DefMin Fifor: We are trying to launch modernization programme for "Soim" aircraft as soon as possible

Minister of National Defence, Mihai Fifor, on Thursday stated they were trying to launch the modernization programme for the "Soim" [hawk - editor's note] aircraft as soon as possible. 

"The hawk is Romanian aviation's and Romanian defence industry's symbol. This is a hundred per cent Romanian product, we are all proud of. We had a very good understanding with the Ministry of Research and the Ministry of Economy. Basically, two weeks ago already, the first "Soim" aircraft was brought to the Plant in Craiova and as soon as possible we are trying to launch this modernization programme for this apparatus," stated Fifor, at the end of the ceremony occasioned by the naming of the Technical Military Academy in Bucharest "Ferdinand I." 

The Minister of Defence explained it was about "21 aircraft" that, once modernized, would serve as training aircraft for the pilots who will operate the F16 aircraft of the Romanian Army."