Bucharest has moved closer to deploying a new AI-powered anti-drone capability after testing the Merops counter-UAS system at Romania’s Capu Midia range near the Black Sea. Defence Minister Radu Miruta indicated the platform could be operational within days. The Merops architecture combines control stations, launch systems, and Surveyor interceptor drones capable of locating and engaging hostile aerial targets through radar guidance and autonomous decision-making tools. The two-week trial campaign included additional evaluations of sensors, electronic warfare assets, and Romania’s current air defense network. While one interception attempt failed because of evasive target movement, officials said the system showed strong overall detection accuracy, thermal imaging quality, and targeting reliability. Romania intends to use the system to improve coverage along the Danube region, where drone threats linked to the Ukraine conflict have increased. With F-16s, Patriots, and HIMARS already in service, the Merops addition would expand Romania’s layered defenses. The project also reflects wider NATO efforts to counter growing drone activity near alliance borders.
