Romania adds new F-16 squadron to support NATO Air Policing missions

The 48th Fighter Squadron of the 71st “General Emanoil Ionescu” Air Base in Câmpia Turzii, Romania, began NATO-led Air Policing missions over Romanian airspace on Oct. 20.   

The missions aim to ensure the integrity of Romanian airspace, strengthen the defence of NATO’s eastern flank and underline Romania’s firm commitment to collective security.

The certification of the second F-16 Fighting Falcon squadron marks a significant milestone in Romania’s growing contribution to the Alliance’s integrated air defence system. It reflects the Romanian Air Force’s high level of interoperability and its capability to operate modern defensive assets alongside other Allied Air Forces.

Currently, three fighter squadrons conduct NATO Air Policing missions from Romanian territory. Alongside the 53rd Fighter Squadron from Fetesti and the 48th Fighter Squadron from Câmpia Turzii, a detachment from the German Air Force’s Tactical Air Wing 71 “Richthofen” – operating five Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft – is carrying out Air Policing missions from Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base in Romania.

Romania’s participation in the NATO Air Policing mission highlights the Alliance’s defensive and cohesive posture along the Eastern Flank.