ContentContent

1. Beginnings1. Beginnings2.Oldies 2.Oldies 3.At war3.At war

4. The Cold War4. The Cold War 5.Transition Period5.Transition Period

1. Beginnings1. Beginnings Romanian aeronautics history brought guidance and

contributed to the development of scientific and technical thinking of mankind in a key area of human civilization at a date when this area (flight) was just at the beginning. The creative genius of Romanians was pushed forward by some key achievements in science

and art of flight, aircraft construction, such as designing and building some types of missiles - including

multistage missile, making horizontal or vertical flight, solving the field pulling propeller, designing aircrafts, wing "delta" or some unconventional aircrafts. The

world renowned inventors Traian Vuia, Gregory Brişcu, Henri Coanda, George Arion, Tache Brumărescu,

Hermann Oberth, Nicholas Vaideanu, Basil Dimitrescu and many others had an inventive spirit which helped

them achieve outstanding performances.

Between 1906-1915, Romanian scientists have solved the problem of mechanical flight (Traian Vuia), invented jet (Henri Coanda), have designed and built the first airplane with vertical take-off in the world that flew on 27 May 1911 (Tache Brumărescu) and have made two projects regarding the invisible plane (Prof. Dr. Vasile Dimitrescu). Romanian Air Force was founded in 1910 thanks to the civil society with the Ministry of War and the first military aircraft design was made by engineer and aviator Aurel Vlaicu who conducted its construction at Army Arsenal and who flew it on 17 June 1910. Engineer Aurel Vlaicu, who studied at College Royal Bavarian Polytechnic of Munich, became the first pilot of the Romanian army. On 27 September 1910, he has served in the military manoeuvres conducted in southern Romania where a reconnaissance flight from Slatina and Piatra Olt took place, teaching Prince Ferdinand, heir of the throne, a document of the General Staff of the Romanian Army. In this way, Romania became the second country in the world after France that employed plane during military manoeuvres.

Romanian military pilots were trained in Chitila Aeronautical Complex (near Bucharest), which was established on November 20, 1909 by Michael Cerchez through the Constitutive Act no. 2931/1909 registered in Ilfov Tribunal. Here at Chitila, on the 9th July and 17 July 1911, there were patented the first Romanian military pilots: Stephen Protopopescu and George Negrescu. They learned the technique of flying on Farman III aircraft in 1909, the model built under licence in the workshops of Chitila. The two young pilots would study in the years 1913-1914 at School of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering from Paris and became the first military aviation engineers from the Romanian army. Also during this period, Radu Simion and Chişcăneanu Irimescu attended the polytechnic school in Charlottemburg-Berlin becoming the first Romanian mechanical engineers.

In 1911-1912 there were established three civil flight schools in Chitila, Baneasa and Cotroceni, where military pilots were patented. By the Royal Decree no. 1953 from 27 March / April 8th, 1912, the Ministry of War established a Military School of flight in Cotroceni, which was the fourth flight school in Romania. It was then also introduced military pilot badge. By 1913, the civil and military flight schools have trained a total of 21 military pilots and 15 other airmen took their patents in France. Lieutenant Prince George Valentin Bibescu obtained on January 6, 1910, the patent of flight no. 20 in France and in September 1910 he made the first Romanian international air raid, flying on the route Bucharest-Giurgiu-Ruse, Bulgaria.

Romanian Air Force aircraft equipped with 10 local construction "A. Vlaicu. 1 "Farman III (made in Chitila license), Nieuport, Morane-Saulnier and Bleriot, participated in military manoeuvres undertaken between 1911-1912, Romanian pilots making long distance air raids on time, 150-180 km, between cities Turnu Severin-Bucharest, Bucharest-Constanta, Bucharest-Iasi. Romanian Parliament voted in April 1913 the first law of organization of military aeronautics sanctioned by the High King Charles I nr.3199 Royal Decree of 30 April 1913. Military aviation service is set up two departments: aviation and aerostation. It has been created the permanent aviation body comprised of pilots, mechanics and air observers. It also provided the opportunity to enter the lower grades in the body after completing a specialized school. By law, a military pilot must execute in a year 120 hours of flight. Romanian Air Force has seen an important development in 1913, having supplied 34 military aircraft, of which 16 were from Bristol-Coanda type. This plane was designed by Romanian engineer Henri Coanda in 1912 still work in factories Bristol in England, as chief engineer and technical director then.

Events in the Balkans in the summer of Events in the Balkans in the summer of 19131913 led Romanian led Romanian army in the army in the Second Balkan WarSecond Balkan War. 19 Romanian aircrafts had . 19 Romanian aircrafts had reconnaissance missions on the Bulgarian territory, reconnaissance missions on the Bulgarian territory, Romanian airmen flew over Sofia, launching manifest even Romanian airmen flew over Sofia, launching manifest even in the courtyard of the Royal Palace. Officer Nicolae Capsa in the courtyard of the Royal Palace. Officer Nicolae Capsa and aviators John H. Arion, Zorileanu Mircea, Constantin and aviators John H. Arion, Zorileanu Mircea, Constantin Gheorghe, Valentin Bibescu and Prince Fotescu made Gheorghe, Valentin Bibescu and Prince Fotescu made reconnaissance flights at distances of 200 km and at heights reconnaissance flights at distances of 200 km and at heights of 2200-2500 m. At the outbreak of of 2200-2500 m. At the outbreak of World War IWorld War I, Romania , Romania declared neutrality. Although on the Romanian throne there declared neutrality. Although on the Romanian throne there was a German king, political class wanted an alliance with was a German king, political class wanted an alliance with the Entente to get back the Romanian provinces occupied by the Entente to get back the Romanian provinces occupied by Austria-Hungary and the Romanian people living there. Austria-Hungary and the Romanian people living there.

