Dutch MQ-9 Reapers extended by half a year in Romania

Dutch MQ-9 Reapers have been assisting since early 2024 in so-called Air Shielding operations. The unarmed aircraft are deployed from Romania along the eastern border of the NATO treaty area. The data and information collected from the air help build a good situational picture. The mission was scheduled to end in late March but has been extended by half a year after consultation with Romania and NATO.

Minister Brekelmans: “Russias terror in Ukraine has lasted for almost 4 years. However, the Russian threat extends further, also to the rest of Europe. This means we must remain extremely vigilant. Defense of the eastern flank is of great importance for the security of Europe and thus also for the Netherlands. Our advanced MQ-9 Reapers play a crucial role in this. We thereby strengthen NATOs intelligence position. This allows us to anticipate better.”

The MQ-9 Reapers are operated from the Netherlands by Air Force personnel. The processing of intelligence also takes place from the Netherlands. Additionally, there are military personnel in Romania to maintain and guard the aircraft.

Brekelmans is in Brussels on Wednesday and Thursday (February 11 and 12) to speak with his counterparts from the EU and NATO. High on the agenda are support for Ukraine and strengthening European defense.