The US approves the sale of F-35 aircraft to Romania for $7.2 billion

On Friday, 14 September, the US Department of State approved the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Romania for $7.2 billion

Here's What We Know

This is a contract that has yet to be approved by the US Congress, under which Bucharest can purchase 32 F-35A aircraft, as well as related equipment and pilot training with the support of Lockheed Martin.

"This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO member that is an important force for political and economic stability in Europe," the State Department said in a statement.

Interestingly, the contract was announced as Ukrainian pilots began training at a special centre in Romania on the F-16.

Source: The Defence Post