Romania's Ministry of National Defense finalized an agreement with Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems for the acquisition of SPYDER short- and very-short-range air-defense systems. The contract has a value exceeding €2 billion.

Romania's Parliament approved the acquisition in accordance with national legislation, and Rafael was selected through a restricted tender. The agreement is the largest contract in Rafael's history and the second-largest defense deal in Israeli defense-industry history.

The initial order includes one integrated SHORAD-VSHORAD system, three VSHORAD systems, one SHORAD system, and dedicated training and simulation infrastructure. This procurement package encompasses launchers, interceptors, radar systems, training arrays, and logistical support. Initial operational capability is planned within 36 months, with deliveries of the first two VSHORAD systems scheduled within three years. Operator training is set to commence before acceptance activities.

A broader framework agreement was concluded in July 2025. This agreement provides for six integrated SHORAD-VSHORAD systems, six SHORAD systems, six VSHORAD systems, along with associated ammunition, training, and logistical support.

The SPYDER system is a mobile, quick-reaction air-defense solution capable of intercepting various aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, UAVs, helicopters, and precision-guided munitions. This system also possesses counter-tactical ballistic missile capabilities. The SPYDER Family comprises multiple variants such as the SPYDER SR, SPYDER MR, SPYDER LR, SPYDER ER, and the SPYDER All-in-One. The system is built around the Python-5 and Derby missiles, which are adapted from air-to-air use for ground launch.

The SPYDER system incorporates an electro-optical observation payload and wireless data link communication. It can engage multiple threats simultaneously up to 160 kilometers away in all weather conditions. The EL/M 2106 radar, manufactured by Elta, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), is part of the system and can track up to 500 targets simultaneously in all weather conditions while on the move.

The SPYDER system has been operational for more than fifteen years and is utilized by militaries in the Czech Republic, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, India, the Philippines, Vietnam, Kenya, and Singapore. Rafael has a history of supplying Romania with advanced systems, including tactical missiles (SPIKE), electro-optics, and communications, over the past three decades. Prof. Yuval Steinitz, Chairman of the Board for Rafael, stated in a podcast interview, "The agreement with Romania is a strategic one that demonstrates Rafael's technological leadership and enduring excellence in the field of air defense. We thank the Government of Romania for choosing the SPYDER system and welcome Romania's entry into the community of nations that have chosen Rafael's system to protect their citizens." He added, "As a leader in defense innovation, we will continue to contribute to the security of our partners through the development of the most advanced technologies and productive industrial collaborations."