The Romanian Naval Forces are set to enhance their operational capabilities through the procurement of MQ-35A V-BAT vertical take-off and landing drones from the United States. This strategic acquisition will include two V-BAT systems, comprising four drones each, under a government-to-government arrangement valued at approximately $30 million, as reported by Romanian outlet HotNews, citing various sources.
This drone purchase is part of a comprehensive modernization initiative by the Romanian Navy that encompasses various equipment upgrades. Besides the V-BAT drones, the procurement will also include maritime patrol vessels, man-portable anti-aircraft systems, and multifunctional wheeled platforms. The Romanian Ministry of Defense has indicated that there will be a significant focus on enhancing the capabilities and modernization programs of the Naval Forces, particularly regarding both maritime and riverine operations, in the fiscal year of 2025.
In a related development, the US had already donated one V-BAT system to the Romanian Navy, valued at about $18 million, with expectations for delivery by the end of this year. This earlier acquisition underscores the growing military cooperation between Romania and the United States.
The V-BAT system, developed by Shield AI, is designed for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting missions. It has garnered attention from the U.S. military, having been selected for the Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System competition and utilized by the U.S. Coast Guard. The system has also seen deployment in Ukraine, where it has played a pivotal role in assisting military operations by locating and targeting Russian surface-to-air missile systems, including the SA-11 Buk.
Brandon Tseng, president and co-founder of Shield AI, highlighted the V-BAT’s efficacy in Ukraine, noting its capability to launch from a distance of about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the frontline and conduct missions over 100 kilometers (62 miles) beyond enemy lines. Despite the challenges posed by Russian electronic warfare, which has hampered the effectiveness of several Western military systems, the V-BAT has demonstrated notable resilience. Its robust performance can be attributed to its navigation features that operate independently of GPS and its jamming-resistant communication abilities.
Weighing 125 pounds (57 kilograms), the V-BAT is notable for its operational versatility, as it does not require a runway for take-off and landing. It boasts an impressive endurance of 10 hours and an operational range that extends up to 300 miles (483 kilometers). The system is equipped with a radio transmission capability up to 130 kilometers (81 miles) and can operate at altitudes of 6,100 meters (20,013 feet). Moreover, there are ongoing efforts aimed at integrating laser-guided munitions into the V-BAT system, enhancing its offensive capabilities.
This acquisition reflects Romania’s commitment to strengthening its naval capabilities and reinforcing its defense posture amidst evolving regional security dynamics in Eastern Europe.