Between 1914-1916, continued Between 1914-1916, continued developing developing military aviation equipment and military aviation equipment and preparing preparing the fleet the fleet to enter the fray. The to enter the fray. The Ministerial Decision no. 305 of 10/23 Ministerial Decision no. 305 of 10/23 august august 19151915 established established the the Romanian Romanian Aviation CorpsAviation Corps,, aviation becoming an aviation becoming an independentindependent weapon no longer weapon no longer subordinatesubordinate to other ministeries to other ministeries as as it was it was beforebefore.. Between Between 1916-19171916-1917, Romania , Romania acquiredacquired from France and Britain from France and Britain 322322 aircrafts: Nieuport fighters types 11, 12, aircrafts: Nieuport fighters types 11, 12, 17, 19, 21, 23 and 28, for easy recognition 17, 19, 21, 23 and 28, for easy recognition and bomber Farman type 40 and 46; and bomber Farman type 40 and 46; Sopwith Strutter, Caudron G.4 - Bimota Sopwith Strutter, Caudron G.4 - Bimota distant recognition and Breguet-Michelin distant recognition and Breguet-Michelin bombing and shelling. Twelve machines bombing and shelling. Twelve machines were equipped with this type of board were equipped with this type of board type Hotchkiss guns of 37 mm, and two type Hotchkiss guns of 37 mm, and two Nieuport Type 11 squadrons were Nieuport Type 11 squadrons were equipped too, in addition to board equipped too, in addition to board machine guns, and missile-type rockets machine guns, and missile-type rockets "La Prieur" to fight captive balloons. "La Prieur" to fight captive balloons.

Romania entered the war Romania entered the war against Austro-Hungarian Empire on 14/27-against Austro-Hungarian Empire on 14/27-15/28 august 15/28 august 19161916, Romanian Aviation Corps had , Romanian Aviation Corps had 44 aircraft 44 aircraft in in service, service, 97 pilots and 84 air observers97 pilots and 84 air observers. Each of the four Romanian . Each of the four Romanian army received an air group. Airmen were sent in early reconnaissance army received an air group. Airmen were sent in early reconnaissance missions and bombing campaign on the north-western and southern missions and bombing campaign on the north-western and southern side of Transylvania. On 16 September 1916, the crew consists of a side of Transylvania. On 16 September 1916, the crew consists of a pilot Lieutenant John Colet and Sergeant observer on board a Gruia pilot Lieutenant John Colet and Sergeant observer on board a Gruia F.40 shot down the first German plane in a dogfight held near F.40 shot down the first German plane in a dogfight held near Slobozia, in southern Romania. Slobozia, in southern Romania. The mThe magnitude agnitude of the of the Romanian front Romanian front waswas over 1000 km over 1000 km, which, which determined determined Romanians Romanians to seek to seek help at the help at the French General Headquarters French General Headquarters which which sent a military mission that sent a military mission that arrived in Romania in October 1916. Among allied soldiers and arrived in Romania in October 1916. Among allied soldiers and airmen airmen there there were volunteers who were immediately placed were volunteers who were immediately placed on the on the Romanian squadrons, Romanian squadrons, these these becoming mixed crews.becoming mixed crews.The first part of the campaign The first part of the campaign fromfrom August to December 1916, the August to December 1916, the Romanian army troops suffered defeats in the German-Austro-Romanian army troops suffered defeats in the German-Austro-Hungarian, Bulgarian and TurkishHungarian, Bulgarian and Turkish borders borders. Aviation has proven its . Aviation has proven its great utility, executing hundreds of reconnaissance missions and great utility, executing hundreds of reconnaissance missions and bombingbombing,, Romanian military aircraft getting 28 Romanian military aircraft getting 28 defeatssdefeatss (23 by (23 by German and Austro-Hungarian aircraft were shot down by anti-German and Austro-Hungarian aircraft were shot down by anti-aircraft artillery and 5 pilotsaircraft artillery and 5 pilots died died).).

On 1 January 1917, aviation was reorganized, the Aeronautics On 1 January 1917, aviation was reorganized, the Aeronautics Division of the Romanian General HeadquartersDivision of the Romanian General Headquarters being created being created, , commanded by Lieutenant Colonel aviation Vergnette Delamotte, with commanded by Lieutenant Colonel aviation Vergnette Delamotte, with aviator Major Fotescu Constantine as head of the Department of aviator Major Fotescu Constantine as head of the Department of Aviation. Aviation. The The military aviation aircraftmilitary aviation aircrafts were s were organized organized in in 3 groups in 3 groups in July 1917 July 1917 and it and it had 150 planes grouped had 150 planes grouped firstfirst in 12, then in 14 in 12, then in 14 squadrons. Aviators have made a great contribution in the squadrons. Aviators have made a great contribution in the development of the great battles of August-September 1917, serving development of the great battles of August-September 1917, serving until 1919 and obtainuntil 1919 and obtaininging 83 aerial victories (50 other enemy aircraft 83 aerial victories (50 other enemy aircraft were shot down by anti-aircraft artillery). were shot down by anti-aircraft artillery). LLieutenant Bădulescu ieutenant Bădulescu from from the the Romanian aviationRomanian aviation became an became an ace with 8 victories including 5 ace with 8 victories including 5 in in the the air air which which have been approved by shooting. Between 1916-1919, have been approved by shooting. Between 1916-1919, Romanian airmen conducted thousands of missions totaling 11,000 Romanian airmen conducted thousands of missions totaling 11,000 flight hours, have claimed over 750 aerial combatflight hours, have claimed over 750 aerial combatss and launched into and launched into enemy lines 100 tons of bombs. 8enemy lines 100 tons of bombs. 8 Romanian airmen Romanian airmen ffell in air combatell in air combatss or fellor fell being hit being hit by enemy anti-aircraft artillery. A total of 11 pilots by enemy anti-aircraft artillery. A total of 11 pilots and observers were awarded the highest military distinction and observers were awarded the highest military distinction Romanian - Order "Michael the Brave" Class III.Romanian - Order "Michael the Brave" Class III.

2. Oldies2. Oldies After the war, in 1923, Romanian After the war, in 1923, Romanian

aviation was reorganized, the General aviation was reorganized, the General Inspectorate of Aeronautics of the Inspectorate of Aeronautics of the General Staff was created. There was General Staff was created. There was established the Air Undersecretary of established the Air Undersecretary of State in the Ministry of War in 1936 and State in the Ministry of War in 1936 and on 16 November, the Ministry of Air on 16 November, the Ministry of Air and Marine was created . Between 1920-and Marine was created . Between 1920-1940, the Romanian aircrafts are well 1940, the Romanian aircrafts are well equipped and experience a great equipped and experience a great development in most of the 7 Romanian development in most of the 7 Romanian factories of the aircraft manufacturing factories of the aircraft manufacturing industry: Arsenal Aeronautic, SET and industry: Arsenal Aeronautic, SET and ICAR Bucharest, Constanta STC, ICAR Bucharest, Constanta STC, ASTRA Arad, Schell and IAR Brasov. ASTRA Arad, Schell and IAR Brasov. In 18 years, Romania has built over In 18 years, Romania has built over 2000 civil and military aircrafts after 2000 civil and military aircrafts after their own projects or license. their own projects or license.

