Romania urges faster EU defense output at NATO ministerial
Romanian Defense Minister and Vice Prime Minister Radu-Dinel Miruta called for the urgent acceleration of European defense industrial production during the NATO Defense Ministers' meeting on February 12.
"Europe must be capable of protecting Europe," Miruta stated upon arrival, emphasizing that the continent's security depends on industrial speed rather than just financial allocation. He argued that while funding is necessary, the primary constraint remains the pace of manufacturing.
To bolster these efforts, Romania will utilize the European SAFE mechanism to revitalize its national defense industry. This initiative aims to integrate local companies into broader European production chains through the introduction of advanced technologies.
The Minister underscored that strengthening European industrial capacity must happen in close cooperation with NATO and the United States. He maintained that a robust European pillar is essential for a balanced and effective Alliance.
Regarding the newly announced "Arctic Sentry" initiative, Miruta confirmed Romania would analyze potential contributions while reiterating that the Eastern Flank remains the country’s strategic priority.
"The critical flashpoint for us is the Eastern Flank, from the Baltic to the Black Sea," Miruta declared. He advocated for an equitable distribution of resources to ensure the entire eastern border is protected against Russian aggression.
The ministerial meeting continues to focus on adapting NATO’s strategic posture and increasing collective defense investments in response to evolving regional security challenges.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
