Romanian Naval Forces Accelerate Modernization Amidst Regional Threats
Romania's Naval Forces are implementing a comprehensive modernization plan, the SAFE initiative, to enhance maritime security amid rising threats in the Black Sea region, particularly from Russia. This includes the acquisition of advanced naval assets such as NSM missiles and mine-hunting vessels, as well as increased patrol activities to ensure navigation safety.
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The Romanian Naval Forces are pursuing the SAFE program, which focuses on enhancing capabilities through the acquisition of advanced missile systems, anti-aircraft defense, and mine-hunting vessels to counteract threats in the Black Sea. Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, they have safely monitored over 14,000 commercial vessels, despite risks from drifting mines and GPS jamming.
The Navy has neutralized 149 mines, with eight discovered by Romanian forces. Collaborative efforts with Bulgaria and Turkey in mine countermeasures have been established, and a memorandum for a joint operational group was signed in January 2024.
Notably, the acquisition of two Sandown-class minehunters and a Hisar-class corvette from Turkey, along with modernization of T22 frigates, indicates a significant enhancement in naval capabilities. Challenges remain due to an aging fleet and personnel retention issues, necessitating continued investment in training and modernization. The ongoing projects aim to strengthen maritime security and enhance response capabilities in the context of evolving regional threats.
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