IAR-80 fighter

The The Air Force was equipped with Air Force was equipped with the Romanian type fighter IAR-the Romanian type fighter IAR-80 (which was made famous on 80 (which was made famous on the eastern front) and bombers the eastern front) and bombers made at IAR Brasov type JRS made at IAR Brasov type JRS MS-79, produced after a much MS-79, produced after a much improved Italian license by the improved Italian license by the Romanian engineers. German Romanian engineers. German planes were purchased Me-109e planes were purchased Me-109e / G and He-112 fighter, Heinkel / G and He-112 fighter, Heinkel He-111 and Ju-88 bomber, the He-111 and Ju-88 bomber, the Ju-87 dive-bomber, the Ju-52 Ju-87 dive-bomber, the Ju-52 transport and seaplanes He-transport and seaplanes He-114. 114.

Savoia Marchetti SM-79 aircraft

Me-109e aircraft line

3.At war3.At war At the time of At the time of Romania's entry into the Second World War Romania's entry into the Second World War

against the Soviet Union on 22 June 1941, as an ally of Germany, against the Soviet Union on 22 June 1941, as an ally of Germany, Romanian Air Force had 621 aircrafts in service on the Eastern Romanian Air Force had 621 aircrafts in service on the Eastern Front Group with Air Anti-operated Front Group with Air Anti-operated with 253 fighterswith 253 fighters, , reconnaissance and bombing. Aviation has met hundreds of reconnaissance and bombing. Aviation has met hundreds of missions effectively contributing to the elliberation of the missions effectively contributing to the elliberation of the Romanian provinces of northern Bukovina and Bessarabia, Romanian provinces of northern Bukovina and Bessarabia, which had been occupied by the Soviet armed forces in July 1940. which had been occupied by the Soviet armed forces in July 1940. Up to Odessa, the Romanian military aircraft achieved 661 aerial Up to Odessa, the Romanian military aircraft achieved 661 aerial victories. Romanian Air Force fought on the Eastern Front until victories. Romanian Air Force fought on the Eastern Front until 22 august 1944, participating in the great battles of Stalingrad 22 august 1944, participating in the great battles of Stalingrad and on the fronts of Crimea and Ukraine. Romanian Air Force and on the fronts of Crimea and Ukraine. Romanian Air Force received between 1941-1944 a received between 1941-1944 a total of 2,000 aerial victoriestotal of 2,000 aerial victories, , Captain Prince Constantin Cantacuzino achieving 68 victories Captain Prince Constantin Cantacuzino achieving 68 victories recognized by the Germans. Captain Alexander Serbanescu shot recognized by the Germans. Captain Alexander Serbanescu shot down 60 enemy aircrafts, Lieutenant Tudor Greceanu had 42 down 60 enemy aircrafts, Lieutenant Tudor Greceanu had 42 wins, Ensign John Dicezare 40 wins, sergent Milu John 30 wins wins, Ensign John Dicezare 40 wins, sergent Milu John 30 wins and sergent Ion Martyrs 22 wins.and sergent Ion Martyrs 22 wins.

Assault aircraft Henschel Hs-129 SM-79 jet bomber on a mission

Ju-88 bombers Fighter Me-109E

After After 23 august 194423 august 1944, when , when Romania joined the United NationsRomania joined the United Nations, Air , Air Force reorganized Air Corps under General Emanoil Ionescu (8 Force reorganized Air Corps under General Emanoil Ionescu (8 September 1944-11 March 1945) and General Traian Burduloiu September 1944-11 March 1945) and General Traian Burduloiu (March 12 to May 12, 1945) contributing to the elliberation of (March 12 to May 12, 1945) contributing to the elliberation of northwest Romania, Hungary and Czechoslovakia. Romanian Air northwest Romania, Hungary and Czechoslovakia. Romanian Air Corps performed between 23 August 1944 - 12 May 1945, a total of Corps performed between 23 August 1944 - 12 May 1945, a total of 4,200 combat missions 4,200 combat missions in enemy with 8300 output plane and 11000 in enemy with 8300 output plane and 11000 hours of flight. During these missions, the pilots released 1360 tons of hours of flight. During these missions, the pilots released 1360 tons of bombs, destroying 126 enemy aircraft (German and Hungarian) and bombs, destroying 126 enemy aircraft (German and Hungarian) and another 228 enemy aircraft were seized by the Romanian pilots. another 228 enemy aircraft were seized by the Romanian pilots.

On the Western Front, the On the Western Front, the Romanian aviation participated in Romanian aviation participated in missions with 415 aircraft of missions with 415 aircraft of which 176 were lost, the losses of which 176 were lost, the losses of the Romanian Air Corps, the Romanian Air Corps, auxiliary and rear bands rose to auxiliary and rear bands rose to 729 people. In total, 729 people. In total, between 1941-between 1941-1945, the Romanian aviation lost 1945, the Romanian aviation lost 2,000 pilots, observers and 2,000 pilots, observers and military aircraft mechanical military aircraft mechanical auxiliary troops.auxiliary troops. On August 1, On August 1, 1945, all aviation units have 1945, all aviation units have returned to Romania and General returned to Romania and General Emanoil Ionescu became Minister Emanoil Ionescu became Minister Secretary of State for Air Forces. Secretary of State for Air Forces.

General Emanoil Ionescu

During the Second World War During the Second World War Romanian pilots proved Romanian pilots proved extraordinary qualities in air extraordinary qualities in air combats, the most famous aces combats, the most famous aces being Constantine "Bazu" being Constantine "Bazu" Cantacuzino Şerbănescu, Cantacuzino Şerbănescu, Alexandru Ion Dobran, Basil Alexandru Ion Dobran, Basil "Chitu" Gavriliu, Ion Milu and "Chitu" Gavriliu, Ion Milu and Tudor Greceanu .Tudor Greceanu .

