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MIHAIL KOGALNICEANU, Romania – Spain remains a strong supporter of NATO’s enhanced Air Policing mission in Romania. While the Spanish F-18s redeployed to Spain, they were relieved in place by Spanish Eurofighters, which continue safeguarding the skies alongside Romanian Air Force F-16s on the Black Sea coast. 

On November 26, Romania conducted a farewell ceremony for the Spanish F-18 detachment at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base near Constanta. Since August 2024, the Spanish detachment operated eight F-18 jets conducting 24/7 Air Policing duties with Romania demonstrating NATO cohesion and commitment in the Black Sea region. They also participated in countless sorties with Allies within the framework of Alliance vigilance activities aimed at boosting interoperability among aircrew from Allied nations. 

Spanish Eurofighters continue safeguarding the skies on the Black Sea coast. Photo courtesy of the Spanish Air Force

Since August 2024, eight Spanish F-18 jets have been conducting 24/7 Air Policing from Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base. Photo courtesy of the Spanish Air Force

Since 2014 Romania has worked with several Allies to enhance enduring NATO Air Policing missions. Photo courtesy of the Spanish Air Force

On November 28, six Spanish Eurofighters arrived at Mihail Kogalniceanu and took over the mission from their F-18 colleagues from December 1, ensuring continuity. The combined mission contributes to NATO’s deterrence and defence posture and further improves interoperability among both air forces.

Since 2014, Romania has worked with several Allies to enhance enduring NATO Air Policing missions. Initially in response to Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and, subsequently, further bolstering Alliance operational capabilities along the eastern flank after Russia’s attack on Ukraine, NATO has increased its defensive posture and presence on the territory of its eastern Allies. Romania’s team at Mihail Kogalniceanu has proven the base is capable of ensuring sustained operations through Host Nation support. The deployed Allied fighter detachments have demonstrated their close cooperation with Romania and other Allies in the region underlining the solidarity among members of the Alliance.