A Romanian Air Force F-16 fighter jet intercepted and shot down a drone that crossed into national airspace over territorial waters, according to a statement released by the Romanian Ministry of Defense. The incident occurred on Sunday, five minutes after the unmanned aerial vehicle entered Romanian airspace, Defense Minister Radu Miruca told reporters.
Black Sea Interception Details Near Sulina
The F-16 fighter jet engaged the target 12 kilometers northeast of Sulina, bringing down the aerial vehicle safely over territorial waters. According to the Ministry of Defense, the operation marked the third time in three days that a drone violated Romanian airspace. Military authorities have launched active investigations into both the Saturday and Sunday incursions to determine the origin and flight path of the downed aircraft.
Did you know?
Investigation Links Debris to Shahed Models
Investigative teams examining a separate incident confirmed that a drone downed on Friday was a Shahed-model unmanned aerial vehicle used by Russia in its war of aggression against Ukraine, according to Romanian President Nicușor Dan.
NATO and European Union Airspace Security Stakes
President Dan condemned the incidents in a statement published on the social media platform X, stating, “It is not acceptable and tolerable that Russia continues to violate Romania’s airspace, which is also NATO and the European Union’s airspace.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the drone shot down?
The Romanian Air Force F-16 jet shot down the drone 12 kilometers northeast of Sulina, over territorial waters in the Black Sea, according to the Ministry of Defense.
What model of drone violated Romanian airspace?
According to President Nicușor Dan, investigation data from a previous incident on Friday confirmed the use of a Shahed-model drone linked to Russia’s war against Ukraine.
How many incidents occurred recently?
The Ministry of Defense reported that Sunday’s interception marked the third such drone incident within a span of three days.
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