Romania’s Emergence as a NATO Airpower Hub

The security architecture of Europe’s eastern flank is undergoing a significant transformation, with Romania stepping into a pivotal role as a primary provider of airpower and pilot training. As of late November 2025, we observe a strategic shift that moves beyond simple hardware acquisition to the industrialization of pilot generation. This evolution was solidified on November 3, 2025, when the Netherlands formally transferred ownership of 18 F-16 fighter jets to the Romanian government. These aircraft, previously operating on a loan basis, are now permanent assets dedicated to the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC).

This development represents a critical milestone in the collaboration between the Romanian Ministry of National Defence, the Royal Netherlands Air Force, and Manufacturers. By establishing a permanent regional training hub at the 86th Air Base in Fetești, the alliance is addressing one of the most persistent bottlenecks in modern air combat: the shortage of qualified personnel. The transition of these assets underscores a long-term commitment to securing NATO airspace and ensuring that allied nations have the human capital necessary to operate fourth-generation fighters effectively.

The significance of this program extends beyond Romania’s borders. With the active involvement of Lockheed Martin providing instructors, maintenance, and technical expertise, the facility has operationalized a “training-as-a-service” model. This approach ensures that while governments provide the policy and the airframes, industry experts manage the complex logistics of the training pipeline. We are witnessing a move away from ad-hoc training rotations toward a standardized, high-throughput system designed to meet the urgent demands of the current geopolitical climate.

The European F-16 Training Center (EFTC) in Action

Located at the “Lieutenant Aviator Gheorghe Mociorniță” 86th Air Base, the EFTC has rapidly evolved from a concept to a fully operational “schoolhouse” for NATO allies and partners. The center is designed with a specific capacity goal: to graduate between 30 and 40 pilots annually. This throughput is essential for maintaining combat readiness across the alliance, particularly as nations transition from Soviet-era platforms to NATO-standard Military-Aircraft.

Solidifying the Asset Base

The formal transfer of the 18 Dutch F-16s in November 2025 was a decisive moment for the center’s longevity. While reports indicate the transfer was executed for a symbolic price, cited as €1 in defense circles, the strategic value is immense. These aircraft are strictly designated for training purposes, separating them from Romania’s operational combat fleet. This separation of duties allows for uninterrupted training cycles, ensuring that the pilot pipeline does not compete with combat squadrons for flight hours or airframes.

Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans has highlighted the efficacy of this arrangement, noting that the collaboration serves as a “textbook example” of how nations and industry can integrate their strengths. By securing these aircraft permanently, Romania guarantees the stability of the curriculum, allowing student pilots to fly live missions that mirror real-world NATO operations alongside advanced simulation training provided by Lockheed Martin.

“The EFTC has turned our country into a European hub for all nations that fly the F-16… By continuing the center’s activity, Romania strengthens its role in NATO and contributes to the defense and security of allied nations.”, Liviu-Ionuț Moșteanu, Romanian Minister of National Defence

Impact on Regional Security and Ukraine

The operational impact of the EFTC is already being felt on the front lines. A cohort of 14 Ukrainian pilots began their training at the center in September 2024. By late 2025, officials confirmed that graduates from this program were actively participating in combat operations. The ability to train Ukrainian pilots in a neighboring NATO country reduces logistical burdens and accelerates the timeline from training to deployment.

Minister Brekelmans confirmed the immediate results of this initiative, stating that Ukrainian pilots trained at the facility are “already making a significant contribution to defending their country against Russian air attacks.” This validates the center’s curriculum and the effectiveness of the multinational support structure. It demonstrates that the pipeline is not merely theoretical but is producing combat-capable aviators under urgent timelines.

Modernizing the Fleet: A Broader Context

To fully understand the importance of the Training center, we must look at the broader context of Romania’s fleet modernization. The country is in the process of replacing its legacy MiG-21s with a robust fleet of approximately 67 F-16 aircraft sourced from multiple allies. This acquisition strategy creates a tiered system of operational readiness and training capacity.

