Romanian F-16 Block 15 fighters to be modernized.

On November 3, the U.S. State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Romania of F-16 Modernization and Logistics Support and related equipment for an estimated cost of $175.4 million. The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale.

Follow Air Recognition on Google News at this link

 Romanian air force F-16 Fighting Falcons conduct a flying demonstration at Air Base 86 in Borcea, Romania, Oct. 6, 2017. The Romanian air forces hosted a ceremony to recognize the reception of the final three aircraft--commemorating the completion of the first F-16 squadron in Romania (Picture source: U.S. Air Force/Staff Sgt. Rachelle Coleman)

The Government of Romania has requested to buy upgrades to the avionics, software, communication equipment, navigational aids, and cockpit of its Mid-Life Update (MLU) Block 15 F-16 aircraft fleet along with additional logistics support. Included in the aircraft modernization are 8 LN-260 Global Positioning System (GPS) and 19 Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio Systems (MIDS JTRS). Also included is AN/APX-126 Advanced Identification Friend or Foe (IFF); ARC-210 Radios; KIV-78 Cryptographic Appliques; other secure communications, navigation, and encryption devices; Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS) software; aircraft minor modification, integration and test support, support equipment, software and software support; personnel training; spare and repair parts; publications and technical documentation; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistical support services; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated total cost is $175.4 million.

The proposed sale will improve Romania’s capability to meet current and future threats by upgrading its avionics to meet interoperability requirements for encrypted communications systems used by NATO forces.

The principal contractor will be Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company of Fort Worth, TX. Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of U.S. Government or contractor representatives in Romania.