Romania demands compensation for Patriot missile support to Ukraine

Romania is one of the countries that could provide Ukraine with a Patriot air defense system battery or missiles but does not intend to do so without compensation from Western allies. What kind of missiles does this country have in its arsenal on the Black Sea?

Romania is one of several dozen users of the Patriot system. Although it is a reasonably large group, finding willing donors to supply Ukraine with crucial elements like launchers or accompanying radars is becoming increasingly difficult. There is also a shortage of missiles for the Patriots already on the front line. Recently, Spain responded to Ukraine's requests, but Romanian authorities do not intend to follow suit.

Romania has used this American air defense system since 2020. It does not have many batteries but has purchased several hundred PAC-2 GEM-T missiles.

These missiles were developed in the 1990s. They are equipped with a traditional fragmentation warhead and can engage targets at a distance of up to 100 miles (this also depends on the type of target). Ukrainian soldiers mainly use these missiles in the Patriots received from allies, which have proven effective not only against Russian aircraft but even against ballistic missiles launched by the invaders.

An additional Patriot battery, or even another batch of PAC-2 GEM-T missiles, would greatly help the Ukrainians. However, Romanian authorities believe that any potential transfer should result in compensation from Western allies.

"If Romania finally agrees to some compromise, it must get something else. Otherwise, nothing will be done," said Romanian President Klaus Iohannis in the context of transferring Patriot missiles.

Romania is one of Ukraine's allies and has provided the front with heavy military equipment and ammunition. Analysts suggest that doubts about giving up the Patriot system may stem from concerns about their airspace security, especially given recent reports of Russian drones over Romanian territory.