Romania Scrambles Jets After Drone Breach Amid Ukraine Conflict

Romania’s defense forces activated fighter jets on the morning of October 25, 2023, after an attack drone entered its airspace amid ongoing Russian strikes on Ukraine. The drone first crossed into Romanian territory, flying approximately eight kilometers between Periprava and Chilia Veche in Tulcea County before exiting back into Ukraine.

In response to the incursion, the Romanian Ministry of National Defense confirmed that two German Eurofighter Typhoons and two Romanian F-16s were dispatched from Mihail Kogalniceanu and Campia Turzii Air Bases. The aircraft were scrambled to monitor and address the potential threat posed by the unidentified drone.

The drone’s trajectory included a brief reentry into Romanian airspace after crossing into Moldova. It headed towards Foltești in Galati County, where the Romanian Air Force ultimately lost its radar signal. According to the defense ministry, the drone “reappeared intermittently on radar for approximately 12 minutes” during this period of heightened tension.

The Romanian authorities emphasized that there were no reports of the drone impacting the ground or causing any damage. This incident highlights the increasing complexity of air security in the region as military activities escalate in response to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

As tensions remain high, Romania continues to enhance its air defense capabilities. The recent events underscore the need for vigilance in monitoring airspace and addressing any potential threats, particularly as regional stability is challenged by the ongoing war.