At the "Paris Air Show" (June 16-22), Leonardo and Avioane Craiova announced the signing of a "Technological and Industrial Cooperation Agreement", marking a significant step forward in strengthening industrial collaboration between the two companies. The agreement covers several areas of potential cooperation, with a primary focus on Leonardo’s C-27J Spartan aircraft and the integrated training systems (ITS) M-345 and M-346, including the localization in Romania of activities related to the avionics upgrade program for the C-27J, maintenance and logistics, repairs, and personnel training.

Avioane Craiova is set to be deeply involved in the current avionics upgrade program for the fleet of seven C-27J Spartans, successfully operated by the Romanian Air Force since 2010. This significant modernization program, which includes the integration of state-of-the-art systems as well as training activities, would ensure a considerable industrial return, also paving the way for future industrial programs aimed at progressively building a reliable regional industrial hub for the C-27J at Avioane Craiova.

The agreement between Leonardo and Avioane Craiova would also enable further prospects aimed at the joint development of a comprehensive proposal, allowing the Romanian Air Force to integrate a new training paradigm for pilots based on the Integrated Training System M-345 and M-346. This approach would facilitate the creation of new local capabilities in maintenance, subassembly, logistics, and support, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the Romanian Air Force’s fleet. This would also foster the growth of Romania’s defense industrial base, opening new opportunities for technological cooperation, skill development, and high-value-added employment within Romania.

As the Romanian Air Force anticipates the entry into service of fifth-generation F-35 fighters, which will complement the expanding fleet of F-16s, the Integrated Training System based on the M-345 and M-346 represents a proven solution for this task. It facilitates the transition to the required operational status amid continuously evolving and increasingly complex threats, ensuring the effectiveness and readiness demanded by a NATO operator such as the Romanian Air Force.

On the topic, see also the articles published by AVIONEWS 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and subsequent updates.