Four CF-188 Hornets will be deployed to Constanta, Romania, to participate in NATO’s enhanced Air Policing.
| Canadian CF-188 Hornet fighters (Photo: CAF) |
The news had appeared on the web a few months ago, the Sanicole Airshow had already announced its presence at the event to take place in September and now the NATO command has formalized the deployment of the Canadian CF-18 Hornets in Europe.
According to the NATO HQ Aircom media release, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is sending approximately 135 CAF personnel and four CF-188 Hornets to Constanta, Romania, to participate in NATO’s enhanced Air Policing from September to December 2017.
This mission is part of Canada’s contribution to NATO’s assurance and deterrence measures. Canada’s Air Task Force Romania will augment the Romanian Air Force’s air policing capabilities.
NATO’s enhanced Air Policing has been part of its assurance and deterrence measures since 2014. These measures demonstrate the collective resolve of Allies, the defensive nature of NATO, and help deter the threat of aggression against NATO Allies.
"The Canadian Armed Forces is committed to the principle of collective defence of the Alliance, which is at the very heart of NATO’s founding treaty,” says Lieutenant-General Steve Bowes, Commander, Canadian Joint Operations Command. "Our military personnel are well-trained and committed to contribute to NATO’s enhanced Air Policing.”
The Canadian fighters will provide continuity to the defense of Romania currently operated by RAF Typhoon along with Romanian aircraft. (More details here).
