Romania demands compensation for Patriot missiles to Ukraine

Romania is one of the several dozen users of the Patriot system. Although it is a reasonably large group, finding willing donors to provide Ukraine with crucial elements like launchers or accompanying radars is becoming increasingly difficult. However, 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 defence 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 allow for the engagement of targets at a distance of up to 160 kilometres (this also depends on the target type). In the Patriots received from allies, Ukrainian soldiers mainly use these missiles, 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. According to some analysts, doubts about giving up the Patriot system may stem from concerns about their airspace security. Over the past few months, there have been reports of Russian drones over Romanian territory.