Seven Romanian pilots have recently completed their training at the Fetești Training Centre, becoming the first F-16 pilots trained in the nation since the center was opened. The graduation ceremony took place at the Borcea Air Base, where the pilots received their “mission ready” designation. The pilots underwent rigorous training, including theory classes, simulator training, and solo flights simulating combat operations. With over 200 hours of theoretical training, 500 hours of simulator training, and 400 hours of flying, the pilots are now fully prepared for all types of missions.
One of the pilots, known as ‘Hollywood’, had previously trained on MiG-21 LanceR aircraft and needed training to transition to the F-16. He described the transition as challenging but successful, attributing their ease to their prior experience flying to NATO standards on the MiG-21. The pilots were trained by instructors contracted by Lockheed Martin, the company that produces the F-16 aircraft. They simulated combat with F-18 Hornets and Typhoon aircraft, preparing them to protect Romania’s sovereignty and be valuable NATO partners.
Romania now has a squadron of F-16 fighter jets to carry out Air Police missions and respond to threats in the airspace. These planes were recently used for surveillance during Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian ports on the Danube. The F-16 jets have a combat range of over 500 kilometres and remain on alert to combat any threats. The establishment of the European Training Center in Romania will streamline pilot training, making it faster and more efficient. The center, funded by the Netherlands Air Force, is equipped with 14 F-16 aircraft for training purposes.
The Fetești Training Centre can train pilots looking to advance to the next level in their careers or military personnel who have never flown fighter planes. The center’s goal is to provide top-notch training for pilots, ensuring they are well-prepared for any mission. With hundreds of F-16 jets operating in Europe, the aircraft remains critical for NATO militaries in carrying out joint defense missions and protecting airspace. Lockheed Martin’s Chief Operating Officer, Frank St. John, has acknowledged the importance of the F-16 in supporting NATO’s objectives and ensuring the safety of European airspace.
Overall, the completion of the training program at the Fetești Training Centre marks a significant milestone for Romania as the nation now has its first group of F-16 pilots ready to operate the aircraft in their assigned squadrons. The rigorous training and dedication of the Romanian pilots highlight their commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and contributing to NATO missions. The partnership with Lockheed Martin and the Netherlands Air Force has been instrumental in providing high-quality training and resources for the pilots, enabling them to excel in their roles. Romania’s investment in F-16 aircraft and training facilities underscores its commitment to modernizing its military capabilities and enhancing its defense capabilities.
