The Security Axis: After Germany and Greece, Romania Also Strengthens Strategic Ties with Israel

From Athens to Bucharest, via Berlin: European nations choose Israeli technology to defend their borders. With the opening of the new Elbit Systems hub in Chitila, Romania joins the club of Jerusalem's top partners.

As Europe accelerates its pace towards rearmament and modernization of its technological capabilities, a new center of gravity for the continent's security clearly emerges: the strategic axis with Israel. While Germany recently made defense history with the purchase of the Arrow 3 system, and Greece has just signed a monumental agreement for missile artillery, Romania consolidates its position by inaugurating the seventh Elbit Systems plant in Chitila.

Greece and the PULS System: A 750 Million Agreement

The most recent example of this trend is Greece. On April 6, 2026, Athens and Jerusalem formalized a 750 million dollar agreement for the acquisition of the PULS (Precise and Universal Launching System) missile artillery system.

This contract is not just a supply of weapons, but a pillar of the new "strategic alliance" in the Eastern Mediterranean. The PULS system will allow Greece to launch precision rockets and loitering munitions with unprecedented versatility. As highlighted by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, the agreement reflects a "deep trust in the capabilities of the Israeli industry," capable of producing and innovating even in times of global conflict.

Romania: Industrial Sovereignty and "Battle-Proven" Technology

In this context, Romania strongly positions itself. The opening of the Chitila plant for the production of WATCHKEEPER XR drones represents Bucharest's response to the same needs as Athens and Berlin: to obtain field-tested technologies and, above all, to root them in the national territory.

1. From Greece to Romania: Local Cooperation: Just as the Greek agreement involves local industries and the transfer of know-how, Romania has also transformed Elbit into a pillar of its defense economy. With seven plants in the country, Israeli technology is being "Romanianized," ensuring highly specialized jobs and logistical autonomy.
2. A Hub for NATO: The WATCHKEEPER XR, derived from Israeli and British experience, offers NATO standards with reliability matured in real scenarios. Choosing this system means aligning with European partners who, like Denmark, the Netherlands, and now Greece, have chosen Elbit platforms for their versatility and reduced maintenance costs.
3. Multilayer Defense: The Romanian strategic relationship is vast. In addition to the Chitila drones, Romania has recently focused on Rafael's Spyder air defense system, creating a protection network that covers every level, from sky to ground.

National Interest as a Strategic Compass

Why are these choices "right" for national interest? In a sensitive area like NATO's eastern flank and the Mediterranean basin, deterrence capability must be infallible.

European nations have understood that Israel offers not only equipment but a survival doctrine transformed into technology. The fact that Israel can export and support its allies — as stated by Israeli MoD Director General Amir Baram — even while engaged in complex conflicts, is the ultimate proof of this partner's resilience and reliability.