NATO deploys reconnaissance aircraft in Romania

NATO is moving the airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft closer to the combat zone in Ukraine.

This was stated in the press service of the North Atlantic Alliance.

The Alliance is preparing the deployment of airborne early warning and control aircraft in Bucharest.

The aircraft are due to arrive on January 17, 2023, and will maintain an increased alliance presence in the region and monitor Russia’s actions.

“As Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine continues to threaten peace and security in Europe, there should be no doubt about NATO’s determination to defend every inch of Allied territory,” a NATO official said.

These aircraft can detect air targets hundreds of kilometres away, making them a key deterrent and defence for NATO.

“I thank Romania for deploying an aircraft that makes an important contribution to our defense,” the NATO official added.

In response to Russia’s war in Ukraine, NATO increased its air presence in Eastern Europe with additional fighters and reconnaissance aircraft.

Since February 2022, NATO radar aircraft have been conducting regular patrols over Eastern Europe and the Baltic Sea region to track Russian combat aircraft near the alliance’s borders.

In the coming days, NATO AEW&C will begin reconnaissance flights exclusively over the territory of the alliance.

These aircraft belong to a fleet of 14 NATO reconnaissance aircraft, which are usually based in Gailenkirchen, Germany.

About 180 servicemens will be stationed at the Romanian Air Force base in Otopeni, near Bucharest.