The Digester

Romania to host US refuelling planes and surveillance gear, says president

Mar 11th 2026

Romania will host US refuelling planes, surveillance and satellite communications equipment described as defensive and without munitions, after approval by the country’s defence council and pending parliamentary ratification.

  • President Nicusor Dan said the equipment is defensive and carries no ammunition.
  • Romania's top defence council approved the US request and parliament is expected to ratify it later in the day.
  • Deployed gear will include refuelling aircraft, monitoring devices and satellite communications tied to the Deveselu Aegis Ashore shield.
  • About 1,000 US troops remain in Romania and the permanent allied presence is around 3,500 NATO troops.
  • Some EU countries sent warships to Cyprus after Iranian-made drones struck a British base, while most EU officials condemned the strikes and urged a diplomatic solution.
  • Romania borders Ukraine for about 650 kilometers and regional security is affected by Russian drone activity and mines in the Black Sea.