The Romanian Air Force began a new Enhanced Air Policing mission in the Baltic airspace on Monday, as part of the country’s commitment to NATO’s collective security, the National Defence Ministry (MApN) announced.
According to a MApN press release, the official ceremony marking the start of the mission took place at the Siauliai Air Base, in the presence of the Chief of the Romanian General Staff, General Gheorghita Vlad, as well as military officials from Lithuania, Poland, Italy and France.
Between April and July 2025, the „Carpathian Vipers” detachment, made up of approximately 100 military personnel and four F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, will carry out missions alongside the Polish Air Force. This is the third deployment of the Romanian Air Force to Lithuania, demonstrating Romania’s determination to contribute to the defence of NATO’s eastern flank, according to the quoted source.
General Vlad reaffirmed Romania’s firm commitment to supporting regional security.
„NATO unity, beyond state borders, is strengthened by the presence of allied multi-domain forces and by joint training activities. These efforts enhance our defensive posture and ensure the maintenance of freedom and security in the Euro-Atlantic space,” said the Chief of the General Staff.
He had a bilateral meeting with his Lithuanian counterpart, General Raimundas Vaiksnoras. The two officials discussed the importance of NATO unity and cohesion in the face of shared challenges, as well as collaboration in the training of F-16 pilots, with Romania offering facilities such as the European Training Centre for this type of aircraft.
Additionally, General Vaiksnoras thanked Romania for its contribution to protecting allied airspace and raised another topic of mutual interest, namely the support both countries provide to the National Army of the Republic of Moldova, in the context of strengthening its defence capabilities.
The National Defence Ministry points out that through this new mission in Lithuania, Romania once again demonstrates that it is a reliable NATO member, actively contributing to regional security and the protection of the Alliance’s eastern flank.
AGERPRES
