The United States has taken a significant step in bolstering its NATO alliance, approving a $7.2 billion sale of F-35 fighter jets to Romania. This move signals a continued commitment to strengthening security in the region, especially in the face of ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The contract, which still requires approval from the US Congress, will see Romania acquire 32 F-35A aircraft, along with related equipment, manufactured by Lockheed Martin. The State Department emphasized the strategic importance of the deal, stating that it will “improve the security of a NATO Ally that is an important force for political and economic stability in Europe.”
This announcement comes at a time when Ukrainian pilots are undergoing training on F-16s, US-made fighter jets authorized by Washington for Kyiv to use in its defense against Russia’s invasion. Romania, strategically positioned at the gateway to Ukraine and the Black Sea, has emerged as a vital hub for F-16 training. In November 2023, Romania inaugurated an F-16 training center at its Fetesti air base, explicitly stating its commitment to training Ukrainian pilots.
Further highlighting the strong US-Romania partnership, Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with his Romanian counterpart Luminita Odobescu on Thursday, expressing gratitude for Romania’s provision of a Patriot missile defense system to Ukraine. In addition to the F-35 sale, the State Department also approved a $4.1 billion sale of a KC-46A aerial refueling tanker to Japan on Friday. These moves solidify the US’s commitment to supporting its allies globally.
