Romania to deploy AI air defence system after Black Sea tests
AI Analysis
Romania is set to deploy the AI-powered Merops air defense system developed by Project Eagle, following tests at the Black Sea. The deployment aims to counter increasing drone incursions linked to the Ukraine conflict.
Key Takeaways
- Romania to deploy Merops, an AI-powered air defense system.
- Merops was tested at Capu Midia Air Defence Training Range.
- Produced by Project Eagle, founded by Eric Schmidt.
- Romania and Ukraine plan joint drone production under EU funding.
- NATO allies intensify air defense efforts due to increased drone threats.
Why It Matters
The deployment of the Merops system enhances Romania's air defense capabilities amid rising drone threats from the Ukraine conflict, particularly along NATO's eastern flank. This move also signifies increased collaboration between Romania and Ukraine in drone technology, supported by EU funding, potentially strengthening regional security and defense integration.
Romania to deploy AI air defence system after Black Sea tests | Caliber.Az
Published: 2026-04-25T17:35:00+04:00
Summary
Romania is set to deploy a US-developed, artificial intelligence-powered air defence system, Merops, within days following final tests at a Black Sea military range. The system, produced by Project Eagle, was tested at the Capu Midia Air Defence Training Range and is produced by former Google chief Eric Schmidt. Romania’s Defence Minister, Radu Miruta, stated that the system would be put into operation within days. This comes amid increasing concerns over drone incursions linked to the Ukraine war. Romania and Ukraine are planning joint drone production under the European Union's SAFE rearmament funding mechanism.
Story
Romania to deploy AI air defence system after Black Sea tests | Caliber.Az WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR ? --- Any use of materials is allowed only if there is a hyperlink to Caliber.az Caliber.az © 2026. . CATEGORIES POPULAR TAGS --- Any use of materials is allowed only if there is a hyperlink to Caliber.az Caliber.az © 2026. . A+ A- # Romania to deploy AI air defence system after Black Sea tests 25 April 2026 17:35 Romania is set to deploy a US-developed, artificial intelligence-powered air defence system within days following final tests conducted at a Black Sea military range, as concerns grow over drone incursions linked to the war in neighbouring Ukraine, Reuters reports. The system, known as Merops, was tested at the Capu Midia Air Defence Training Range and is produced by Project Eagle, a company founded by former Google chief Eric Schmidt. Romania’s Defence Minister Radu Miruta said the system would be put into operation “in a matter of days.” Romania, a member of NATO and the European Union, shares a 650-kilometre (400-mile) border with Ukraine and has repeatedly reported Russian drone incursions into its airspace during attacks on Ukrainian port infrastructure across the Danube River. With drone threats increasing along NATO’s eastern flank, allied countries are intensifying efforts to strengthen air defence systems. “The threat is real,” said Major General Arnoud Stallmann, assistant chief of staff at NATO’s Allied Command Transformation, speaking at the test site located about 80 kilometres from the Ukrainian frontline. “And with the incursions in NATO-allied countries of drones, we needed a solution for that.” Romania and NATO conducted a two-week testing program involving interceptor drones, radar systems, sensors and electronic jamming equipment developed by private companies, while also evaluating the performance of existing systems. According to NATO sources, the Merops system—already in use in Ukraine and Poland—includes a ground control station, launchers and Surveyor interceptor drones capable of operating autonomously using artificial intelligence and radar. Miruta described the tests as partially successful, noting that one interceptor missed its target after manoeuvring too sharply