Lieutenant Tudor Greceanu

Period from Period from 12 May 1945 - 30 December 1947 12 May 1945 - 30 December 1947 was characterized by the was characterized by the transition from war to organizing the peace process: the abolition of all transition from war to organizing the peace process: the abolition of all operational headquarters, combat units and auxiliary, substantial reduction of operational headquarters, combat units and auxiliary, substantial reduction of the workforce by demobilization and release of the soldiers to their homes. the workforce by demobilization and release of the soldiers to their homes. They disbanded aviation and artillery air defense headquarters of the They disbanded aviation and artillery air defense headquarters of the Undersecretary of State creating Air Commandment which is one of its major Undersecretary of State creating Air Commandment which is one of its major units subordinated to the State: Division 1 had two aviation squadrons, an units subordinated to the State: Division 1 had two aviation squadrons, an organized fleet for military and aviation schools. After the return of the organized fleet for military and aviation schools. After the return of the Romanian Air Corps units in the Allied Control Commission, the Romanian Romanian Air Corps units in the Allied Control Commission, the Romanian Air Force was reorganized as follows:Air Force was reorganized as follows:1 fighter aircraft fleet equipped with Messerschmitt 109, Flotilla 2 aviation 1 fighter aircraft fleet equipped with Messerschmitt 109, Flotilla 2 aviation IAR-80 fighters; Flotilla 3 assault planes Henschel 129; Flotilla 4 Junkers 87 IAR-80 fighters; Flotilla 3 assault planes Henschel 129; Flotilla 4 Junkers 87 dive planes, Flotilla 5 heavy bombardment airplanes Savoia Marchetti SM 88 dive planes, Flotilla 5 heavy bombardment airplanes Savoia Marchetti SM 88 and Junkers-79 , Flotilla 6 information IAR-39, hydro-aviation Flotilla, and Junkers-79 , Flotilla 6 information IAR-39, hydro-aviation Flotilla, Flotilla air-transport and aerostation. In accordance with Law no. 946/1946 Flotilla air-transport and aerostation. In accordance with Law no. 946/1946 and General Staff Order no. D.L. 01909 of 15 June 1946, the Air Force was and General Staff Order no. D.L. 01909 of 15 June 1946, the Air Force was again reorganized. Instead Air Undersecretary of State, General Inspectorate again reorganized. Instead Air Undersecretary of State, General Inspectorate of Aeronautics was established within the Department for Education, Culture of Aeronautics was established within the Department for Education, Culture and propaganda that had Aeronautics Command as a subordinate with his and propaganda that had Aeronautics Command as a subordinate with his staff, 4-fleet aviation division and group air-transport and aviation training staff, 4-fleet aviation division and group air-transport and aviation training centre.centre.In 1947, Romanian aviation combat units were equipped with 168 aircraft of In 1947, Romanian aviation combat units were equipped with 168 aircraft of various types IAR-80/81 fighters, Messerschmitt 109g, assault aircraft various types IAR-80/81 fighters, Messerschmitt 109g, assault aircraft Henschel 129, heavy bombers Ju-88 and JRS MS-79 dive bombers Ju-87, IAR-Henschel 129, heavy bombers Ju-88 and JRS MS-79 dive bombers Ju-87, IAR-39 aircraft information and Ju-52 transport aircraft. There were also 108 39 aircraft information and Ju-52 transport aircraft. There were also 108 aircrafts in aviation school provision, mostly of Romanian construction.aircrafts in aviation school provision, mostly of Romanian construction.

4. The Cold War4. The Cold War Since Since 19481948, the , the Sovietization of the Sovietization of the

Romanian armyRomanian army saw extensive process saw extensive process that that affected the Air Forceaffected the Air Force. On February . On February 15, 1949 Aviation Command was 15, 1949 Aviation Command was established and it was modelled on the established and it was modelled on the Soviet fleet in aviation regiments. On 15 Soviet fleet in aviation regiments. On 15 June 1949, in accordance with the order June 1949, in accordance with the order no. 45 790 of the General Staff regiments, no. 45 790 of the General Staff regiments, there were established aviation regiments there were established aviation regiments 1, 2, 3 subordinated to the 1st Division, 1, 2, 3 subordinated to the 1st Division, then in august same year they founded then in august same year they founded assault aviation regiment 4, 5 called assault aviation regiment 4, 5 called Aviation Regiment Research and Joint Aviation Regiment Research and Joint Aviation Regiment 6, subordinated Aviation Regiment 6, subordinated Division 2 aviation. Divisions have Division 2 aviation. Divisions have subordinated by 3 aviation regiments subordinated by 3 aviation regiments homogeneous or mixed. In addition to homogeneous or mixed. In addition to indivizible aviation regiments, there were indivizible aviation regiments, there were Aviation Regiment 7 and Transport Aviation Regiment 7 and Transport Aviation Regiment with rear detachment Aviation Regiment with rear detachment stationed at the aerodrome Giuleşti and stationed at the aerodrome Giuleşti and subordinated to Aviation Commandment. subordinated to Aviation Commandment.

By order of General Staff no. 12113 of 1 April 1950, Air Force By order of General Staff no. 12113 of 1 April 1950, Air Force Military was named Air Forces and the commandment - Air Military was named Air Forces and the commandment - Air Force Military Command (CFAM). The factories entered under Force Military Command (CFAM). The factories entered under the Soviet service producing aircraft type IAK-18, OP-2, LA-9, the Soviet service producing aircraft type IAK-18, OP-2, LA-9, TU-2 and IL-10. In 1951 they entered the Romanian Air Force TU-2 and IL-10. In 1951 they entered the Romanian Air Force Military jets IAK-17 and IAK-23 (77 aircraft) and in 1952 the Military jets IAK-17 and IAK-23 (77 aircraft) and in 1952 the MiG-15, MiG-15 bis and S-102 (88 aircraft). After Romania's MiG-15, MiG-15 bis and S-102 (88 aircraft). After Romania's accession to the Treaty of Warsaw, Romanian Military Command accession to the Treaty of Warsaw, Romanian Military Command Air Force had five subordinated aviation divisions and technical Air Force had five subordinated aviation divisions and technical division: Division 97 aircraft, the first large unit equipped with jet division: Division 97 aircraft, the first large unit equipped with jet aircraft IAK-23, Division 23 fighter aircraft, Aviation Division 66 aircraft IAK-23, Division 23 fighter aircraft, Aviation Division 66 hunting assault, aviation division 68 Division 87, Division 34 hunting assault, aviation division 68 Division 87, Division 34 mixed and technical. Each operational division had subordinated mixed and technical. Each operational division had subordinated one battalion and radio company and radio-lighting. By the end of one battalion and radio company and radio-lighting. By the end of 1952, all fighter aviation divisions were equipped with jets1952, all fighter aviation divisions were equipped with jets. .

