Romania Chooses Rafael’s Air Defense in €1.9B Deal to Strengthen NATO Shield

Rafael SPYDER

Romania has officially selected Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to supply a cutting-edge air defense solution under a €1.9 billion contract. This decision marks one of the most significant defense acquisitions in Romanian history and positions the country as a key player in NATO’s evolving air shield strategy.

Romania’s choice to invest in Very Short and Short Range Air Defense (V/SHORAD) systems is part of a broader effort to modernize its military capabilities. The initiative was first approved by the Romanian Parliament in 2020, with acquisition procedures launched in 2023. The goal? To build a layered, interoperable air defense architecture that can counter modern aerial threats ranging from drones and helicopters to cruise missiles and short-range ballistic weapons.

This procurement complements Romania’s recent acquisitions of long-range missile platforms and MANPAD systems, creating a multi-tiered defense network that aligns with NATO standards.

While the Romanian Ministry of Defense has not officially disclosed the system configuration, defense analysts widely agree that Rafael’s SPYDER system is the centerpiece of the deal. SPYDER (Surface-to-air Python and Derby) is a mobile, quick-reaction air defense system designed to neutralize a wide spectrum of aerial threats. It uses Python-5 and Derby missiles—both developed by Rafael—to intercept targets with precision and speed.

The system is already operational in several countries, including the Czech Republic and Morocco, and has proven its effectiveness in real-world combat scenarios. Its modular design includes launch vehicles, command and control units, and resupply vehicles, making it adaptable to various battlefield conditions.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this deal is its financing and industrial collaboration model. Romania plans to leverage EU-level funding instruments such as the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP) and the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through Common Procurement Act (EDIRPA). These mechanisms not only help offset costs but also encourage local production and technology transfer.

Rafael is expected to subcontract parts of the manufacturing process to European firms, particularly Romanian companies. This approach mirrors Rafael’s successful collaboration on the Spike anti-tank missile series, which is produced in Europe through the Eurospike joint venture.

Rafael’s win is not just a financial triumph—it’s a strategic and symbolic one. The Israeli firm outpaced major European competitors, including Germany’s MBDA and France’s Thales, in a competitive evaluation process. The Korean company League NEX1 was also in the running but was disqualified due to documentation issues.

This victory underscores Rafael’s growing influence in the European defense market and highlights the trust placed in Israeli defense technology amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Although the final contract has yet to be signed, Romanian officials have confirmed that the framework agreement is imminent. Once finalized, this deal will become Israel’s second-largest defense export ever, following the $3.5 billion Arrow 3 sale to Germany in 2023.

For Romania, the acquisition signals a bold step toward securing its airspace and reinforcing NATO’s eastern flank. For Rafael, it’s a testament to the company’s innovation, reliability, and strategic foresight.