“These are defensive missile batteries that we don’t have, and we need them,” the minister stated. “If I were to give an example, when we see images from Tel Aviv when the Iranians attack and we see the Iron Dome, that is SHORAD-VSHORAD, and it protects Tel Aviv. It will protect us as well. Whether it’s airports, military bases, or, God forbid, we need to defend our cities.”
The Iron Dome, developed by Israel, is designed to intercept short and very short-range missile threats, providing effective protection for critical infrastructure and urban areas. Romania’s move to adopt the system marks a significant shift in its defence acquisition policy.
Moșteanu noted that military procurement currently accounts for nearly 30% of the national defence budget. Future purchases, he added, will also include short-range missiles and corvettes.
The minister also emphasised the strategic importance of the Black Sea region, underlining its relevance in both European and American security frameworks. He said President Nicușor Dan, who recently assumed office, will present a new national defence strategy in 2025.
“There is no Black Sea strategy without Turkey. It is the strongest. We will have to take these steps, these discussions, and it will be in the national defence strategy, there will be a Black Sea strategy,” Moșteanu said.
