Romania Acquires 18 Former Dutch F-16 Fighters for One Euro
The formal transfer of 18 former Dutch F-16 fighter jets to Romania has been finalized for the symbolic price of one Euro (about $1.15). These jets are now operated by the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC) in Romania, where they train Romanian and Ukrainian pilots in flying the Viper.
Details of the Transfer
The transfer documents were signed in Bucharest by Brigadier Ion-Cornel Pleșa, chief of the Romanian general armament directorate, and Linda Ruseler from the Dutch Ministry of Finance. Alongside the nominal purchase price, Romania paid a VAT fee of 21 million Euros (approximately $24 million) based on the declared value of the aircraft and logistics support package.
Historical Context
This deal echoes a similar 2002 arrangement when Germany transferred 22 MiG-29 Fulcrum fighters to Poland for one Euro per plane, underscoring a strategic pattern of symbolic sales in military equipment transfers within Europe.
Role of the Jets in Training
The former Dutch F-16s play a crucial role in training Ukrainian Air Force pilots, enhancing their capabilities with the Viper aircraft through the EFTC’s programs in Romania.
“I expressed my interest in this acquisition back in June, at the end of the NATO Summit in The Hague, when I signed, together with my Dutch counterpart, the Memorandum of Understanding on the extension of the functioning of the European F-16 Training Center in Romania,” said Romania’s Minister of Defense Liviu-Ionuț Moșteanu.
Ongoing Military Cooperation
The extension of the EFTC's operations in Romania highlights growing cooperation within NATO to strengthen the air capabilities of allied and partner countries, notably supporting Ukraine in its defense efforts.
Summary: Romania’s symbolic purchase of 18 Dutch F-16 jets for one Euro, alongside a VAT payment, reinforces NATO training efforts by enhancing pilot skills for both Romanian and Ukrainian air forces through the European F-16 Training Center.