The Composition of Airpower

Romania’s acquisition pipeline is diverse. The operational squadrons are bolstered by 17 aircraft previously delivered by Portugal between 2016 and 2021. Furthermore, a significant contract with Norway involves the Delivery of 32 aircraft. As of late 2025, approximately 21 of these Norwegian jets have been delivered, with the remaining 11 expected by the year’s end. These aircraft form the backbone of Romania’s defensive posture.

The 18 Dutch jets transferred to the EFTC complement this combat fleet by ensuring there is no gap in human resources. Without a dedicated domestic training solution, Romania and its allies would be forced to rely on foreign training slots, which are often scarce and expensive. By internalizing this capability, Romania secures its autonomy and strengthens its value proposition within the NATO alliance.

“A textbook example of successful cooperation… together with Romania and Lockheed Martin, we are working in a unique way to train Romanian and Ukrainian pilots.”, Ruben Brekelmans, Dutch Defence Minister

Conclusion

The developments in late 2025 signal a maturity in Romania’s defense strategy. By hosting the EFTC and securing the permanent ownership of training assets, Romania has effectively transformed from a consumer of security to a regional provider. The collaboration with the Netherlands and Lockheed Martin has created a sustainable ecosystem that addresses the most critical aspect of airpower: the pilot. As the center reaches its full capacity of graduating 30 to 40 pilots per year, its influence on the security of the Eastern Flank will only grow.

Looking ahead, the success of the EFTC may serve as a blueprint for future defense collaborations in Europe. The integration of government assets with private industry expertise to solve logistical and training challenges offers a viable path for other NATO nations facing similar modernization hurdles. With a steady pipeline of pilots and a growing fleet of F-16s, the alliance is better positioned to deter aggression and maintain air superiority in the region.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC)?
The EFTC serves as a regional hub for training NATO and partner nation pilots. Located in Europe, it combines live flight training with simulation to graduate 30 to 40 F-16 pilots annually.

How many aircraft does Romania have for this program?
On November 3, 2025, the Netherlands formally transferred 18 F-16 jets to Romania specifically for use at the training center. These are separate from Romania’s combat fleet.

Is the center training Ukrainian pilots?
Yes. A cohort of 14 Ukrainian pilots began training in September 2024. Officials have confirmed that graduates from the center are already engaged in defensive operations in Ukraine.

Who are the key partners involved in the EFTC?
The center is a collaboration between the Romanian Ministry of National Defence (host), the Royal Netherlands Air Force (aircraft provider), and Lockheed Martin (instructors and technical support).

Sources

• Lockheed Martin

ATAC Secures $200 Million Contract to Enhance U.S. Navy Electronic Warfare Training

We are witnessing a significant development in the realm of naval defense training as the Airborne Tactical Advantage Company (ATAC), a subsidiary of Manufacturers, has been awarded a substantial contract by the United States Navy. This Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, valued at up to $200 million, tasks ATAC with providing Stand-Off Jammer (SOJ) services over the next five years. This agreement underscores the growing importance of electronic warfare (EW) in modern combat scenarios and the Navy’s commitment to preparing its fleets for high-tech adversarial environments.

The contract, which covers the period from 2025 to 2030, is designed to simulate realistic electronic attack scenarios. By utilizing private contractors for these specialized services, the Navy can preserve the flight hours of its own active-duty combat assets, such as the EA-18G Growler, for real-world operations. This “Train as You Fight” strategy ensures that naval crews are exposed to sophisticated threats during exercises without depleting the service’s operational readiness or budget on internal resources.

In our analysis of this procurement, it becomes clear that the scope of the mission extends beyond simple target practice. The objective is to test and evaluate shipboard and Military-Aircraft squadron weapon systems, operators, and aircrew against a backdrop of intense electronic interference. As the maritime domain becomes increasingly contested by peer adversaries with advanced EW capabilities, the ability to operate in a degraded electromagnetic environment is no longer optional, it is a critical survival skill.

