U.S. Clears $280M Patriot Missile System Sale to Romania

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $280 million Foreign Military Sale to Romania for a Patriot Air Defense System, including radar, launchers, and related support equipment.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) formally notified Congress of the proposed deal on April 28.

Romania has requested the acquisition of one AN/MPQ-65 Configuration 3+ Increment 3 radar set, one AN/MSQ-132 Engagement Control Station, two M903 launching stations, and one Electrical Power Plant III. The package includes non-lethal items such as modification kits, spare parts, encryption devices, communication equipment, advanced GPS systems, technical documentation, and logistics support.

The system is expected to restore Romanian air defense capacity following the donation of a Patriot unit to Ukraine in September 2024, a gesture publicly acknowledged by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The donated unit had played a role in intercepting Russian missiles and Shahed drones, and its replacement is seen as critical to maintaining Romania’s own readiness. Only one of Romania’s initial four delivered Patriot systems was fully operational by late 2023.

The newly requested radar system features phased-array technology capable of detecting targets over 100 miles away, including low-flying cruise missiles and stealth threats. The M903 launchers are compatible with the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE), a hit-to-kill interceptor with a 93-mile range and enhanced maneuverability. Secure communications will be ensured through integrated KG-250X and KIV-77 encryptors, enabling interoperability with NATO forces.

Principal contractors for the proposed sale include RTX Corporation and Lockheed Martin.

Romania’s modernization efforts began in 2017 with a $3.9 billion Patriot contract, followed by additional purchases in 2020 and a $946 million order in January 2025.