Romania destroys two Russian drones near Neptun Deep gas field

Romanian forces recently destroyed two Russian Gerbera drones near the Neptun Deep gas field in the Black Sea, according to Acting Defense Minister Radu Miruță on August 11. The drones were located approximately 166 kilometers from Constanța near the Neptun Deep gas field, which is anticipated to become a significant source of gas for Europe as the continent transitions away from Russian energy supplies.

The drones were detected by a vessel operating in the area, leading to the deployment of coast guard and military personnel to the site.

Romania's Defense Ministry also reached out to Ukrainian authorities, who confirmed that the drones were not Ukrainian. In response, Romanian forces proceeded with a controlled explosion to neutralize the threat posed by the drones and prevent any harm to shipping or operations near the gas platform. Meanwhile, Lithuanian military intelligence has raised concerns that Russia may be utilizing Ukrainian-made drones to attack critical infrastructure in the Baltic region as a means of diverting attention from Russia's own actions.

Romania has encountered multiple instances of drone intrusions into its airspace since July, including an F-16 fighter jet shooting down a drone over territorial waters near Sulina-Chilia on July 26, another F-16 pilot intercepting and taking down a drone 10 kilometers west of Sfântu Gheorghe on July 25, and a third F-16 fighter jet shooting down an unidentified drone identified as a Russian Shahed on July 24.