Defining the Mission: Stand-Off Jamming Services

The core of this contract revolves around “Stand-Off Jamming,” a mission profile that differs significantly from traditional aerial dogfighting. In this context, the aircraft operates at a safe distance, or “stands off”, from the target area while projecting powerful electronic signals. These signals are designed to blind enemy radars, disrupt communications, and create a chaotic environment for the trainees. We understand that the primary goal is to force Navy operators to adapt when their sensors are compromised and their communication lines are jammed.

Under the terms of the agreement, ATAC will provide these services using highly modified Private-Jets equipped for electronic warfare. These aircraft will be stationed on both the East and West Coasts of the United States to support fleet exercises in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. The mission scope includes Electronic Attack (EA), where radar frequencies are jammed, and Communications Intrusion, where false or disruptive signals are interjected into friendly radio networks. This forces crews to practice strict radio discipline and verify the integrity of their command-and-control networks.

Furthermore, these operations often involve “Own Force Monitoring” (OFM). In this capacity, the contractor aircraft listens to friendly communications to critique security protocols. This feedback loop is vital for training crews to recognize when they are being monitored or when their communications are leaking sensitive information. By integrating these complex electronic layers into training exercises, the Navy ensures that its sailors and aviators are not only proficient in kinetic warfare but are also resilient against the invisible threats of the electromagnetic spectrum.

“The goal is to test and evaluate shipboard and aircraft squadron weapon systems, operators, and aircrew in countering potential enemy stand-off jamming.”

Distinguishing the Fleet: Business Jets vs. Fighter Jets

There is often confusion regarding the various air services ATAC provides, particularly given their extensive fleet of fighter aircraft. It is crucial to distinguish the hardware utilized for this Stand-Off Jammer (SOJ) contract from the aircraft used in the separate Fleet Fighter Jet Services (FJS) contract. While ATAC is renowned for operating fighter jets like the Hawker Hunter Mk-58, Mirage F1, and F-21 Kfir, those platforms are primarily tasked with aerial dogfighting, target towing, and missile simulation.

For the SOJ mission, the requirements are fundamentally different. Fighter jets generally lack the internal volume and fuel endurance required for long-duration jamming sessions. Consequently, this contract utilizes “Type VI” aircraft, specifically, modified business jets. These platforms offer the necessary loiter time to remain on station for extended periods, ensuring that training exercises are not interrupted by frequent refueling needs. Additionally, the larger cabin space of a business jet accommodates the heavy, sophisticated electronic jamming consoles and the specialized Electronic Warfare Officers (EWOs) required to operate them.

We see this differentiation as a strategic allocation of resources. By using business jets for jamming and fighter jets for kinetic simulation, ATAC creates a layered threat environment. In complex exercises, Navy pilots may find themselves fighting off “bandit” fighter jets while simultaneously dealing with the crippling effects of stand-off jamming from a distant business jet. This multi-axis threat simulation provides the most realistic approximation of modern warfare, where physical and electronic attacks occur simultaneously.

Strategic Context and Industry Implications

The awarding of this contract to ATAC, a Textron Systems subsidiary, highlights the reliance of the U.S. military on the commercial defense sector to bridge training gaps. Textron Systems leverages its deep aviation expertise, owning iconic brands like Cessna and Beechcraft, to support these specialized missions. While the specific model of the business jet for this new contract was not explicitly named in the release, such missions typically utilize robust platforms capable of carrying external pods and internal mission systems, similar to the Learjet or Gulfstream series often adapted for special missions.

From a geopolitical standpoint, this investment is driven by the rising capabilities of peer threats. Nations such as China and Russia have invested heavily in Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) strategies, which rely heavily on electronic warfare to deny U.S. forces the ability to navigate and communicate. By simulating these degraded environments now, the Navy is proactively addressing a vulnerability that could be decisive in a future conflict. The $200 million investment over five years signals that the Department of Defense views EW readiness as a high priority.

