Seven Romanian pilots recently graduated from the Fetești Training Centre, becoming the first US-made fighter jet pilots trained in the nation since the centre became operational. The pilots completed their courses and received their “mission ready” designation, allowing them to operate the F-16 aircraft in their assigned squadrons. The graduation ceremony took place at the Borcea Air Base, where F-16 demonstration flights were organized. The pilots underwent extensive training, including theory classes, simulator training, and solo flights simulating combat operations. Their training covered both air-to-air and air-to-ground flight tactics, preparing them for various missions.
One of the graduates, known as “Hollywood,” had been operating Mig-21 aircraft for seven years before transitioning to the F-16. He found the transition challenging but ultimately successful, as the training center had prepared them well to meet NATO standards. The pilots accumulated over 200 hours of theoretical training, 500 hours of simulator training, and 400 hours of flying, making them fully prepared for their roles as F-16 pilots. The training emphasized the use of team intelligence in executing advanced flight tactics, ensuring that the pilots are well-equipped to protect Romania’s sovereignty and support NATO missions. The instructors, contracted by Lockheed Martin, praised the pilots for completing the most difficult program required of military airmen.
Romania now has a squadron of F-16 fighter jets that are used for air police missions and surveillance during security threats. The jets have a combat range of over 500 kilometers and are constantly on alert to defend the country’s airspace. Recently, nine second-hand F-16 aircraft were delivered to Romania, with more expected to arrive in the coming months. The establishment of the European Training Centre in Romania has made pilot training more efficient and accessible, allowing pilots to train locally instead of going abroad. With hundreds of F-16 jets operating in Europe, the aircraft remains a crucial component of NATO militaries, supporting joint defense missions and ensuring airspace protection.
The training centre in Fetești has the capacity to train F-16 pilots who are looking to advance their skills or military personnel who have never flown fighter planes before. The centre received 14 F-16 aircraft from the Netherlands Air Force for training purposes, enabling pilots to gain hands-on experience with the aircraft. The pilots trained at the centre have quickly adapted to the advanced fighter jet, developing the necessary skills to operate the aircraft effectively. The US Ambassador to Romania praised the pilots for their dedication and highlighted the importance of training in team intelligence to carry out modern air-to-air and air-to-ground flight tactics.
The F-16 jets have proven to be a vital asset for Romania’s military, assisting in air police missions and providing surveillance during security threats. The pilots trained at the Fetești Training Centre have undergone rigorous training to become proficient in operating the F-16 aircraft. With the support of the training centre, Romania is better equipped to defend its airspace and contribute to NATO missions. The pilots’ graduation marks a significant milestone in Romania’s military aviation capabilities, as they are now fully prepared to protect the country’s sovereignty and serve as valuable NATO partners. The F-16 jets remain a beacon of NATO militaries, playing a crucial role in joint defense missions and ensuring the protection of European airspace.
