Romania destroys marine drone near Neptun Deep gas project, minister says
- Romania scrambled F-16s to destroy a marine drone a few hundred metres from the Neptun Deep gas platform to protect workers and critical infrastructure.
- The incident highlights rising drone- and mine-related threats in the Black Sea amid Russia’s war in Ukraine; Neptun Deep is slated to make Romania the EU’s biggest gas producer in 2027.
- Romania, backed by NATO partners, has stepped up clearing operations and expanded a joint task force after dozens of drifting mines and drones; President Dan blamed Russia while Ukraine denied involvement.