Romania plans to buy 32 latest-generation F-35 fighter planes from U.S. manufacturer Lockheed Martin for $6.5 billion, Reuters reported on Tuesday citing the country’s defense ministry.
The defense ministry today requested Parliament to approve the deal, which was approved by Romania’s supreme defence council (CSAT) in April, and authorize the purchasing process to begin this year.
The outline deal includes logistics and training services, flight simulators and ammunition along with the jets, as well as a option for Romania to buy another 16 similar aircraft later.
Final contracts are not likely to be signed before next year, Reuters reported, and Defence Minister Angel Tilvar said this year the first planes would not be delivered before 2030.