Looking ahead, we anticipate that the demand for Contracted Air Services (CAS) will continue to grow. As military aircraft become more expensive to operate per flight hour, the economic logic of outsourcing “Red Air” and electronic adversary roles becomes undeniable. This contract solidifies ATAC’s position as a key partner in naval readiness and sets the stage for further integration of private sector innovation into military training doctrines.

Conclusion

The $200 million contract awarded to ATAC for Stand-Off Jammer services represents a critical component of the U.S. Navy’s readiness strategy for the next half-decade. By securing these services through 2030, the Navy ensures that its fleets are consistently tested against the rigorous demands of electronic warfare. The use of modified business jets to simulate high-tech jamming provides a cost-effective, high-endurance solution that complements the kinetic training provided by other platforms.

As the global security landscape evolves, the ability to fight and win in the electromagnetic spectrum will likely determine the outcome of future engagements. This partnership between the Navy and Textron Systems reflects a broader trend of integrating commercial efficiency with military necessity, ensuring that when U.S. forces deploy, they are prepared for the invisible war as well as the visible one.

FAQ

Question: What is the value and duration of the new ATAC contract?
Answer: The contract is an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) award valued at up to $200 million, covering a five-year period from 2025 to 2030.

Question: What type of aircraft will be used for this specific contract?
Answer: Unlike ATAC’s fighter jet contracts, this mission utilizes highly modified business jets (Type VI aircraft) equipped for electronic warfare, chosen for their endurance and capacity to carry jamming equipment.

Question: What is Stand-Off Jamming?
Answer: Stand-Off Jamming involves an aircraft flying at a safe distance from a target area while transmitting electronic signals to blind enemy Radar-Systems, disrupt communications, and confuse sensor systems.

Sources

• Textron Systems Press Release

A New Era for Swedish Aviation: The Jet-Powered UAV Demonstrator

In a significant development for European defense technology, GKN Aerospace has officially announced a collaboration with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to develop a new jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). This project, underpinned by a contract valued at £12 million (approximately US$16 million), marks a pivotal step in Sweden’s efforts to modernize its air defense capabilities. The initiative is designed to produce a functional demonstrator within an aggressive 18-month timeline, highlighting the urgency and strategic importance placed on autonomous systems by the Swedish Armed Forces.

The primary objective of this program is to design, build, and flight-test a platform that is both low-cost and flexible. By focusing on a demonstrator rather than an immediate production model, the collaboration aims to serve as a testbed for future technologies. This approach allows for the rapid evaluation of new propulsion systems, autonomous flight capabilities, and advanced aerostructures without the financial risks associated with full-scale fighter jet development. The project represents a shift from theoretical analysis to practical hardware application, providing tangible data to inform Sweden’s long-term defense strategies.

This agreement is closely aligned with Sweden’s broader “Future Fighter System” (KFS) analysis. As nations globally assess the requirements for 6th-generation air combat, Sweden is exploring a “system of systems” approach. This strategy potentially integrates manned aircraft, such as the Gripen E, with unmanned “loyal wingmen” or autonomous support units. The GKN Aerospace demonstrator is a critical component of this exploration, serving to validate whether a domestic, cost-effective unmanned platform can effectively operate alongside traditional manned fighters.

Leveraging Cross-Border Technical Expertise

The technical execution of this project leverages the dual strengths of GKN Aerospace’s European network, specifically utilizing facilities in Sweden and the Netherlands. The propulsion system, a critical element of the jet-powered UAV, is being developed at GKN’s facility in Trollhättan, Sweden. Historically known as Volvo Aero, this division possesses decades of experience in military propulsion, having supported the RM12 and RM16 engines for the Gripen fighter family. For this demonstrator, the focus is on a turbojet solution that balances performance with the economic constraints required for an expendable or “attritable” platform.

