Romania has sealed a 625-million-euro ($724 million) deal with France to obtain Mistral very short-range air defense systems.
Under the agreement, Romania will receive 231 portable launchers, 934 Mistral missiles, a simulator, full logistic support, training services, ammunition, and associated documentation. The systems will enhance Romania’s ground, air, naval, and special operations forces.
The purchase, authorized by Romania’s Parliament in June 2022, is part of the EU-backed Security Action for Europe initiative aimed at strengthening Europe’s defense industrial base through coordinated procurement.
MBDA’s Mistral is a fire-and-forget missile system compatible with various platforms and designed to defend against aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and hostile naval targets.
The newest variant, Mistral 3, features an interception range of up to 8 kilometers and altitude capabilities reaching 6 kilometers. Capable of supersonic engagement and high maneuverability, it has recently demonstrated effective performance against stealthy drones and surface ships during trials.
