The US State Department approved the sale of F-35 aircraft to Romania

The Romanian government has asked the United States to purchase 32 F-35 aircraft, ammunition, and other related equipment for $7,2 billion.

The US State Department approved a decision on the possible sale of fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets and related equipment to the Romanian government. This was announced the day before by the US Defense and Security Cooperation Agency.

The agency has already granted the necessary certification by notifying Congress of this potential sale.

It is indicated that the Romanian government has requested the purchase of 32 F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter aircraft and 33 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines, ammunition, as well as other related equipment. The value of the contract is estimated at 7,2 billion dollars.

"The proposed sale will improve Romania's ability to counter current and future threats by further equipping it for self-defense and regional security missions, while enhancing interoperability with the United States and other NATO members," the statement said.

And last month, the US approved the sale of AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles to Romania for $180 million. They are compatible with F-16 and F-35 fighters.