Simultaneously, the airframe design and manufacturing are being undertaken by GKN Fokker in the Netherlands. Acquired by GKN in 2015, the Fokker division is recognized globally for its expertise in lightweight thermoplastic aerostructures and advanced wiring systems. The use of lightweight materials is essential for the UAV’s agility and fuel efficiency, while the modular design ensures the platform remains flexible for various mission profiles. This collaboration highlights a unique synergy where a Tier 1 supplier acts as the lead system integrator, bridging the gap between engine manufacturing and airframe construction.

The integration of these distinct technologies, Swedish propulsion and Dutch aerostructures, demonstrates a sovereign European capability. By keeping the development within established European defense networks, the project mitigates reliance on external suppliers for critical subsystems. This is particularly relevant for the “low-cost” mandate of the project; achieving a price point that allows for mass production requires tight control over the supply chain and manufacturing processes, which this cross-border partnership aims to secure.

“This program is a great example of how we can work closely with the FMV to rapidly explore new capabilities that are both innovative and cost-effective. It reflects our shared commitment to strengthening Sweden’s defence readiness and technological edge.” — Stefan Oscarsson, VP of Governmental Solutions at GKN Aerospace.

Strategic Implications: The “Loyal Wingman” Concept

The strategic context of this demonstrator extends beyond simple hardware testing; it addresses the evolving nature of aerial warfare. Modern air forces are increasingly looking toward “mass”, the ability to deploy a high volume of assets, to overwhelm adversaries or protect high-value manned aircraft. The concept of a “Loyal Wingman” involves unmanned drones flying in coordination with piloted fighters, acting as sensors, decoys, or weapons carriers. This £12 million investment serves as a “pathfinder” to determine if Sweden can domestically produce such assets at a cost that makes them expendable in high-intensity conflicts.

Unlike other European nations that have committed to multinational 6th-generation fighter programs like GCAP (UK, Italy, Japan) or FCAS (France, Germany, Spain), Sweden has maintained a more independent trajectory through its KFS study. By investing in this demonstrator, Sweden is gathering empirical data to decide if its future air force should rely on a new manned fighter or a mix of upgraded Gripen jets supported by these unmanned systems. The flexibility of the proposed UAV platform suggests it could be adapted for electronic warfare or surveillance, further enhancing the operational versatility of the Swedish Air Force.

Furthermore, the project underscores the changing role of defense contractors. GKN Aerospace’s elevation to a lead system integrator for a complete aircraft system signifies a maturation of the supply base. It suggests that future defense acquisitions may move away from monolithic programs led solely by traditional aircraft manufacturers, towards more agile, specialized collaborations capable of delivering specific capabilities, like jet-powered drones, on shorter timelines and smaller budgets.

Conclusion

The collaboration between GKN Aerospace and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration represents a pragmatic step toward the future of Swedish air power. By committing to an 18-month timeline to design, build, and fly a jet-powered UAV, the partners are prioritizing speed and innovation over theoretical studies. This project will provide the essential data needed to validate the “system of systems” approach, potentially reshaping how Sweden defends its airspace in the coming decades.

Ultimately, the success of this demonstrator could pave the way for a new class of Swedish defense exports and operational capabilities. If the platform proves to be both capable and cost-effective, it establishes a foundation for a fleet of autonomous systems that complement the manned Gripen fighters, ensuring that Sweden retains a technologically advanced and sovereign defense posture in an increasingly complex global security environment.

FAQ

Question: What is the value of the contract awarded to GKN Aerospace?
Answer: The contract awarded by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) is valued at £12 million (approximately US$16 million).

Question: What is the timeline for the project?
Answer: The program is scheduled to run for 18 months, during which the team will design, build, and fly the UAV demonstrator.

Question: Where will the UAV be built?
Answer: The project is a cross-border collaboration; the engine and program leadership are based in Trollhättan, Sweden, while the airframe design and manufacturing are handled by GKN Fokker in the Netherlands.

Sources

• GKN Aerospace