Blocaj la IAR-99 SM: Soluția găsită de MApN pentru piloții de F-16
Delays in the delivery of IAR-99 SM aircraft from Avioane Craiova are impacting the training of F-16 pilots, according to interim Defense Minister Radu Miruță. He mentioned that while software issues have been resolved, two deficiencies remain related to GPS and a bomb launcher. The proposed solution involves taking the aircraft with these unresolved issues while withholding financial guarantees and penalties until the problems are fixed. Miruță emphasized the high costs of renting alternative aircraft for pilot training. Bill Thomas from the European F-16 Training Center highlighted the importance of initial training on cheaper aircraft like the IAR-99 before transitioning to F-16s, as it significantly reduces costs and training duration.