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Romania has finalized the acquisition of 18 F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft from the Netherlands to be used at the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC) in Fetesti, designed to train both NATO and Ukrainian pilots.

The jets were formally transferred from the Netherlands to Romania at a symbolic price of just one Euro (approximately $1.15). However, that price tag included a Value-Added Tax (VAT) payment of 21 million Euros ($24.2 million) for the aircraft and the logistics support package.

Romanian Minister of Defense Liviu-Ionut Mosteanu confirmed the signing of the contract with the Dutch government, describing it as a milestone in regional military training.

“This is an important step for the development of the European F-16 Training Center in Fetesti, which has become a regional center for training NATO pilots and partners,” said Mosteanu during the ceremony.

The deal, which also includes related equipment, aims to strengthen Romania’s role in supporting NATO operations and Ukraine’s defense capabilities. Government statements clarified that the aircraft will be used solely for training, with designated slots for Ukrainian pilots as part of ongoing joint initiatives between allies.

“This is a prudent investment in training, cooperation, and the future. This project reflects the trust of our Dutch partners and the recognition of the professionalism of the Romanian Air Force.” Mosteanu added, expressing gratitude to the technical and procurement teams involved in the signing.

The Netherlands’ transfer marks the culmination of a series of deliveries that began in late 2023. The final two F-16s were delivered to Romania in November 2024, but remained under Dutch ownership until the signing of this week’s agreement. These aircraft were previously in service with the Royal Netherlands Air Force, which has since transitioned to the F-35 Lightning II.

With this agreement, Romania now possesses a fully operational training fleet, complementing its existing air defense systems and bolstering NATO’s collective airpower in the region.

Joint Training and Regional Cooperation

The Netherlands officially transferred ownership of the aircraft in Bucharest. The signing documents were exchanged between Romanian Defense Minister Ionut Mosteanu and Linda Ruseler, Director of Movable Property at the Dutch Ministry of Finance.

The newly transferred F-16s are stationed at the EFTC, a joint initiative supported by Romania, the Netherlands, and Lockheed Martin, the original manufacturer of the F-16.

The training center, operational since November 2023, currently hosts five Dutch F-16s and provides a platform for Romanian and Ukrainian pilots to train under NATO standards.

Romania, a NATO ally located on the alliance’s eastern flank, began operating its own F-16s in recent years and continues to expand its training capabilities to strengthen air defense across Eastern Europe.

Dutch Contribution

Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans praised the collaboration as a model of international cooperation.

“The training center is a textbook example of successful collaboration. Together with Romania and Lockheed Martin, we are working in a unique way to train Romanian and Ukrainian pilots. It is wonderful that our former F-16s have gained a valuable new life at the EFTC.”
said Brekelmans.

He further emphasized that Ukrainian pilots trained in Romania have already made significant contributions to defending their country against Russian air assaults.

“The Ukrainian pilots trained here are already playing a key role in protecting their nation from the terrible Russian air attacks,” Brekelmans added.

Integration into NATO’s Eastern Defense

Romania’s expanding role in NATO’s regional defense strategy comes at a time of heightened security concerns in Europe. The EFTC not only supports Romanian and Ukrainian pilots but also symbolizes a coordinated response to emerging threats in the region.

Since September 2024, Ukrainian pilots have been undergoing flight and simulation training at the center, preparing to operate the F-16s delivered to Kyiv earlier this year. The Netherlands has donated 24 F-16s to Ukraine, which are already being deployed in defense against Russian airstrikes.

The newly acquired 18 jets, though dedicated to training, are expected to enhance interoperability among NATO members and improve collective readiness in Eastern Europe. Romanian officials described the initiative as both a strategic investment and a diplomatic success, highlighting the nation’s growing importance within the alliance.

Future Plans and Strategic Outlook

According to the Romanian Ministry of Defense, the Fetesti training center will continue to expand in capacity and capability. Future phases include additional simulator facilities, advanced maintenance infrastructure, and potential inclusion of other NATO partner nations. The center could eventually become the main European hub for F-16 training, accommodating pilots from across the continent.

“Romania continues to invest in defense, strong partnerships, and well-trained personnel,” said Minister Moșteanu, underlining the country’s ongoing commitment to NATO modernization goals.

Defense analysts view this development as part of a broader NATO strategy to build resilience on the alliance’s eastern border, especially amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.