The Romanian Ministry of National Defence (MApN) has submitted to parliament a request for approval to purchase an initial 32 US based Lockheed Martin F-35 Fighters, as per a report by Antena 3 CNN.
This initial package, which would equip two squadrons, is worth USD 6.5 Billion (EUR 5.9 Bn).
And, it would include engines, logistic support, training services, flight simulators, air-to-air munitions and air-to-ground munitions, according to the request.
Further, it would be followed by the subsequent purchase of 16 more fifth-generation F-35 aircraft to equip a third squadron.
It is anticipated that Romania would receive its first F-35 combat aircraft in 2032, however this will be only be possible only if this procurement contact gets finalized with United Sates (US) next year.
Noteworthy, that following the retirement of its MiG-21 LanceR fleet on 15 May this year, the Romanian Air Force currently operates 17 refurbished ex-Portuguese F-16AM/BMs that were acquired between October 2016 and March 2021.
About F-35 Fighters
General characteristics
Crew: 1
Length: 51.4 ft (15.7 m)
Wingspan: 35 ft (11 m)
Height: 14.4 ft (4.4 m)
Wing area: 460 sq ft (43 m2)
Aspect ratio: 2.66
Empty weight: 29,300 lb (13,290 kg)
Gross weight: 49,540 lb (22,471 kg)
Max takeoff weight: 65,918 lb (29,900 kg) [462]
Fuel capacity: 18,250 lb (8,278 kg) internal
Powerplant: 1 × Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 afterburning turbofan, 28,000 lbf (125 kN) thrust dry, 43,000 lbf (191 kN) with afterburner
