Black Sea maritime security and cooperation

Regional efforts to bolster Black Sea maritime security have progressed through both international cooperation and national infrastructure upgrades.

In mid-August 2026, Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey participated in the Tomis 2026 international maritime exercise in Romanian territorial waters. Organized by Frontex, the exercise focused on strengthening interoperability and testing responses to scenarios such as illegal migration, search and rescue, marine pollution, and hostage rescues at sea.

Following these exercises, Romania has moved to enhance its individual emergency response and surveillance capabilities. The General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (IGSU) commissioned the MAI 0101, a multi-role vessel designed for firefighting, search and rescue, and medical assistance. Additionally, the Romanian Naval Forces have begun installing a surveillance protection system at the Constanta Military Port. Developed in coordination with the US Navy, this system utilizes sensors to detect surface, airborne, and underwater threats, including maritime drones and drifting mines. Similar systems are being deployed to the military ports of Braila, Mangalia, and Tulcea.