Romania has recently intensified its military response to drone incursions, particularly those suspected to be linked to Russian operations. On July 26, 2026, two Romanian F-16 fighter jets were scrambled from the Fetești airbase under NATO's operational command to intercept and shoot down a drone over the Black Sea. This incident marks the fourth recent downing of a drone violating NATO airspace, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region. Romanian President Nicusor Dan confirmed that one of the earlier intercepted drones was identified as a Shahed type, commonly used by the Russian Federation in its military actions against Ukraine.
The drone downing occurred in the Sulina-Chilia area, which is within Romania's territorial waters. This action is part of a broader NATO strategy to enhance airspace security along its eastern border, particularly in response to the increasing frequency of drone threats. Col. Martin O'Donnell, a spokesperson for NATO's Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, emphasized that NATO remains vigilant and prepared to defend against any threats. The Romanian Air Force has been actively involved in these operations, with pilots and aircraft stationed in Lithuania to bolster NATO's eastern flank.
Romania's military capabilities have been further strengthened with the acquisition of the MEROPS counter-drone system, designed to neutralize incoming threats like the Shahed drones. This system utilizes relatively inexpensive drones to intercept and destroy hostile drones, enhancing Romania's defensive posture. The recent incidents have raised concerns about the potential spillover of the conflict in Ukraine into NATO territory, especially after a Russian drone mistakenly struck an apartment building in eastern Romania in May, injuring two individuals.
The Romanian government has expressed its strong condemnation of these violations of airspace, asserting that such actions by the Russian Federation are unacceptable. Belgium, a NATO ally, has voiced its support for Romania, emphasizing the ongoing threat posed by Russia's military actions to European security. The presence of 300 Belgian troops in Romania as part of NATO's eastern flank force underscores the alliance's commitment to collective defense in the face of these challenges.
