Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, an Israeli company, and the Romanian Ministry of National Defence (MApN) have recently concluded a major framework agreement for the procurement of short-range (SHORAD) and very short-range (VSHORAD) air defense systems. The General Directorate for Armaments, through CN Romtehnica SA, facilitated this development, which the MApN officially announced. The acquisition was an important step in Romania’s defense modernization efforts. The exact system configuration has not been definitively affirmed by officials, regardless of the fact that Romanian media speculate that the purchase is intended for the Spyder AiO (All-in-One) variant.
Background and Strategic Context
The procurement is a component of Romania’s “Integrated SHORAD-VSHORAD Weapons System Program” (Sistem integrat de arme SHORAD-VSHORAD). Rafael obtained this contract by ousting Diehl Defence (IRIS-T) of Germany and MBDA (VL MICA) of France in the tender process. The agreement is valued at 10.33 billion Romanian lei (approximately 2.038 billion euros), which is the second-largest arms deal in the annals of the Israeli defense industry. The Arrow-3 sale to Germany is the largest.
The broader Surge in Israeli Defense Exports
The Israeli Ministry of Defense reported that Israeli armament exports in 2024 exceeded $14.8 billion, which is twice the figure from 2019. The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has significantly contributed to the surge in security concerns, which has resulted in Europe becoming the primary market for Israel’s exports, accounting for 54% of the total.
Details of the Framework Agreement
The agreement is expected to span seven years and will involve the procurement of six integrated systems through three distinct contracts. The delivery schedule predicts that the initial two systems will be delivered within three years of the initial contract’s signing, which could occur as early as this autumn.
Composition and Configuration of the Systems
Each of the six integrated systems will comprise
A single SHORAD system
A single VSHORAD system
One integrated SHORAD/VSHORAD system
In operational terms, this structure implies that Romania will establish six batteries, each with three fire units—one of SHORAD, VSHORAD, and a combined system—for a total of 18 systems. It is anticipated that each fire unit will be equipped with its own radar and optronic sensors, effectors (missiles or interceptors), and a fire control system. These components may be distributed across multiple vehicles to enhance survival and flexible operations.
Sensor and Missile Components
According to reports, the Israeli offer includes the mobile Spyder system, which operates in conjunction with Poland’s Piorun portable anti-aircraft missiles, which have a range of up to 6,500 meters. Romania will probably use a combination of Rafael’s guided missiles, including the Python 5 (range: 15 km), I-Derby SR (range: 20 km), and I-Derby ER (range: 40 km). The precise integration method and vehicle platforms are still unresolved; however, speculation suggests that Turkish Cobra II 4×4 vehicles and Iveco M250 trucks may be included.
Customization and Clarification of Configurations
Romania’s objective is to adapt the Spyder system to its unique operational requirements, which necessitates an extended delivery timeline of three years. It is important to note that Romania is not purchasing the Spyder AiO version, which was introduced by Rafael in 2022 as a fully autonomous, single-vehicle solution. Instead, Romania is procuring a customized version, as confirmed by Romanian sources such as the Adevărul portal. Separate vehicles will be utilized for the launcher, command post, and radar instrument in this configuration. The radar is anticipated to be provided by the Italian company Leonardo, and three missile types—two from Rafael and one from Poland—will be implemented.
Objectives and Consequences for Romanian Defense
The primary objective of this acquisition is to enhance Romania’s air defense capabilities, with a particular emphasis on the mitigation of threats posed by drones and cruise missiles. The replacement of the outdated American MIM-23 Hawk platforms with these new systems will significantly enhance Romania’s air defense capability.
Additional Missile Acquisition: MANPADs
The Romanian MApN announced its intention to acquire man-portable Mistral 3 missiles at the end of June, with a prospective contract value exceeding €700 million. The important purchase of these MANPADs (Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems) shows that they can get some non-refundable funding through the EDIRPA program, highlighting the growing focus on working together in European defense.
In conclusion,
Romania’s air defense program, which focuses on buying SHORAD-VSHORAD systems from Rafael and more Mistral 3 MANPADs, is a significant step in improving its national and regional security in a complicated European security situation. The Romanian Armed Forces have made a notable move forward as a result of the program’s advanced missile options, modern sensor suites, and customized configuration.