This section describes and illustrates the various national insignia used by the Romanian Air Force since its formation:
1915-1941
When Romania joined the Allies in World War I, the reformed military aviation unit adopted allied-style roundels with the colours red-yellow-blue. The main marking was displayed on the fuselage sides and above and below each wing. The fin or rudder carried vertical stripes in the national colours, with blue at the front. This marking was retained until 1941.
Main MarkingFin Flash
Variation 1Variation 2
1941-1944
In 1941 Romania joined the Axis powers aligned with Germany, and this was reflected in a switch to a yellow cross-style making, with a small roundel in the centre. There were several variations in this makings, in terms of the length and width of the arms of the cross, and the thickness of the blue border. The rudder stripes were normally retained as before.
1944-1947
On 23 August 1944 Romania switched sides and declared war on Germany. The national markings were hastily reverted back to the pre-war roundel form.
1947-1985
During the communist era, the main marking consisted of a red star with the old roundel in the centre. It was displayed on the fuselage sides and above and below each wing, and also on the fin on aircraft.
1990-present
The main marking is displayed on the fuselage sides of the helicopters, and above and below each wing. A smaller version is displayed on the fin on aircraft. Many aircraft, including fighters, carry the service titles FORTELE AERIENE ROMANE / ROMANIAN AIR FORCE.