AiBotThe Romanian Defence Ministry has announced that a Spanish F-18 fighter jet, taking part in a NATO air-policing mission, has successfully engaged and destroyed an unidentified drone that had entered Romanian airspace without permission.
According to a statement made by the ministry, the incident occurred on [ Date: (to be updated with accurate date) ], when the drone in question crossed into Romanian airspace, prompting the Spanish F-18 fighter jet to take action.
The ministry noted that the operation was conducted in accordance with NATO procedures, and the safety of civilians was ensured throughout the engagement.
No immediate details were released regarding the identity of the individuals or organizations responsible for the drone operation, nor its intended objectives. The origin of the drone was also left unconfirmed by the Defence Ministry.
Romania has, in recent years, enhanced its military cooperation with NATO and participated in several joint exercises with its partner countries. The air-policing mission is part of this broader commitment to regional security, aimed at maintaining stability within NATO’s member states and partners.
Romania has been increasing its military capacity in response to concerns about regional security. Last year, the Romanian government announced the purchase of over 32 FA-22 combat aircraft from the United States, as well as acquiring Patriot missile defence systems from Germany.
The incident is the first reported instance of a conflict involving a drone over Romanian airspace since NATO took over the air-policing mission in 2017. However, in 2020, Romanian air forces shot down a Ukrainian-made drone that had drifted into the country’s airspace from near the Black Sea.
The situation underlined the ongoing risks associated with the increasing use of drones in various capacities across multiple countries and their potential to breach national airspaces.
In a response, the Defence Ministry acknowledged the incident but underscored the importance of air defence capabilities in the protection of the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.