Romanian F-16s shoot down two drones over Black Sea, authorities say

Romanian F-16 fighter jets intercepted and shot down two drones over the Black Sea on Saturday, according to authorities. Defence Minister Radu Miruta reported that the first drone entered Romanian airspace at approximately 17:59 and was brought down within two minutes, 25 km south-east of the town of Sulina. The second drone entered the same area shortly after, and was engaged and neutralized at 18:05, five minutes after crossing the national boundary, 20 km east of Sulina.

Two F-16s were involved in the operation, which took place during air policing missions launched from the 86th air base at Borcea, near Fetești. The aircraft were dispatched following radar surveillance systems detecting multiple aerial targets, as announced by the Ministry. Romania's foreign minister, Oana Toiu, emphasized the critical importance of the Black Sea for global food and energy security, stating that NATO would address the matter at an upcoming meeting.

Situated on NATO's eastern flank, Romania remains particularly susceptible to security threats arising from Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The country has faced an increase in drone-related incursions and incidents, believed to be connected to the conflict, in recent months.