Key Facts
| Current Title: |
| Fortele Navale Române |
| English Title: |
| Romanian Navy |
| Abbreviation: |
| FNR |
| First Established: |
| 2007 |
| ICAO Code: |
| (None) |
| Country: |
| Romania |
| Status: |
| Active |
History
Narrative Summary
The original Naval Aviation force was disbanded in 1960. However, the expansion of the naval fleet in the 1980s, and the development of state-owned off-shore oil rigs in the Black Sea led to demands for better helicopter support. In response, the Air Force introduced specially modified IAR 330L Puma, (and later IAR 316B Alouette III), helicopters for this task. Unfortunately, reduced budgets after the end of the Cold War and the retirement of the Alouettes resulted in this role being given a low priority and by 2001 the Air Force had largely abandoned naval operations.
In 2005 the Romanian Navy ordered three specially configured Puma helicopters, with a view to rebuilding it’s aviation capability. In July 2007 the Romanian Naval Air Arm was formally established.
| Key Dates: | ||
| 13 July 2007 | Naval aviation resumed using Puma NAVAL helicopters. | |
Current Status
Romanian naval helicopters are used primarily for shipboard support, surveillance and Search & Rescue (SAR) missions.
Future Plans
Additional helicopters may be required.
Markings
National Insignia
Main markingFin Flash
The main marking is carried on the fuselage sides of the helicopters. A fin flash is not carried. The service titles RO NAVY are displayed on the tail boom.
Aircraft Serial Numbers
Romanian naval helicopters serials comprise a three-digit number for each airframe, e.g. Puma NAVAL 140.
Unit/Base Codes
Coding system not used
Aircraft
Aircraft Designations
None – Manufacturers designations used
Current Aircraft Inventory
| Aircraft Type | Total Del’d | Total Active | Still on Order | Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospatiale SA 330 Puma NAVAL | 3 | 3 | 0 | Naval Support |
All-Time Aircraft Used List
| Aircraft Type | Quantity | Service Entry | Retirement | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospatiale SA 330 Puma NAVAL | 3 | 2007 | current | Romania |
Aircraft NOT Used
False reports of aircraft on order or in service – the Mil Mi-14PL is NOT used. All other types reported since 1960 as being operated by the Navy were actually Air Force aircraft.
Organisation
Main Headquarters:
Not known.
Organisational Structure
The Romanian Naval Air Arm currently comprises one Helicopter Flight.
Current Order of Battle
| Squadron | Type | Base |
|---|---|---|
| Helicopter Flight | Constanta | IAR 330 Puma NAVAL |
Historical Orders of Battle
Not applicable.
All-Time Flying Units List
Helicopter Flight.
Air Bases
Current Air Bases
All helicopters are operated from Constanta.
All-Time Air Bases Used List
Not applicable.
More Information
Books
None known.
Magazines
To be added.
Websites
Official Romanian Navy Website
wikipedia: Romanian Naval Forces