NATO to Deploy AWACS Aircraft in Romania to Monitor Russia

NATO will deploy Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft in Romania on January 17 to strengthen the North Atlantic Alliance's presence in the region and monitor Russian military activity, according to a statement from the alliance.

“NATO will deploy AWACS aircraft in Bucharest. The arrival of the planes is scheduled for January 17, 2023, and they will support the enhanced presence of the alliance in the region and ensure continuous monitoring of Russian military activities,” the message states.

“As Russia's illegal war in Ukraine continues to threaten peace and security in Europe, NATO's determination to defend every inch of the alliance's territory should not be in doubt,” said NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu.

She noted that “AWACS systems can detect aircraft hundreds of kilometers away, making them a core element of NATO's deterrence and defense.” The mission is planned to last for several weeks.

NATO did not specify how many AWACS aircraft will be sent to Romania. There are 14 such aircraft in Germany.