Romania and the United States signed today a protocol to launch the the transition program of the Romanian Air Force to fifth-generation F-35 aircraft, reports Digi 24 TV, quoted by BTA.
Romania will buy through this program 32 F-35 fighter jets, considered the most advanced in the world, along with related equipment, the TV noted.
The law giving the green light to this purchase was promulgated by President Klaus Iohannis less than a week ago.
The document was signed today by Defense Minister Angel Talvar and US Ambassador to Bucharest Kathleen Kavalek. In the signing ceremony at the government palace "Victoria" Prime Minister Marcel Cholaku also participated.
"Today, Romania is taking an important step to strengthen its security and strengthen international partnerships, signing together with the US government the agreement for the purchase of F-35 aircraft. We mark in this way an important stage in the process of modernization of the armed forces of Romania and underline our firm commitment to NATO and to the values we share with the US: democracy, freedom and security," Çolacu pointed out.
He emphasized that, in his opinion, the purchase of the F-35 jets represents the most important contract signed by Romania since the 1989 Revolution. in terms of equipping the Romanian army and ensuring national security.
The American ambassador in Bucharest, Kathleen Kavalek, for her part, pointed out that Romania's decision to buy the F-35 fighter jets represents an "important step" in the ongoing modernization of Romania's armed forces and will contribute "significantly" for NATO's long-term defense and collective security. She added that the US congratulates Romania on its commitment to allocate up to 2.5 percent of GDP to defense spending.
Defense Minister Angel Talvar reminded that the F-35 aircraft represent "the highest achievement in aviation in the world at the moment and will ensure interoperability with NATO allies" and that the transition to fifth-generation aircraft is an important step for the country's air force.
"F-35 aircraft are distinguished by stealth technology, advanced sensor and communication systems, unmatched speed and maneuverability, which makes them important for modern military operations,", Talvar emphasized.
The bill to purchase 32 US fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets, considered the most advanced in the world, was passed by parliament on November 13 and promulgated by the president on November 15.