Romania Shoots Down Unauthorized Drones Near Critical Gas Project

Romania's defense minister confirmed that two unauthorized drones were shot down near the Neptun Deep gas project in the Black Sea. The drones, identified as Gerbera-type decoys, were intercepted by F-16 fighter jets and destroyed.

The Neptun Deep project is a significant energy development for Europe, with estimated reserves of 100 billion cubic meters of recoverable natural gas. The joint venture between OMV Petrom and Romgaz carries a price tag of around €4 billion, making it one of the most expensive infrastructure projects in the region.

The incident highlights the growing concern about drone threats in the Black Sea, particularly for energy infrastructure. Romania's defense minister, Radu Miruță, has been vocal about the need for enhanced NATO counter-drone systems on the alliance's eastern flank.