Romania Plans Interceptor Drone Buys After Russian Airspace Violations

The Government of Romania is seeking to acquire U.S.-made MEROPS interceptor drones to bolster its counter-drone capabilities after a spike in Russian airspace violations. By April 28, 2026, Romania recorded seven drone incursions and 18 air policing scrambles, coinciding with Russia's long-range strikes on Ukrainian targets near the NATO frontier.

A significant escalation occurred when a drone landed in Galati, damaging property and forcing the evacuation of approximately 200 people. While Romanian law allows for the engagement of drones to protect lives and property, officials have maintained a policy of restraint to avoid direct involvement in the conflict.

Russia's ambassador in Bucharest, Vladimir Lipayev, rejected official protests regarding these incursions, describing the Galati incident as a provocation by Kyiv. In response to the reckless behavior of Russian aircraft, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte affirmed the alliance's commitment to defending all member territory.