Romania destroys two drones near Neptun Deep gas field in Black Sea
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Romania's navy destroyed two Gerbera-type drones found near the Neptun Deep gas field in the Black Sea on 11 August, the defence ministry said. The drones were located about 90 nautical miles from Constanta in Romania's exclusive economic zone after a civilian vessel reported them. Ukraine told Bucharest the drones had no link to its armed forces.
Controlled Detonation
Romanian military divers conducted controlled detonations of two Gerbera-type drones found around 8:00 on 11 August in Romania's exclusive economic zone, 90 nautical miles from Constanta. The drones may have carried explosives. A civilian vessel operating in the area reported the drones, and a coast guard ship carrying Romanian Navy mine-clearance specialists was dispatched. A drone wing deemed not dangerous was brought ashore. The defence ministry said it contacted Ukraine, and Kyiv said the drones had no link to Ukrainian forces.
Neptun Deep Reserves
Neptun Deep holds reserves estimated at 100 billion cubic metres. The EU expects its development to cover gas demand in Romania and Southeastern Europe. The field was discovered in 2012, and a final investment decision was made only after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Recent Drone Incursions
Romania has recorded repeated drone intrusions since Russia's full-scale invasion. From 24 to 26 July, Romanian F-16s downed three drones during mass Russian strikes on Ukraine. On 27 July, a drone returned to Ukraine and exploded; on 30 July the situation was repeated. On 5 June, a Ukrainian maritime drone knocked off course by Russian electronic warfare exploded in Constanta port. On 29 May, a Russian drone hit a residential building in Galati, injuring two people.
What's Next
Romanian authorities are continuing to assess maritime safety near the Neptun Deep site after the controlled detonations. It remains unclear whether additional drones or explosive debris will be found in the area.
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Romania destroys two drones near Neptun Deep gas field in Black Sea
