“The PATRIOT system is one of the most efficient air defence systems available,” said Romanian Defence Minister, Nicolae Ciuca during the ceremony. Three more PATRIOT systems will be delivered to the Romanian Air Force by the end of 2022. 

Security in the Black Sea region is vital in ensuring the security of us all

"The Black Sea region has a special strategic importance, not only to Romania, but to the entire Euro-Atlantic area. Security in this area, marked by complex and constantly evolving challenges, is vital in ensuring the security of all of us,” he added.

Achieving an operational capability of this first PATRIOT system is a first step in obtaining a robust air defence capability for Romania, which will make a significant contribution to strengthening NATO's deterrence and defence posture on the eastern flank. Romania is the 17th country and the seventh NATO member to acquire the PATRIOT system. The acquisition is the first major delivered after the signing – in 2015 – of the national political agreement on increasing Romanian defence spending. 

“Starting today, the Romanian Armed Forces have one of the most efficient long-range air defence systems, all-weather capable of fulfilling the full range of missions in the area of responsibility," he concluded at the ceremony at Capu Midia National Air Defence Training Centre.