Italian Air Policing detachment showcases the flexibility and agility of NATO air basing across the European theatre
NATO Allied Air Command
Jun 16 2025
RAMSTEIN, Germany -- On June 12, 2025, Italian Air Force Eurofighter Typhoons, deployed on NATO's enhanced Air Policing mission in Romania, conducted an Agile Combat Employment (ACE) mission in Romania, showcasing the Alliance's enhanced flexibility and rapid response capabilities.
The mission commenced with the Italian jets departing from Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base, Romania, conducting a Flexible Deterrence mission (FDO) with allies France, Greece, Romania and Türkiye. Following the mission the jets proceeded to Campia Turzii Air Base, where the Romanian Air Force's 48th Fighter Squadron is located. After the landing the aircraft were serviced and refueling by Italian and Romanian aircraft technicians seamlessly, before the jets were airborne again.
"Agile Combat Employment (ACE) missions, like the one executed by the Italian Air Force's enhanced Air Policing detachment in Romania, are fundamental - rather than merely beneficial - in today's complex security environment. These activities are rooted in seamless interoperability and enhance the agility and air expeditionary capability which underpins the rapid projection of airpower." Said Major General Gianluca Ercolani, Chief of Staff at NATO's Allied Air Command.
The mission by the Italian's highlights the feasibility and effectiveness of operating from secondary locations within NATO's agile basing architect. Such operations are vital for ensuring continuous air power.
"By consistently sharing procedures and techniques, we bolster the collective strength of NATO, directly enhancing the survivability and operational effectiveness of our aircraft. NATO's ACE, together with the Counter-Anti Access/ Area Denial (C-A2AD), Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD), Air Command and Control (C2) and Information Sharing are fundamental keystones to fortifying our alliance's defence and deterrence posture," added Major General Gianluca Ercolani.
"The joint training exercise was a testament to the growing interoperability between Romania and Italy. Joint procedures were rehearsed and refined, ensuring that air crews from both nations can operate seamlessly in future international missions" said Brigadier General Cătălin-Eugen MICLOȘ, Commander of 71st Air Base.
Romanian and Italian military personnel joined forces in a training exercise that highlighted the strength and importance of allied cooperation within NATO.
"Such initiatives are more than just tactical drills - they are vital to strengthening the strategic partnerships between allied nations and maintaining collective defence capabilities across the Euro-Atlantic area. As part of NATO Allied Air Command's framework, these joint exercises reinforce the unity and readiness of NATO forces, contributing directly to regional and global security" added Brigadier General Cătălin-Eugen MICLOȘ.
The Italian Air Force detachment has been a cornerstone in NATO's enhanced Air Policing efforts in Romania. Since their deployment, the detachment has been working in coordination with Romanian F-16 fighters to provide 24/7/365 Air Policing capabilities. This close collaboration not only ensures the security of NATO airspace but also demonstrates the interoperability and cohesion among Allied forces.
"The ACE activity was a valuable opportunity to test our ability to quickly adapt to the logistical conditions of a forward base, very different from our home station. It enhanced our flexibility and allowed us to build strong bonds with NATO allies by sharing best practices in cross-servicing," said Captain Lidia Guerriero, Chief of Aircraft Maintenance at the Task Force Air.
Story by Allied Air Command Public Affairs Office
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