Lockheed marks graduation of first F-16 pilots from ETC

Lockheed Martin has celebrated the graduation of the first mission-ready F-16 pilots from the European F-16 Training Centre (EFTC) in Romania.

This effort, achieved through collaboration between Lockheed Martin and the governments of the Netherlands and Romania, is seen as a step forward in enhancing NATO’s security efforts in Europe.

The EFTC, which has expanded its training fleet to include 14 Dutch F-16s, has been conducting night training missions and air-to-air exercises with other NATO air forces.

These activities aim to improve the tactical proficiency and operational readiness of Romanian pilots, contributing to the nation’s air defence capabilities.

OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin, stated, “This milestone enhances Romania’s air defence capabilities and mission readiness with our 21st Century Security training solutions. We appreciate Romania’s trust in us and are committed to supporting their pioneering efforts, including hosting the first European F-16 Training Center, which underscores their strategic importance within NATO and European defence.”

New training classes at the EFTC have already begun, with another set to start in September. This initiative involves several subcontractors, including Daedalus Aviation Group, Draken International, and Airbus subsidiary GFD, among others.

Lockheed Martin’s long-standing partnership with Romania, which spans over 26 years, includes a range of collaborations, such as establishing sustainment centres for Black Hawk helicopters and HIMARS rocket systems, and engaging in artificial intelligence research with the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca.