How One Country Secured 18 F-16 Fighter Jets for Just €1
BUCHAREST– Romania has finalized the acquisition of 18 second-hand F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets from the Netherlands at a nominal price of one Euro (€1). This intergovernmental agreement was executed on November 3, 2025, at the Ministry of National Defense in Bucharest.
The aircraft, formerly operated by the Royal Netherlands Air Force, have been stationed at Romania’s 86th Air Base in Fetești (FET) since 2023. They currently serve a critical role in the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC), a collaboration involving Romania, the Netherlands, and Lockheed Martin.
Romania Acquires 18 F-16s for Just €1
Even though the aircraft’s price tag is a mere €1, Romania will incur approximately €21 million in value-added tax (VAT) for operational and logistical support. This deal underscores NATO’s resolve to strengthen its eastern front and enhance pilot training capabilities across Europe.
Discussions about this acquisition were initiated during the NATO Summit in The Hague earlier this year. Romanian Defence Minister Liviu-Ionuț Moșteanu highlighted that both nations agreed to prolong the operation of EFTC.
These aircraft will continue their stationed duties in Fetești, focusing on advanced pilot training. Through the EFTC, pilots from Romania, Ukraine, and other allied nations receive thorough training in F-16 operations, benefitting from:
- Modern simulators
- Standardized NATO procedures
- Instructor support from Lockheed Martin
Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans commented that this transfer exemplifies practical cooperation among NATO partners. He stressed that it extends the operational life of the Dutch aircraft while supporting Romania’s air force and training initiatives for Ukrainian pilots amid rising regional tensions.
Romania’s Expanding F-16 Fleet
This acquisition boosts Romania’s total F-16 fleet to 67 aircraft, which includes previous purchases from Portugal and Norway. The new jets are of the F-16AM/BM variants, enhanced and battle-tested per NATO’s standards.
While primarily intended for training, these jets are also adept at carrying out air policing and tactical missions when necessary. Here’s a breakdown of the main features:
| Feature | F-16AM | F-16BM |
|---|---|---|
| Crew | 1 | 2 |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 19,187 kg | 19,315 kg |
| Engine Thrust | 23,830 lbf | 23,830 lbf |
| Max Speed | Mach 2.0 | Mach 2.0 |
| Combat Radius | 550 km | 450 km |
| Armament | 20 mm cannon + 7,700 kg payload | 20 mm cannon + 7,700 kg payload |
The EFTC is Europe’s first comprehensive facility dedicated to F-16 training, allowing allied nations to align their training under uniform operational standards.
Romanian pilots gain vital experience while Ukrainian pilots transition from older Soviet models like the MiG-29 to Western fighter jets.
This successful training model involves Romania providing the base and support, while the Netherlands offers the aircraft, and Lockheed Martin contributes instructional and maintenance expertise.
The Significance of the €1 Deal
The symbolic price of €1 is not a new concept within NATO’s history. Similar arrangements occurred in the 2000s when Germany transferred MiG-29 fighters to Poland. Such agreements demonstrate solidarity among allies rather than market value.
While modern F-16 Block 70/72 variants can cost around $70 million each, this acquisition offers remarkable value and bolsters Romania’s defense and NATO integration.
For the Netherlands, this transfer allows a quicker retirement of its F-16 fleet as it moves to the F-35A Lightning II. For Romania, it provides immediate access to advanced aircraft for training and operational needs until their own F-35s arrive in the 2030s.
Bolstering Ukraine and NATO
The EFTC’s role has evolved significantly since 2024 when Ukrainian pilots began training on F-16s in Romania.
This center is now pivotal for Western pilot training in Europe, ensuring Ukrainian aviators adhere to NATO standards before receiving their pledged 87 F-16s from nations including Denmark, Norway, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
The cooperative nature of this training model boosts integration among NATO pilots, improving readiness across multiple European air forces. This shared framework facilitates quicker coordination, consistent tactics, and enhanced deterrence along NATO’s eastern fringe.
Looking ahead, Bucharest aims further modernization of its air force. There’s already intent to procure F-35 fighters within the next decade, allowing the F-16 fleet to serve as a bridge until then.
Conclusion
The acquisition of 18 F-16s by Romania for just one Euro goes beyond being a simple transaction. It embodies NATO’s commitment to unity, training, and enhancing regional defense.
This deal solidifies Romania’s position as a key player in European pilot training, boosts readiness among allied forces, and strengthens the defense collaboration between Bucharest and The Hague.
As Romania continues to enhance its air capabilities in preparation for a future transition to advanced aircraft, the legacy of the F-16 will remain a crucial component of NATO’s security framework and the stability of Eastern Europe.
