Romanian jets shoot down marine drone near Black Sea gas platform
Romania deployed F-16 fighters to destroy a marine drone that appeared a few hundred metres from the Neptun Deep offshore gas project.
Romanian air defence launched F-16 jets to neutralise a marine drone spotted only a few hundred metres from the Neptun Deep offshore gas installation in the Black Sea, according to Defence Minister Radu Miruta. He explained the decision was taken to safeguard the several hundred workers on the platform and protect critical infrastructure. Earlier this month, Romanian navy divers destroyed two Gerbera-type drones drifting in the same economic zone.
Ukraine has verified that the latest drone does not belong to its forces, and President Nicusor Dan attributed the incident to Russia, condemning the escalation. The Neptun Deep project, co-owned by OMV Petrom and state gas producer Romgaz, is expected to make Romania the EU's top gas producer when it starts in 2027. NATO members, including Romania, have recently expanded a joint task force to clear mines and defend key Black Sea assets.
Why it matters
The incident highlights growing threats to vital energy infrastructure in the Black Sea amid regional tensions.
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