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US Approves $7.2 Billion F-35 Fighter Jet Sale to Romania, Strengthening NATO Alliance

The United States has approved the sale of 32 F-35A fighter jets to Romania, a deal worth $7.2 billion, in a move aimed at bolstering the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) alliance and enhancing regional security. The contract, which must still be approved by the US Congress, covers the purchase of F-35A aircraft and related equipment produced by Lockheed Martin, a leading US aerospace and defense company.

The proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally that plays a crucial role in maintaining political and economic stability in Europe. Romania’s strategic location at the gateway to Ukraine and the Black Sea makes it an important hub for F-16 training, and the country has pledged to train Ukrainian pilots at its Fetesti air base.

The contract announcement comes as Ukrainian pilots began training this week at a special center in Romania on F-16s, US-made fighter jets approved by Washington to help Kyiv repel Russia’s invasion. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met his Romanian counterpart Luminita Odobescu on Thursday, thanking Bucharest for delivering a Patriot missile defense system to Ukraine.

In another development, the US State Department also approved a $4.1 billion sale to Japan of a KC-46A aerial refueling tanker. The deal is part of the US government’s efforts to strengthen its military partnerships with key allies in the Asia-Pacific region.

The F-35 fighter jet sale to Romania is a significant step in enhancing the country’s military capabilities and reinforcing its commitment to NATO. The deal is expected to have a positive impact on regional security, as Romania plays a vital role in maintaining stability in Eastern Europe.