The first mission of interception The first mission of interception of real target was executed of real target was executed iin n the night of October 28, 1952, in the night of October 28, 1952, in heavy weather by Major heavy weather by Major Dumitru Dragon, who flDumitru Dragon, who flewew a a IAK-23.IAK-23.In the new restructuringIn the new restructuring processprocess ordered by the Soviets, ordered by the Soviets, Anti-Air Defence Command Anti-Air Defence Command (CAAT) was established in (CAAT) was established in September 1956September 1956 getting getting operatioperational in the militaryonal in the military structure structure startingstarting 1 May 1977. 1 May 1977.

In In 19581958 he became the he became the first Romanian Military first Romanian Military Air Force supersonic fighter aircraft - MiG-19Air Force supersonic fighter aircraft - MiG-19. . Three years later, in February 1962 Air Force Three years later, in February 1962 Air Force was completed by one of the best fighters of the was completed by one of the best fighters of the era, MiG-21 F13, which came first in equipping era, MiG-21 F13, which came first in equipping Hunting Aviation Regiment 93. Since 1974, Hunting Aviation Regiment 93. Since 1974, Romanian military aviation began to be Romanian military aviation began to be equipped with jet aircraft built in the countryequipped with jet aircraft built in the country, , the first flight of the first flight of subsonic jet subsonic jet aircraft IAR-93 aircraft IAR-93 was performed on October 31, was performed on October 31, 1974 1974 by by Lieutenant Colonel George Stan, the only Lieutenant Colonel George Stan, the only fighter jets produced other than the Soviet ever fighter jets produced other than the Soviet ever produced and exploited in the countries whose produced and exploited in the countries whose air forces were parts of the Warsaw Pact.air forces were parts of the Warsaw Pact.In In 19621962 they established the they established the first sub first sub helicoptershelicopters, and in 1965 the first unit equipped , and in 1965 the first unit equipped with production equipment Soviet Mi-2 and Mi-with production equipment Soviet Mi-2 and Mi-4. 4.

In 1977 Military Air Force and Air Force In 1977 Military Air Force and Air Force changed their structure and became Air Force changed their structure and became Air Force Command by May 1, 1977. It was established Command by May 1, 1977. It was established as a specialized body of the Ministry of as a specialized body of the Ministry of Defense, seeking preparation and use in Defense, seeking preparation and use in combat aviation, organizational design, combat aviation, organizational design, personnel training, planning and coordination personnel training, planning and coordination of flights in the Romanian airspace, equipping of flights in the Romanian airspace, equipping with combat equipment. It also continued with combat equipment. It also continued renewing the fleet of aircraft, the first 12 MiG-renewing the fleet of aircraft, the first 12 MiG-23 entered into service during July-September 23 entered into service during July-September 1979.1979.

The pThe preparation reparation of theof the technical crew technical crewss wwasas done done inin specialized schools, two specialized schools, two of of themthem being thebeing the most important: most important: "Aurel Vlaicu"Aviation Military "Aurel Vlaicu"Aviation Military School founded in 1953School founded in 1953 and "Traian and "Traian VuiaVuia""TTechnical echnical MMilitary ilitary AAviation viation SSchool (1954) located in Medias, chool (1954) located in Medias, which became School of aviation.which became School of aviation.Academic training of aviation Academic training of aviation personnel personnel wawas done in the Technical s done in the Technical Military Academy and Military Military Academy and Military Academy, which haAcademy, which haveve prepared since prepared since 1976 aviation engineers, engineers 1976 aviation engineers, engineers officers in similar specialties: officers in similar specialties: airplane-engine, electrical machines, airplane-engine, electrical machines, board, radio and radar, weapon on board, radio and radar, weapon on the system. Some military aviation the system. Some military aviation engineers were trained at the faculty engineers were trained at the faculty profile at the Polytechnic Institute of profile at the Polytechnic Institute of Bucharest.Bucharest.

In In 19721972, by Decree no. 419 of 23 , by Decree no. 419 of 23 October and the Council of October and the Council of Ministers Decision no. 1303 of Ministers Decision no. 1303 of November 1, civil aviation was November 1, civil aviation was transferred from the Ministry of transferred from the Ministry of Defence, to the Civil Aviation Defence, to the Civil Aviation Commandment – Commandment – TAROMTAROM, which , which was createdwas created. Sanitary aviation, . Sanitary aviation, sport aviation, 3 centres and 26 sport aviation, 3 centres and 26 meteorological stations meteorological stations undertaken by the Ministry of undertaken by the Ministry of Agriculture – they were all Agriculture – they were all subordinated to the new subordinated to the new commandment.commandment.

On 6 April 1976, by Decree no. 84, Civil On 6 April 1976, by Decree no. 84, Civil Aviation Commandment-TAROM has Aviation Commandment-TAROM has ceased to exist and in its place the ceased to exist and in its place the Department of Civil Aviation was created, Department of Civil Aviation was created, also belonging in the Ministry of Defence.also belonging in the Ministry of Defence.On On May 14, 1981May 14, 1981, at 8:16 p.m. GMT, , at 8:16 p.m. GMT, "Soyuz-40“rocket was launched "Soyuz-40“rocket was launched from from Baikonur Cosmodrome in the Soviet Union Baikonur Cosmodrome in the Soviet Union in a joint Romanian-Soviet flight with a in a joint Romanian-Soviet flight with a crew consisting of an engineer Lieutenant crew consisting of an engineer Lieutenant aviation-Colonel Leonid Popov and aviation-Colonel Leonid Popov and Dumitru Prunariu, commander of the Dumitru Prunariu, commander of the spacecraft.spacecraft. For 7 days, Romanian For 7 days, Romanian cosmonaut conducted various scientific cosmonaut conducted various scientific experiments on board of the orbital experiments on board of the orbital complex Saliut-6 - Soyuz-40, returning to complex Saliut-6 - Soyuz-40, returning to earth on earth on 22 May 198122 May 1981..In December In December 19891989, just days before the , just days before the start of the anticommunist revolution, start of the anticommunist revolution, MiG-29 entered the Romanian Air Force. MiG-29 entered the Romanian Air Force.

