Aviano F-16s take over Black Sea NATO air policing mission
By Rachel Nostrant
May 2, 12:10 PM
The Russian invasion of Ukraine is steadily approaching it’s third month. And airmen from Aviano Air Base in Italy are preparing to take over for Air Force fighter jets from Spangdahlem Air Base currently serving as the U.S. contingent in NATO air policing efforts in Romania.
Six F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 510th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron arrived at Fetesti Air Base on April 29 to replace members of the 480th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron who initially answered NATO’s call for air policing in February.
“The continued presence of U.S. F-16s in the south-east region ensures critical capability for the Air Policing mission and strengthens NATO’s collective readiness.” Gen. Jeff Harrigian, U.S. Air Force in Europe – Air Forces Africa commander, said in a recent press release.
https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2022/05/02/aviano-f-16s-take-over-black-sea-nato-air-policing-mission/
