First Romanian pilots complete training course at European F-16 Center
<p>The first Romanian pilots to graduate from the European F-16 Training Center in Romania were honored&nbsp;during a special ceremony last week. They were the very first class of graduates from the center in Fetești, which <a href="https://www.romania-insider.com/romania-inaugurates-european-training-center-f16-nov-2023" rel="noopener" target="_blank">was inaugurated in November 2023</a>.</p>

<p>“I want to convey my hearty congratulations to the seven Romanian Air Force pilots who have successfully completed a demanding course of instruction over the past 8 months, which included rigorous academics, simulator flights, mission planning, airborne missions and much more,” US ambassador Kathleen Kavalec <a href="https://ro.usembassy.gov/ambassador-kathleen-kavalec-at-f-16-training-center-graduation-ceremony/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">said</a> at the graduation ceremony.</p>

<p>“Throughout this course of instruction, these pilots have learned not only to operate an advanced fighter jet, but how to employ it as a team in formations while executing modern air-to-air and air-to-surface tactics,” she added.</p>

<p>According to Lockheed Martin, which ensures instructors and maintenance at the European F-16 Training Center, new classes started in early July, with the next one beginning in September.</p>

<p>The center has expanded its training fleet to 14 Dutch F-16s, successfully conducting night training missions and executing dissimilar air-to-air training exercises with other NATO air forces, the company also <a href="https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2024-7-26-Lockheed-Martin-Celebrates-Milestone-Graduation-at-European-F-16-Training-Center" rel="noopener" target="_blank">said</a>.</p>

<p>The center is an international hub for F-16 pilot training and facilitates increased interoperability between NATO allies.</p>

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<p><i>irina.marica@romania-insider.com</i></p>

<p><i>(Photo source: Facebook/Ministerul&nbsp;Apărării, by</i><em>&nbsp;Bogdan Pantilimon, Statul Major al Forțelor Aeriene)</em></p>