Romania Intends to Acquire Short and very Short-Range Air Defence Systems

The Romanian government has initiated the bidding process for short-range air defense systems, valued at up to $2.1 billion, creating a competitive environment for French and Israeli defense manufacturers with longstanding connections to Romania.

According to a recent tender notice from the Romanian Ministry of Defense, the country is in search of short-range air defense (SHORAD) and very short-range air defense (VSHORAD) systems. Romania interest in acquiring these weapon systems predates Russia invasion of Ukraine, with a focus on improving defenses against short-range aerial threats dating back to 2019.

While the longer-range segment has been addressed with the purchase of the U.S.-made Patriot system, Romania aims to fortify its capabilities further through the acquisition of SHORAD and VSHORAD systems. These defense assets will integrate into the broader NATO-wide network known as the Integrated Air and Missile Defense concept.

The tender, initially planned for the previous year, has now been officially launched, according to an anonymous Romanian defense ministry official. Defense companies, including MBDA, a pan-European missile maker, have expressed interest in the Romanian SHORAD-VSHORAD program.

A spokesman for MBDA noted the company intent to provide the most suitable solution for the Romanian Armed Forces, highlighting the potential use of the VL Mica system. Additionally, discussions are underway regarding a joint Mistral missile-defense acquisition, considering Romania strategic ties with France.

Israel Rafael, known for the Spyder air defense system, is also speculated to join the bidding process. However, the company has not disclosed its plans. In 2018, Rafael entered into an agreement with Romanian aerospace company Romaero for an industrial partnership focused on local production of air defense weapons.

The tender for the Romanian air defense systems is scheduled to open on January 8, 2024. It is anticipated that bidders from Europe, the United States, and Israel will actively participate in the competitive process.

Romania decision to bolster its national defense capabilities through this strategic move underscores its commitment to adapting to the evolving security landscape and strengthening military preparedness