Spain reinforces aerial surveillance in Romania with the deployment of the 'PAZNIC' detachment.

• Five Eurofighter aircraft, fifty-seven members of the 14th Wing and two members of the Logistic Centre for Armament and Experimentation are deployed at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base

In another demonstration of Spain's commitment to the collective security of NATO countries, an aeronautical detachment has been deployed to the Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base in Romania. This deployment, composed of five Eurofighter aircraft, fifty-seven members of the 14th Wing and two members of the Logistic Centre for Armament and Experimentation, will operate between the 8th and 19th of April under the name 'PAZNIC' Detachment.

This new deployment is part of NATO's operations aimed at strengthening deterrence and defence on the Alliance's eastern flank, in response to the growing tensions and security challenges in the region. Therefore, NATO has increased its presence in Eastern Europe, highlighting the importance of continued aerial surveillance to protect allied airspace, one of the busiest in the world.

The 'PAZNIC' Detachment will contribute to NATO's Flexible Deterrence Options (FDO), performing missions that range from aerial surveillance to training exercises with allied countries, thus demonstrating interoperability and cohesion among Alliance air forces. The mission underlines the rapid response capability of NATO members against any threat to their territorial integrity and regional peace, being demonstrated on this occasion by the 14th Wing and the Air and Space Force through continuous training and instruction.

Operating under NATO command, the PAZNIC Detachment reaffirms Spain's commitment to the principles of collective defence. The operation is part of NATO's Air Shielding concept, designed to dynamically adapt to security needs and provide enhanced air cover in critical areas.

This new deployment is supported by the 'TIGRU' Detachment, which is still operating since October 2002 in Romania with the mission of airspace surveillance, and represents a reiteration of Spain's capacity and commitment to the maintenance of European security and stability, reaffirming its position as a reliable and proactive ally in NATO's collective defence.

Furthermore, as part of NATO's Baltic Aerial Police mission, a Spanish contingent is currently deployed in Lithuania. At the Siauliai Base there are 150 Air and Space Army soldiers and 8 F-18 from the 12th and 15th Wings respectively, which will be integrated into the VILKAS Detachment from 1st April to 31st July.