Romania approves decade-long military modernization plan

Romania's Supreme Council of National Defense (CSAT) has approved the Romanian Army Armament Plan (PIAR) for the 2027-2036 period. This decade-long strategy aims to undergo one of the country's most significant military transformations in recent decades, driven by NATO obligations and the security environment following the war in Ukraine.

The modernization plan includes the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets, Patriot missile systems, HIMARS, tanks, armored vehicles such as Piranha 5, infantry fighting vehicles, 155 mm howitzers, attack drones, anti-drone systems, anti-ship missiles, and patrol vessels. Additionally, the plan incorporates the development of a proprietary military communications satellite.

The Ministry of National Defense (MApN) noted that the plan aligns with NATO commitments to allocate up to 5% of GDP to defense by 2035. This includes 3.5% for direct defense spending—such as acquisitions, personnel, and operations—and 1.5% for related areas like dual-use infrastructure, cybersecurity, and resilience. The plan is updated annually to reflect evolving security needs and lessons learned from recent conflicts.