Romania is set to become the first European country to acquire the Iron Dome air and missile defense system, a landmark move that marks a deepening of defense ties with Israel.
In a recent interview with state broadcaster TVR, Romanian Defense Minister Ionuț Moșteanu confirmed that the country plans to sign the procurement agreement in the upcoming autumn season.
The Iron Dome system, developed by Israel’s state-owned defense company Rafael, is a proven short- to very-short-range air defense solution.
It integrates three core components: Elta’s multi-mission radar for detecting threats, Tamir interceptor missiles for neutralization, and mPrest’s command-and-control software for coordinating responses.
Capable of intercepting aerial threats such as enemy aircraft, drones, and incoming missiles, the system offers coverage of up to 70 kilometers (43 miles) and can operate at altitudes reaching 10,000 meters (32,800 feet).
With this acquisition, Romania is significantly boosting its national air defense capabilities while making history as Iron Dome’s first user in Europe.