Romania bolsters defence with £5.2bn F‑35 fighter deal
Purchasing F-35 fighters is one of the most crucial steps in modernising the armed forces in many NATO countries. The authorities in Romania share this perspective and are trying to acquire 32 of these aircraft. What are the F-35's capabilities?
According to Reuters, citing the Romanian Ministry of National Defence, the deal to purchase American F-35 multi-role aircraft will be signed this autumn. This will be another step in the extensive modernisation of the Romanian army. Just in the past few months, Romania has acquired F-16 fighters and plans to procure light tactical armoured vehicles and hundreds of Abrams and K2 Black Panther tanks.
Romania goes for F-35
Information reveals that Romania plans to purchase 32 aircraft manufactured by the American company Lockheed Martin. The deal is valued at £5.2 billion. The F-35 fighters are expected to be inducted into the Romanian armed forces no earlier than 2030. In addition to the fighters themselves, the agreement also includes logistical and training services, flight simulators, and ammunition (air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles).
Ultimately, Romania intends to acquire three squadrons or 48 F-35 fighters. However, the first phase of purchases covers only two squadrons. Until the F-35s arrive, the Romanian air force will rely on F-16 fighters purchased from Portugal (27 units) and Norway (32 units).
What does the F-35 offer?
The F-35 is a fifth-generation multi-role fighter jet that offers a range of advanced technologies useful in air combat and support missions. Produced by Lockheed Martin, the aircraft has become a symbol of the latest achievements in military aviation and the integration of combat systems. Its capabilities include not only eliminating air threats but also supporting ground operations. It uses stealth technology.
The F-35 is over 15 metres long and has a wingspan exceeding 10 metres. The engine allows the pilot to reach speeds of up to Mach 1.6, about 2,200 kilometres per hour. The F-35 has a range of about 2,000 kilometres but has the option for in-flight refuelling. Its standard armament includes a five-barrel GAU-22/A 25mm cannon. Optionally, the F-35 can carry external armaments, including AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles and various bombs.
Last year, the President of Romania announced that F-35s would be added to the armed forces' inventory, emphasising that it is the most frequently chosen new multi-role aircraft among many NATO member states. Poland also decided on its purchase earlier.
