Romania’s has launched its first ever live-fire test of the American-made Patriot missile system aided by U.S. Army trainers, according to a statement this week.
Supported by the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command, the Romanian 74th Patriot Regiment carried out a series of launches on November 14-15 at the Capu Midia firing range, along the Black Sea coast, according to the Stars and Stripes which quoted the Monday statement.
“Romania made history, bolstering regional security and NATO’s southeastern flank,” the statement said.
The four demonstrations during the two-day test were a key moment as Romania efforts to advance its air defense capabilities.
Since the 74th received its first of seven Patriot systems in 2020, part of a $3.9 billion acquisition, a team of Army instructors was assembled to provide assistance.
Currently, the U.S. is helping Romania train the second of seven firing units.
Operating the Patriot system — which includes launching stations, advanced radars and other complex equipment — requires extensive training. Typically, it takes several years for a unit to become fully operational and qualified, the Army said.
There are exceptions, though. Earlier this year, a contingent of Ukrainian air defense operations wrapped up Army Patriot training in just a couple of months and was back on the battlefield defending the country from Russian forces.
“Romania’s position along the Black Sea, its 380-mile border with Ukraine, and security partnership with the United States make it a critical ally to the U.S. and Europe,” the Army statement said.
Incorporation of the Patriot missiles into the fighting formation is one of numerous advances Romania has made in recent years to modernize its force.
The former Communist country is one of a handful of NATO members to meet the benchmark of spending 2% of gross domestic product on defense. In November, Romania also received approval to buy 54 Abrams tanks worth $2.5 billion.
