Romania is taking a major step in strengthening its national security. The country will become the first in Europe to buy Israel’s powerful Iron Dome air defense system. Romanian Defense Minister Ionuț Moșteanu confirmed the news during a televised interview on the national broadcaster TVR.
Romania Confirms Deal for Iron Dome Defense System
Israel built the Iron Dome, a well-known defense structure. It identifies and eliminates short-range rockets and missiles before they can strike military sites or civilian populations. The Israeli military has already used this system in actual combat to defend places like Tel Aviv against enemy attacks.
Romania hopes to complete the Iron Dome contract in the fall of 2025. The formal name of the system in this situation is SHORAD-VSHORAD. They are referred to as Very Short-Range Air Defense and Short-Range Air Defense. These systems protect military sites, cities, and airports against incoming missile attacks.
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According to Minister Moşteanu, “We need these defensive missile batteries, but we don’t have them.” He explained that the same technology that protects Tel Aviv will now be used to protect Romania. He said the new system will help defend not just the military, but also major cities in case of any threat.
Iron Dome: What It Does and Why It Matters
The Iron Dome system stops threats that come from the sky. When enemy forces launch a missile or rocket toward a city, the Iron Dome detects it and destroys it in the air with another missile. This helps protect people, homes, airports, and other important places from damage.
The technology has already saved lives in places like Israel. In real-time war situations, Iron Dome has shown it can block most incoming missiles. This is why it is known around the world as one of the most trusted air defense systems.
Now, Romania will become the first European country to bring this Israeli technology into its defense forces. This move is seen as a big change in how Romania is choosing to protect itself. So far, no other European country has purchased the Iron Dome.
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Romania’s purchase shows its commitment to investing in modern defense systems. These new missile batteries will become an important part of the country’s air defense.
The Iron Dome deal is part of a larger plan by the Romanian government to boost its military strength. The country is focusing on defending its airspace and making sure its people and infrastructure are safe.
Romania’s Defense Spending and Black Sea Focus
Minister Moșteanu also gave details about how much money Romania is putting into defense. He said that nearly 30% of the defense budget is currently being spent on military purchases. Romania will also purchase naval corvettes and short-range missiles in addition to the Iron Dome.
A corvette is a small and fast warship. These will help protect Romania’s coastal areas and contribute to the country’s naval power.
The Romanian government is also paying close attention to the Black Sea region. Minister Moșteanu said that this area is very important for both European and American security. He mentioned that there cannot be a strategy for the Black Sea without including Turkey, which is the strongest country in the region.
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This focus on the Black Sea shows that Romania is aligning its defense plans with international security goals.
In 2025, newly appointed President Nicușor Dan is anticipated to unveil a new national defense policy. The Black Sea plan and other crucial measures to strengthen national defense will be part of this approach.
By acquiring the Iron Dome, boosting its defense budget, and concentrating on key regions like the Black Sea, Romania is making significant efforts to strengthen its security. This move sets Romania apart as a leader in European defense modernization.
