Lockheed Martin F-16AM Fighting Falcon (x2)

The Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon is currently the most numerous combat aircraft in NATO. Originally developed for the USAF as a day fighter, the F-16 has evolved into a highly capable multi-role combat aircraft that despite flying for the first time in 1974 is still in production. Over 4,500 F-16s have been produced over the past 49 years and 3,000 of them are still in service with 25 nations around the world. The most recent version is called the Block 70/72 and includes a new cockpit, computers, an advanced AESA radar based on the one installed in the F-35.

Up until 2024, the Romanian Air Force operated a fleet of 17 F-16AM/BMs which were acquired in two batches from surplus stocks of ex-Portuguese Air Force aircraft. These aircraft were all updated to the same MLU standard as those flown by other F-16A/B models operated by European Air Arms. During 2021, Romania signed an agreement to acquire a further 32 F-16s from Norway once they had retired their fleet. The first of which was delivered during early 2024.

As part of our celebration of 50 years of the F-16, the Romanian Air Force will be sending a pair of aircraft to take part in our static display lineup.

Photo Credit: Kevin Willis