U.S. Navy holds change of command at Aegis Ashore missile defence site in Romania, Deveselu base

Foster assumed command in December 2024 and maintained 100 per cent mission readiness throughout his tenure. His command included continuous ballistic missile defence coverage for Europe and NATO during the Israel–Iran 12-Day War and across two named operations.

In addition to operational responsibilities, Foster supported the subcommittee on the implementation of U.S.–Romania Bilateral Agreements and the annual High-Level Defense Group. He was commissioned through the United States Naval Academy and will take up his next assignment aboard USS John F. Kennedy.

Gregory, a native of Virginia, earned her commission from the United States Naval Academy in 2008 and has served in a range of operational and staff roles. Most recently, she served as C5I Officer aboard USS Bataan, deploying with the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group Marine Expeditionary Unit in support of operations including Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea.

The U.S. Aegis Ashore Missile Defense System Romania operates under the control of U.S. 6th Fleet and forms part of the European Phased Adaptive Approach. The land-based system is designed to detect, track and intercept ballistic missiles and operates in coordination with forward-deployed U.S. Navy Aegis destroyers based in Europe.

Naval Support Facility Deveselu provides core support to the missile defence mission, including safety, security and quality of life services. It works jointly with Romania’s 99th Military Base to ensure the protection and operational effectiveness of the site.