5.Transition Period5.Transition Period After anti-communist revolution in Romania After anti-communist revolution in Romania

in in 19891989, the Air Force was given priority in , the Air Force was given priority in the reorganization of the Roman army.the reorganization of the Roman army.In 1993, In 1993, the necessity to align with Western the necessity to align with Western structures by joining the Air Force Anti-Air structures by joining the Air Force Anti-Air Defence TroopsDefence Troops, Aviation and Air Defense , Aviation and Air Defense was founded as a structure that brings was founded as a structure that brings together common body aircraft, artillery and together common body aircraft, artillery and anti-aircraft missiles and radar. anti-aircraft missiles and radar. Restructuring of the units has been Restructuring of the units has been continuing at a rapid pace to meet the new continuing at a rapid pace to meet the new guidelines Romania's political and budgetary guidelines Romania's political and budgetary constraints imposed by the transition period. constraints imposed by the transition period. The decision was taken to The decision was taken to modernize with the modernize with the MiG-21 Lancer programsMiG-21 Lancer programs the following the following aircraft types: IAR-330 Puma and IAR-99 aircraft types: IAR-330 Puma and IAR-99 Falcon. Romania also purchased the first C-Falcon. Romania also purchased the first C-130 aircraft, being the first country in the 130 aircraft, being the first country in the former Warsaw Treaty bringing in service former Warsaw Treaty bringing in service such aircraft to meet the needs of such aircraft to meet the needs of transporting troops and running operations transporting troops and running operations in keeping peace missions. in keeping peace missions.

OnOn June 1, June 1, 20002000 dispositions dispositions ccaame me in force in force toto establish the structure establish the structure and and the the current namecurrent name - - Air Force. Air Force.As a rAs a result of budgetary esult of budgetary constraints, a large number of constraints, a large number of units are restructured or units are restructured or disbanded and a number of disbanded and a number of aircraft, radars and missiles that aircraft, radars and missiles that could ensure compatibility with could ensure compatibility with NATO forces and structuresNATO forces and structures are are gradually removed from service. gradually removed from service. Thus aircraft MiG-15, MiG-17, Thus aircraft MiG-15, MiG-17, MiG-23, MiG-29 Hong -5MiG-23, MiG-29 Hong -5 are are gradually gradually removed fromremoved from service. service.

World Aviation World Aviation

In the In the '20s'20s, acrobat aviators and pilots , acrobat aviators and pilots who won flight awards have turned who won flight awards have turned into a pop culture phenomenon. But into a pop culture phenomenon. But its transformation into a viable its transformation into a viable transportation required transportation required management, engineering, talent and management, engineering, talent and luck.luck.Glenn Martin began building an Glenn Martin began building an aircraft shortly after the Wright aircraft shortly after the Wright brothers' first flight, keeping his brothers' first flight, keeping his company even after the World War company even after the World War II with little improvement contracts II with little improvement contracts and projects. Leading engineers, as and projects. Leading engineers, as Lawrence Bell, James McDonnell and Lawrence Bell, James McDonnell and Donald Douglas worked for him. In Donald Douglas worked for him. In 19291929, Martin built the , Martin built the first factoryfirst factory designed to produce designed to produce metal planesmetal planes. .

Glenn Curtiss Glenn Curtiss increased mechanical strength increased mechanical strength of flights. The talented engine builder, of flights. The talented engine builder, Curtiss made the first airplane flight in 1908, Curtiss made the first airplane flight in 1908, when he was 30. In the following year, he when he was 30. In the following year, he won two awards for speed at the won two awards for speed at the international air demonstration which took international air demonstration which took place in Reims, France, flying about 75 place in Reims, France, flying about 75 km/h. He designed a plane to take off and km/h. He designed a plane to take off and land on water and his biplanes were the first land on water and his biplanes were the first to have made operations on the deck of a to have made operations on the deck of a warship. Moreover, his company built the warship. Moreover, his company built the first aircraft (NC-4) who crossed the Atlantic. first aircraft (NC-4) who crossed the Atlantic.

World War II and then the Cold World War II and then the Cold War imposed both airplanes and War imposed both airplanes and pilots flying faster at higher pilots flying faster at higher altitudes, using more power. altitudes, using more power. Common sense and science have Common sense and science have helped Air Force to face these helped Air Force to face these challenges.challenges.Jeppesen Elrey Jeppesen Elrey saved the lives of saved the lives of other other pilotspilots, , publishing the field publishing the field notesnotes taken by him as he flew in taken by him as he flew in the '30s, the pilot of the U.S. mail. the '30s, the pilot of the U.S. mail. Signaling cues, recording rates Signaling cues, recording rates obstacles and explaining how to obstacles and explaining how to locate and deal with airports, locate and deal with airports, 'Maps Jeppe' gave vital 'Maps Jeppe' gave vital information for pilots flying at information for pilots flying at night or in bad weather.night or in bad weather.

Chuck Yeager Chuck Yeager joined the Army Air joined the Army Air Corps and was trained as a mechanic. Corps and was trained as a mechanic. May tariu has earned a reputation as May tariu has earned a reputation as the flight in the Second World War, the flight in the Second World War, breaking down the 12 German breaking down the 12 German planes. After the war he became a planes. After the war he became a test pilot, flying with each test pilot, flying with each experimental device developed by the experimental device developed by the Air Force. In 1947, Yeager pushed a Air Force. In 1947, Yeager pushed a Bell XS-1 at a speed of 1.125km/h, Bell XS-1 at a speed of 1.125km/h, Mach 1.06 and 12,800 m altitude. Mach 1.06 and 12,800 m altitude. Nobody had flown so quickly. In Nobody had flown so quickly. In twenty years, Yeager executed 127 twenty years, Yeager executed 127 combat missions in the Vietnam War. combat missions in the Vietnam War. Once recruited in 1969 became Once recruited in 1969 became brigadier general in the Air Force. brigadier general in the Air Force.

