On Friday, the US State Department announced its approval of a $7.2 billion sale of F-35 fighter jets to Romania, a key NATO ally.
The deal, which is pending approval by the US Congress, includes the purchase of 32 F-35A aircraft and related equipment from Lockheed Martin, a leading US aerospace and defense company.
“This proposed sale will advance US foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the security of a NATO Ally that plays a crucial role in promoting political and economic stability in Europe,” the State Department said in a statement.
The announcement coincides with Ukrainian pilots beginning their F-16 training at a specialized center in Romania, as part of US efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses against Russia’s invasion.
Romania, strategically located near Ukraine and the Black Sea, is positioning itself as an international hub for F-16 training. In November 2023, it opened an F-16 training center at its Fetesti air base, with plans to train Ukrainian pilots as well.
On Thursday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Romanian Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu, expressing gratitude for Romania’s delivery of a Patriot missile defense system to Ukraine.
Additionally, on Friday, the State Department approved a $4.1 billion sale of a KC-46A aerial refueling tanker to Japan.
