Romania has officially confirmed a €625.6 million acquisition of Mistral MANPADS from France, reinforcing its low-altitude air defense amid increasing Russian drone and missile activity. Signed on 25 November 2025, the contract includes launchers, missiles, training services, simulators, and logistics support—making it a key element of Romania’s air defense enhancement.
Contract Scope
The agreement covers 231 launchers and 934 missiles, along with training, technical documentation, simulators, and initial logistical packages. Known domestically as the “MANPAD Mistral” program, the systems will be distributed across Romania’s Land Forces, Air Force, Naval Forces, and special operations units as part of a broader multi-layer modernization effort.
Mistral 3 Capabilities
The Mistral 3 features an imaging infrared seeker, a high-explosive tungsten-filled warhead, and a powerful two-stage motor. With an engagement range of up to 8 km and altitude coverage up to 6 km, it achieves speeds of 930 m/s and about 30 g maneuverability. The fire-and-forget seeker allows autonomous target tracking. The system can be deployed from shoulder launchers, tripods, vehicles, naval mounts, and helicopter pods.
Strengthening Defense Layers
Integrated with Romania’s existing systems—Patriot, Hawk XXI, Gepard, Chiron MANPADS and incoming counter-drone solutions—the Mistral provides a vital layer within the country’s multi-tier shield. The combination of diverse seeker technologies enhances effectiveness against drones, cruise missiles, and low-signature targets.
European Procurement Framework
The acquisition takes place under the EU’s “Joint Acquisition of Mistral System” framework, supported through EDIRPA and SAFE mechanisms. This structure consolidates demand across nine EU states, reducing costs and securing industrial efficiency for MBDA. Romania’s participation strengthens Europe’s shared air defense posture along the Black Sea and Danube corridors.
Regional and Political Impact
By joining a European joint procurement effort, Romania translates its increased defense spending into concrete capabilities. Mistral MANPADS help close low-altitude coverage gaps around critical infrastructure and forward-deployed units. Politically, the move signals Romania’s alignment with EU defense industrial sovereignty while remaining fully interoperable with NATO standards.