Alexander de Seversky Alexander de Seversky hashas lost a leg lost a leg fighting for Russia in 1915, but fighting for Russia in 1915, but he he returned to the airreturned to the airplaneplane with a with a wooden prosthesis and wooden prosthesis and during the during the war he war he shot downshot down 13 German 13 German planes. Moving to the U.S. in 1918, planes. Moving to the U.S. in 1918, the Seversky created the Seversky created a a specifically specifically aiming device for the Army Air aiming device for the Army Air Service. Seversky Aviation Service. Seversky Aviation Corporation built amphibious Corporation built amphibious record speed and designed fighters record speed and designed fighters that led to robust Republic P-47 that led to robust Republic P-47 Thunderbolt model of the Second Thunderbolt model of the Second World War.World War.

William Lear William Lear left school and left school and went to patent his 150 went to patent his 150 inventions in aviation. In inventions in aviation. In 1959 he began work on a 1959 he began work on a plane that would give plane that would give business plane the speed business plane the speed and comfort of a jet liner on and comfort of a jet liner on a small scale. Since 1963, he a small scale. Since 1963, he has sold over $ 500,000 a has sold over $ 500,000 a piece, thus imposing a piece, thus imposing a brand synonymous with brand synonymous with luxury and privilege. luxury and privilege.

History of flightHistory of flight

Dream of flying began with the legend of Dream of flying began with the legend of Icarus, son Icarus, son of Daedalusof Daedalus. Minos King closed them both in a . Minos King closed them both in a labyrinth, but they have made two wings of wax labyrinth, but they have made two wings of wax and feathers, rose in the air trying to escape. Not and feathers, rose in the air trying to escape. Not taking into consideration his father warning and taking into consideration his father warning and approaching the sun, the wax melted from the approaching the sun, the wax melted from the heat and Icarus fell into the sea and died. heat and Icarus fell into the sea and died.

In the Renaissance, Leonardo da Vinci's famous thought designed, among other fantastic machines, a machine that man could fly with. Carefully studying the flight of birds, he designed a machine called "orthoptera". Its wings would have to be moved by the hands and feet of a man, a procedure that proved to be impossible. Leonardo's plans then fell into oblivion for a long time.

Later in the eighteenth century, Italian Later in the eighteenth century, Italian Francesco Lana-Francesco Lana-Terzi Terzi imagines a flying boat, which would have to be able imagines a flying boat, which would have to be able to levitate by four metal ballsto levitate by four metal balls filled with filled with air. This fantastic air. This fantastic project project was was published in 1670 and remained published in 1670 and remained only on paperonly on paper. . However, the late eighteenth century, the man managed to However, the late eighteenth century, the man managed to climb into the sky filled with climb into the sky filled with hot air balloonhot air balloon. In the next . In the next century are built first century are built first glidersgliders (with arched wings as the (with arched wings as the birds) by birds) by Otto LilienthalOtto Lilienthal, who died in such an attempt to , who died in such an attempt to conquer the air. But the glider was the first step toward conquer the air. But the glider was the first step toward building a machine heavier than air building a machine heavier than air ableable to move under its to move under its own power. It will be own power. It will be the the airplane.airplane.

In 1897, Frenchman In 1897, Frenchman Clement Ader Clement Ader managed to rise into the air managed to rise into the air with a device built by himself, which resembled a large, strange with a device built by himself, which resembled a large, strange bird which was put into operation by a propeller engine, which bird which was put into operation by a propeller engine, which made the airplane to budge from the ground. Some believe that made the airplane to budge from the ground. Some believe that this was the first airplane ever to fly. In fact, "flight" was his this was the first airplane ever to fly. In fact, "flight" was his jump of several meters. Probably the first truly successful flight jump of several meters. Probably the first truly successful flight was performed by the brothers was performed by the brothers Wilbur and Orville Wright Wilbur and Orville Wright a few a few years later, in 1903. These Americans were able to raise the years later, in 1903. These Americans were able to raise the airplane for 12 seconds, the flight taking place in Kitty Hawk, airplane for 12 seconds, the flight taking place in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina (USA). North Carolina (USA). Thereafter Thereafter many types of airplanes many types of airplanes began began to be built in America and Europe. Those who were to be built in America and Europe. Those who were witnesses witnesses pursuing “pursuing “the the flight" were forced to sflight" were forced to staytay on the grass to see if the on the grass to see if the wheelswheels of the plane of the plane were lifted or not were lifted or not from thefrom the groundground. . In In time time airplanes were improved and managed to fly higher and higher airplanes were improved and managed to fly higher and higher and faster.and faster.

Considered an unattainable dream, flying and passionate Considered an unattainable dream, flying and passionate people and made them invent different and strange people and made them invent different and strange machines that try to get up in the air. But barely a century machines that try to get up in the air. But barely a century ago, ago, the Wright brothers the Wright brothers were able for the first time in were able for the first time in America, to perform the first flight with a heavier-than-air America, to perform the first flight with a heavier-than-air device. Their airplane flew just a few feet. From then until device. Their airplane flew just a few feet. From then until today, the planes have evolved since then to perform flights today, the planes have evolved since then to perform flights between continents, having a speed exceeding the sound. between continents, having a speed exceeding the sound. All these achievements are due to the greatest inventors, All these achievements are due to the greatest inventors, who most often piloted their own planes, risking their lives. who most often piloted their own planes, risking their lives.

