The U.S. Department of State has approved Romania’s request to purchase four AN/MPQ-64 F1 Sentinel radar systems and related support equipment and services valued at a potential $110 million.
According to a statement from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Tucson, Arizona-based defense contractor RTX is the principal contractor of the foreign military sale to Bucharest. It said the deal also calls for RTX to supply Romania with nonmajor defense equipment such as IPS 250X high-assurance internet protocol encryptors and KIV-77 friend-or-foe crypto identification.
Other non-MDE items under the FMS include advanced global positioning receivers, classified software and command control systems, spare parts and repair, new equipment training, and U.S. government and contractor support services.
DSCA noted that the proposed sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security goals while improving Romania’s defense capabilities and participation in NATO activities.
U.S. Ambassador to Romania Kathleen Kavalec said the transaction reaffirms the enduring security partnership between the two nations.
“These radar systems will greatly increase the early warning for potential threats to Romanian cities and critical infrastructure and better protect the territory and citizens of Romania,” she added. “The acquisition of the Sentinel improves the security of Romania, our NATO ally and an important force for political and economic stability in Europe.”
In May, the State Department approved Bucharest’s air-to-air missile purchase request for Romanian F-16 jetfighters worth $340.8 million, with RTX also as the supplier.