Romania and Netherlands Strengthen Defense Cooperation, Support Pilot Training
Romanian Defense Minister Angel Tilvăr announced plans to enhance the training of allied and partner state pilots at Romania's advanced F-16 Training Centre, which operates with 18 F-16 aircraft provided by the Netherlands, CE Report quotes Agerpres
“This demonstrates that defense investments are crucial for the security of the Black Sea region,” Tilvăr shared on Facebook. He highlighted the collaboration between Romania, the Netherlands, and Lockheed Martin as a key effort to bolster defense capabilities.
Over a year since the F-16 Centre became operational, Tilvăr noted significant progress, with both Romanian and Ukrainian pilots benefiting from advanced training programs. He pledged to expand these activities to enhance the security of Romania’s Air Force and its allies.
During an official visit to The Hague, Tilvăr met with Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans to discuss deepening bilateral defense ties, coordinating NATO and EU efforts, and preparing for the NATO Summit in The Hague next year.
Key topics included support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression and addressing hybrid threats to European security. Tilvăr emphasized the importance of strengthening resilience and international cooperation to counter these challenges.