Like any new invention, the plane was received at first with lots of doubts. Like any new invention, the plane was received at first with lots of doubts. For a long time to be a pilot was considered a great courage, because in For a long time to be a pilot was considered a great courage, because in the first years flying with such a fragile device was very risky. The first the first years flying with such a fragile device was very risky. The first airplanes were built more of wood and cloth cables and their wheels were airplanes were built more of wood and cloth cables and their wheels were like those of the bicycle. Builders thought that the planes had to be light in like those of the bicycle. Builders thought that the planes had to be light in order to levitate. Although aviation had barely been invented, the fast order to levitate. Although aviation had barely been invented, the fast progress took place immediately. In 1908, Henri Farman managed to fly a progress took place immediately. In 1908, Henri Farman managed to fly a distance of one kilometre, and a year later, another Frenchman, Louis distance of one kilometre, and a year later, another Frenchman, Louis Bleriot, performed a flight across the English Channel. In 1910, the first Bleriot, performed a flight across the English Channel. In 1910, the first plane to be lifted in the air at over 1000 meters altitude is the Jorge plane to be lifted in the air at over 1000 meters altitude is the Jorge Chavez’s plane which flew crossing the Alps, but it crashed on landing. In Chavez’s plane which flew crossing the Alps, but it crashed on landing. In 1911 the first flight at night takes place, and a year later for the first time 1911 the first flight at night takes place, and a year later for the first time parachute jumps are performed from aircraft. parachute jumps are performed from aircraft.

As a basic structure, a As a basic structure, a planeplane consists of an elongated body, called the consists of an elongated body, called the hull, which is part of its core. Inside, the front is where the pilot stays. hull, which is part of its core. Inside, the front is where the pilot stays. At first, his cabin was not closed, so the pilot had to wear a leather At first, his cabin was not closed, so the pilot had to wear a leather helmet and goggles, because there were strong currents. To keep the helmet and goggles, because there were strong currents. To keep the plane in the air, it is equipped with two large wings, each on either side plane in the air, it is equipped with two large wings, each on either side of the fuselage. A twin plane is called biplane. The propeller, which of the fuselage. A twin plane is called biplane. The propeller, which makes the machine move in the air, is in front, and it’s driven by an makes the machine move in the air, is in front, and it’s driven by an engine. In time, engines were improved, increasing the speed of the engine. In time, engines were improved, increasing the speed of the aircraft. aircraft. SeaplaneSeaplane is an aircraft which, instead of landing on the is an aircraft which, instead of landing on the ground, floats on the water. It also takes off from the water and rises ground, floats on the water. It also takes off from the water and rises in the air. Instead of wheels, it has some devices for floating, which are in the air. Instead of wheels, it has some devices for floating, which are filled with air and thus it does not sink. Seaplanes first appeared in filled with air and thus it does not sink. Seaplanes first appeared in 1910.1910.

During the World War I the warring countries realized that the plane During the World War I the warring countries realized that the plane can be used as a very effective weapon, first for recognition, for can be used as a very effective weapon, first for recognition, for hunting (tracking and destroying other aircraft in flight) and for hunting (tracking and destroying other aircraft in flight) and for bombardment. As a recognition weapon, it could not only observe bombardment. As a recognition weapon, it could not only observe from above the enemy positions, but it could also gather aerial photos from above the enemy positions, but it could also gather aerial photos of the surveiled area. Bombing planes were in the air to throw bombs of the surveiled area. Bombing planes were in the air to throw bombs up to 1000 pounds each! up to 1000 pounds each!

After World War I aviation performance has greatly increased. After World War I aviation performance has greatly increased. Aircrafts began to travel long distances to carry letters and parcels Aircrafts began to travel long distances to carry letters and parcels which facilitated communication. Scheduled airlines were established which facilitated communication. Scheduled airlines were established and passenger planes appeared as well. In 1927, Charles Lindbergh and passenger planes appeared as well. In 1927, Charles Lindbergh crosses the Atlantic for the first time, thereby linking by air Europe crosses the Atlantic for the first time, thereby linking by air Europe and North America. In 1931, the Pacific is a non-stop crossing from and North America. In 1931, the Pacific is a non-stop crossing from Japan to the United States. Aviation is a sport and aviation rallies can Japan to the United States. Aviation is a sport and aviation rallies can see very spectacular acrobatics. see very spectacular acrobatics.

With World War II, aircraft began to fly at dizzying speeds With World War II, aircraft began to fly at dizzying speeds and become destructive at bombing. Germany’s first jet and become destructive at bombing. Germany’s first jet used in the late war reached up to almost twice the speed used in the late war reached up to almost twice the speed of an ordinary plane. Jet propeller was no longer used, but of an ordinary plane. Jet propeller was no longer used, but it was propelled by its engine, like a rocket. Nowadays, it was propelled by its engine, like a rocket. Nowadays, planes of this type have become common, especially in the planes of this type have become common, especially in the military aviation. Passenger airlines are equipped with military aviation. Passenger airlines are equipped with aircrafts that can carry hundreds of people on board, aircrafts that can carry hundreds of people on board, linking to each other the most remote places on the planet. linking to each other the most remote places on the planet.

Romanian aeronauticsRomanian aeronautics

FFirstirst Romanian Romanian whwho builo builtt flying machines and flying machines and piloted thempiloted them wwasas Aurel VlaicuAurel Vlaicu. H. He created in 1906 the first self-propelled e created in 1906 the first self-propelled planeplane w which washich was heavier than air. Aurel Vlaicu graduated heavier than air. Aurel Vlaicu graduated

from the Polytechnic of Munich, in 1907, then worked as an from the Polytechnic of Munich, in 1907, then worked as an engineer at Opel engineer at Opel factory infactory in Russelheim. He returned home Russelheim. He returned home in 1908 and began building his first plane, a very successful in 1908 and began building his first plane, a very successful device, extremely stable and easy to handle, for that time, device, extremely stable and easy to handle, for that time, which allowed him to win various prizes in international which allowed him to win various prizes in international

confrontation, competconfrontation, competinging with other illustrious pioneers of with other illustrious pioneers of aviation, as Frenchman Rolland Garos. Unfortunately, on aviation, as Frenchman Rolland Garos. Unfortunately, on September 13, 1913, Vlaicu crashSeptember 13, 1913, Vlaicu crasheded near Campina, in an near Campina, in an

attempt to fly attempt to fly over over CarpathiansCarpathians dying in the plane accident dying in the plane accident caused by his heart attackcaused by his heart attack..

Romanian inventors

1. AUREL VLAICU1. AUREL VLAICU

2. TRAIAN VUIA2. TRAIAN VUIA

3. HENRI COANDA3. HENRI COANDA

Students: Rotaru GratielaStudents: Rotaru Gratiela Dumitru DamarisDumitru Damaris Dumitru DaianaDumitru Daiana Boboia AlexandraBoboia Alexandra