Greek Government Clarifies No Approval for F-16 Deployment in Romania for NATO Missions

The issue of deploying eight Greek fighter aircraft to Romania to carry out NATO missions was raised today (June 2, 2025) in Parliament by the president of the ‘Victory’ party, Dimitris Natsios. Deputy Minister of National Defense, Thanasis Davakis, responded by stating that no operational deployment of Greek F-16 fighter jets to Romania has been approved, as the Supreme Defense Council (KYSEA), which is solely responsible for the deployment of Greek forces abroad, has not made any such decision. The Deputy Minister noted that NATO had indeed requested the availability of eight Greek F-16 fighter jets for regional security, with an interim relocation to Romania from August to November 2025. However, the cost of this mission has not yet been calculated, and any decision regarding participation remains pending KYSEA approval. Davakis questioned whether Greece wants to remain a member of NATO, the world’s largest alliance, or if only Turkey should remain a member. He emphasized that the government acts according to national interest, highlighting the clear benefits Greece derives from NATO membership. In contrast, Dimitris Natsios accused the government of planning to approve the F-16 deployment to Romania, similar to previous decisions involving military aid to Ukraine, which he claims weakens Greece’s defense capabilities. Natsios also criticized the government’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.