Spain Deploys LTR 25 Radar in Romania to Bolster NATO Air Surveillance
The Spanish Armed Forces have deployed an LTR 25 long-range detection radar in Romania as part of NATO’s efforts to strengthen air surveillance on its eastern flank. The radar is stationed in Cataloi, in the eastern part of the country, where a 40-member Spanish “Tigru” detachment is overseeing operations to enhance the deterrence and defense of allied nations.
Equipped with advanced capabilities, the LTR 25 radar provides extended-range airspace monitoring, covering regions from Moldova to the Turkish coast. Designed with a fully modular and scalable architecture, it can be transported via air, sea, rail, or road, ensuring operational flexibility. The system specializes in detecting non-cooperative aircraft, employs anti-clutter features, and integrates a simplified operational control system for user-friendly operation.
Spain’s deployment of the radar aligns with NATO’s broader security measures to reinforce its eastern borders, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In 2022, Madrid committed to supporting NATO’s deterrence efforts by sending fighter jets to Romania. As part of this initiative, Spain deployed eight F-18M fighter jets along with 130 air force personnel to Bucharest.
Since 2014, NATO has ramped up security initiatives in Romania under its Enhanced Air Policing (eAP) mission, a direct response to Russia’s annexation of Crimea. The mission involves monitoring European airspace for aircraft flying without a transponder signal, radio contact, or an approved flight plan. Any detected anomalies are relayed to NATO’s Combined Air Operations Centres, including the Torrejón facility in Spain, which assesses threats and determines if Quick Reaction Alert aircraft need to be dispatched for interception.
By reinforcing air defense capabilities in Romania, Spain continues to play a vital role in NATO’s collective security strategy, ensuring robust surveillance and readiness in the face of evolving threats in the region.
