Romania to begin mass production of military and civilian drones by year-end

Romania is set to commence mass production of domestically developed dual-purpose drones — designed for both military and civilian applications — by the end of this year, following the rollout of a prototype in the summer. 

In parallel, efforts are underway to modernize production lines for explosive compounds RDX and TNT, Minister of Economy, Digital Transformation, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism, Bogdan Ivan announced on March 26 at the Parliament, Caliber.Az reports via Romanian media.

The minister stated that the drone concept is currently in its final phase of testing, with preparations being made for large-scale manufacturing.

“We are now analyzing where to direct investments and how we can produce — from 155-caliber NATO-grade ammunition to everything related to TNT and RDX explosive substances,” Ivan explained. “We are ready to expand production capacities and are working closely with the Defense Ministry to ensure as much as possible of Romania's internal needs are met.”

Ivan also revealed that in approximately two and a half years, Romania will start producing its own explosive powders as part of a joint venture with a major foreign company. “We also have the Foreign Military Sales mechanism in place for 155-mm ammunition,” he noted. These explosives will be manufactured at a facility in the town of Victoria, near Făgăraș.

As part of Romania’s expanding defense industry, RON 1 billion (approx. $220 million) will be invested this year in national military equipment production projects, particularly in domestic defense companies, Ivan said. He emphasized that this initiative is supported by Romania’s offset program, which ensures that part of the funds allocated for military procurement will return to the national economy through investments in local defense firms.

The country’s defense capabilities have also received a boost through international agreements. Last October, the US State Department approved the sale of Sentinel radar systems to Romania. These radars are expected to enhance Romania’s air defense network, particularly in detecting slow-moving drones with a low radar signature, according to Romania’s Defense Minister Angel Tîlvăr.

“These radar systems will significantly improve our early detection capabilities, strengthening Romania’s air defense,” Tîlvăr stated.

The initial procurement plan includes the purchase of two Sentinel radar systems at a cost of approximately $90 million. The majority of the funding will come from the US State Department’s Foreign Military Financing program, supporting Romania’s defense modernization efforts.

By Tamilla Hasanova