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E902 Squadron IAR-99 Soim Coin - 5 cm diameter
This challenge coin is inspired by the identity and tradition of the Romanian Air Force, being dedicated to the air transport units within the 90th Air Transport Base and the 902nd Aviation Transport, Operations and Aerophotogrammetry Squadron. Made of metal with embossed elements, the coin has a diameter of 50.8 mm and features two sides with distinct symbolism, inspired by the heraldry and tradition of Romanian military aviation.
The obverse depicts the emblem inspired by the 90th Air Transport Base, with two golden griffins positioned symmetrically around a stylized propeller, symbol of transport aviation. The griffins, classic elements of military heraldry, suggest strength, vigilance and protection, and the blue background evokes airspace and aviation tradition.
The reverse of the coin is dedicated to the 902nd Squadron, integrating the colors of the Romanian flag and symbols of the squadron's missions. In the center is the figure of a Spartan, representing courage, discipline and fighting spirit, superimposed on a globe symbolizing the extensive area of operations. The squadron operates Alenia C-27J Spartan tactical transport aircraft, as well as Antonov An-30 aircraft used for aerial photogrammetry and aerial observation missions.
With its detailed design and strong symbolism, this coin represents a collector's item dedicated to military aviation enthusiasts and collectors of insignia inspired by the tradition of Romanian transport aviation.
Air Transport Base 90 performs air transport missions for the benefit of the Air Force and other elements of the National Defense System, both in national airspace and in crisis or conflict zones, within missions under UN, OSCE or NATO mandate, as well as missions in support of local institutions and authorities in civil emergency situations.
Air Transport Base 90 is named after Aviator Commander Gheorghe Bănciulescu – a famous transport aviation pilot. He was the first pilot in the world who, after suffering a plane crash, continued his activity flying with prostheses on both legs. His heroic activity ended suddenly at only 37 years of age in an air raid in Cairo, being killed by the flu.
The year 1949 was, for military transport aviation, the year of the establishment of the first unit, namely the 8th Transport Aviation Regiment, deployed at the “Romeo Popescu” airfield.
In order to meet the challenges and responsibilities of executing flights of special importance, in 1971 a specialized structure was established – the special squadron – which in 1972 increased its structure, becoming the 50th Transport Aviation Flotilla.
Over the years, combat missions have determined a special dynamic, both in terms of the structural composition and the equipment of military transport aviation.
In 1995, Air Transport Base 90 was established, and in 1996, military transport aviation took an important step towards achieving interoperability with NATO structures, by equipping it with C-130 Hercules aircraft, which doubled its transport capacity and range. In 2004, after a reorganization process, it was also equipped with IAR-330 SOCAT helicopters, and in 2010, it received the first C 27 J SPARTAN aircraft. Air Transport Base 90 also has aeromedical evacuation (MEDEVAC) capacity.
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