NATO’s Deployable Command and Control Centre (DACCC) has successfully moved its Deployable Air Defence Radar (DADR) LANZA LTR-25 and support personnel from Poggio Renatico, Italy, to Cataloi, Romania.
According to a press release from the alliance, this deployment is part of NATO’s ongoing efforts to bolster its surveillance and defence capabilities on the southeastern flank.
The deployment, which reached Initial Operational Capability on 14 August 2024, is designed to enhance NATO’s air surveillance coverage along Romania’s borders, particularly in detecting aircraft with reduced Radar Cross Section (RCS) that may approach NATO airspace.
This advanced radar system is one of two mobile units assigned to the DACCC and is complemented by two passive sensors (Deployable Passive ESM Tracker – DPET), providing a unique capability to the Centre, making it the only NATO entity equipped to conduct both active and passive radar detection.
Major General Denny Traas, DACCC Commander, highlighted the importance of this deployment, stating, “This deployment has to be seen as defensive and necessary in order to further increase protection of our host nation and Ally Romania.” He added that the mission demonstrates the continuous evolution and improvement of the Alliance’s defensive systems, reflecting NATO’s commitment to maintaining a robust and capable military posture.
The deployment of the DADR radar is part of NATO’s broader Enhanced Vigilance activities in the region, which also includes the routine rotational deployment of fighter jets to Romania. Currently, Spanish F-18s are stationed at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base as part of NATO’s enhanced Air Policing mission, working alongside Romanian F-16s to safeguard the alliance’s airspace.
Brigadier General Michael Krah, Deputy Chief of Staff Operations at Allied Air Command, spoke of NATO’s commitment to protecting the integrity of its members’ airspace, stating, “The current deployment of the DACCC’s radar to Romania demonstrates NATO’s continuous commitment to safeguarding the integrity of Alliance Members’ airspace.”
He noted that both the radar deployment and the air policing efforts underscore the solidarity and cohesion among NATO Allies in their deterrence and defence strategies.
