• Military Menu                       

• Introduction
• Systems
• Facilities
• Agencies
• Industry
• Operations
• Countries
• Hot Documents
• News
• Reports
• Policy
• Budget
• Congress
• Links

• WMD
• Intelligence
• Homeland Security
• Space

The Romanian Air Force conclude four-month commitment to NATO's Baltic Air Policing Mission in Lithuania

NATO Allied Air Command

Aug 1 2025

RAMSTEIN, Germany -- The Romanian Air Force conclude their four-month deployment safeguarding NATO airspace in the Baltic region. In an official handover ceremony, held at Šiauliai Air Base, the responsibilities of NATO's Air Policing mission was handed over to the Hungarian and Spanish contingents.

The outgoing detachment have been working alongside the Polish Air Force from Šiauliai Air Base, Lithuania, providing 24/7 Quick Reaction Alert. During their deployment, the Romanian team, known as the "Carpathian Vipers", demonstrated operational readiness and commitment to the collective defence of the Alliance.

"Individually, we are just people. But together, we are the Carpathian Vipers - a team that embodies the professionalism, dedication, and sacrifice of the Romanian Air Force," said Colonel Vasile Petrea, Carpathian Vipers Detachment Commander. "Through our daily actions, we reaffirm Romania's steadfast commitment to NATO and to the collective defence of the Euro-Atlantic space. We don't just represent Romania. We represent the standards of the Alliance we are proud to be part of."

Since April, 2025, the 'Carpathian Vipers' have conducted over 400 flying hours executing a wide range of operational and training activities. Participating in multinational exercises, including Ramstein Alloy, Hedgehog, and Baltops significantly enhancing interoperability with NATO Allies and regional partners. "Behind each combat mission was intense work, supported by rigorous training, discipline and relentless effort, day and night, to achieve the proposed objectives without compromise." Said 'Tatoo" an F-16 pilot on the Carpathian Vipers detachment.

The Romanian Air Force has been a steadfast contributor to Baltic Air Policing since 2007 and has led the mission multiple times. This deployment again demonstrates Romania's dedication to NATO's core task of deterrence and defence. The outgoing Romanian team now passes the baton to detachments from Hungary, flying JAS-39 Gripens, and Spain, flying EF2000 Eurofighter Typhoon, who will together ensure the continued protection of Baltic airspace under NATO command.

NATO's Air Policing mission stands as a cornerstone of the Alliance's commitment to maintaining the integrity and security of NATO airspace. This collective defence initiative ensures that even member countries without their own air defence capabilities are protected.

Story by Allied Air Command Public Affairs Office