Thursday, at Victoria Palace in Bucharest, the signing ceremony of the Protocol for the transition program of the Romanian Air Forces to F-35 aircraft – fifth-generation aircraft, took place.
The document was signed by the Romanian Minister of Defense, Angel Tîlvăr, and the US Ambassador to Bucharest, Kathleen Kavalec.
The acquisition of F-35 aircraft represents the largest contract that the Romanian Government through the Ministry of National Defense has signed post-Revolution, says Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who was present at the event.
"From my point of view, this is the most important contract signed by Romania post-Revolution, towards equipping the Romanian Army and ensuring national defense security," Marcel Ciolacu further stated.
"Today, Romania takes an important step in strengthening its security and enhancing international partnerships (...) We thus mark an essential stage in the modernization process of the Romanian Armed Forces. (...) The signing of this agreement represents an important step in equipping the Romanian Armed Forces to be able to face global challenges, because, unfortunately, the current geopolitical situation demonstrates the heightened need for credible deterrence and defense capabilities, both at the allied and national levels," Ciolacu affirmed.
He emphasized that the F-35 aircraft, with their cutting-edge technology, will significantly enhance the country's defense capability.
"They will ensure not only access to an advanced technological system but also improved interoperability with our NATO allies. These aircraft represent the pinnacle of aviation technology and will play a central role in our defense strategy. They will become a symbol of air power and our rapid response capability to any threats," the Prime Minister added.
For this acquisition, last week, at the Government's proposal, the Parliament approved a specific law, a legal act that will allow the optimal conduct of the acquisition of F-35 equipment and specific services, pilot training, and technical-engineering personnel.
"By integrating these aircraft into the Romanian Armed Forces, Romania will stimulate the development of the defense sector and support the creation of jobs in key areas of the defense and technology industry," highlighted Ciolacu.