RAF Typhoons Assume NATO Air Policing from Eurofighters in Romania
NATO has completed a planned rotation of its enhanced air policing mission in Romania. The German Air Force handed over duties to the Royal Air Force at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base.
Handover at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base
The transfer followed two consecutive German rotations on the south-eastern flank. RAF Typhoons Assume NATO Air Policing from Eurofighters in Romania was enacted as part of the schedule. The handover ensures continuous coverage of Romanian airspace.
Operational record of the German detachment
German Eurofighter Typhoons deployed from summer 2025. They operated under NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence framework in the Black Sea region.
| Deployment start | Summer 2025 |
| Flying hours | More than 600 |
| Sorties | Over 470 |
| Alpha Scrambles | More than 25 |
| Flexible Deterrence Options | Eight |
Operational tempo and tasks
The detachment maintained continuous readiness through Quick Reaction Alert duties. Officials described the mission as demanding and highly meaningful for personnel.
The unit executed Alpha Scrambles to respond rapidly to airspace events. It also performed Flexible Deterrence Options under the Eastern Sentry posture.
Interoperability with Romanian forces
German Eurofighters flew alongside Romanian F-16s during the rotation. Joint operations increased interoperability and sharpened integrated air defence coordination.
Alliance message and continuity
NATO said rotations show the Alliance can sustain forward-deployed air power. Officials added these shifts help maintain stability along NATO’s south-eastern flank.
The handover to the Royal Air Force preserves uninterrupted air policing coverage over Romania. The transition underscores NATO’s layered and flexible deterrence posture.
