US has approved the sale of AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles to Romania, valued at approximately 70 million dollars.
The acquisition will ensure the equipping of the Romanian Air Force’s F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft.
"The Romanian Air Force's access to state-of-the-art air-to-air capabilities significantly contributes to enhancing the safety of the national and allied airspace and ensures a high degree of interoperability with similar structures of the US Army," stated Defense Minister Angel Tîlvăr.
"This sale is part of a larger and long-term modernization effort that the United States supports for the benefit of the Romanian Air Force. Block II contains the most advanced technology of the AIM-9X Sidewinder missile to date and is currently in service with the US military," announced the US Embassy in Bucharest on Friday morning in a statement sent to SpotMedia.ro.
Charge d'Affaires Michael Dickerson praised this acquisition as another excellent example of the strong security and defense ties between Romania and the United States.
"This acquisition is not just a transaction, it is proof of our common commitment to security and peace. These advanced missiles will ensure the safety of Romanian skies," said the American official sent to Bucharest.
The equipping program also includes the logistic support package, including spare guidance heads, training missiles, personnel training, technical assistance, technical documentation, and transportation services, in order to ensure a complete capability for the Romanian Air Force, explained MoD.
"The United States remain fundamentally committed to strengthening the defense and deterrence posture against any aggression in the Black Sea region. The Romanian Army will continue to act to strengthen the defense and security dimension of the common strategic partnership," added Minister Angel Tîlvăr.