In an interview with the Romanian newspaper Antena 3 on August 10, 2023, the Romanian Minister of Defense, Angel Tîlvăr, announced that the ministry had sought parliamentary approval for the acquisition of 32 F-35 Lightning II multirole fighter jets. This initiative aims to significantly enhance the country’s aerial capabilities and fully embrace its strategic role on NATO’s eastern flank.
Romania plans acquisition of 32 F 35 Lightning II Jets in 6.5 Billion Deal 925 003 F-35 Lightning II, this advanced fighter jet is renowned for its advanced stealth, versatility, and ability to operate in diverse environments and missions.
The acquisition project is estimated to be around $6.5 billion and follows the authorization granted by Romania’s Supreme Council for National Defense on April 11. According to documents presented to the Romanian parliament, the plan entails purchasing two squadrons comprising a total of 32 fighter jets. Additionally, Romania might consider acquiring a third squadron consisting of 16 fighter jets, further bolstering its air power.
Romania would thus become the third Eastern European country to incorporate the F-35 Lightning II into its fleet, joining Poland and the Czech Republic in utilizing Lockheed Martin’s fifth-generation aircraft. To date, the F-35 operates from 21 bases worldwide, with nine nations operating F-35s on their home soil. There are more than 655 F-35s in service today, with more than 1,380 pilots and 10,670 maintainers trained on the aircraft.