Romania Purchases 3 Watchkeeper X Tactical UAS Worth $180 Million From Elbit Systems
During the Paris Air Show, Romania’s Defense Ministry signed a $180 million contract with Israel’s Elbit Systems for the supply of Watchkeeper X drones. Elbit Systems will supply Romania with three modernized Watchkeeper X tactical UAVs with advanced capabilities, including the Spectro XR multi-spectral electro-optical payload, new communications capabilities, and more, under the terms of the contract, which was signed as part of a framework agreement concluded in December.
The purchase will be carried out over a two-year period, during which Romania will have the option of purchasing four more drones of the same type. If Romania purchases four additional Watchkeeper Xs, the total cost of the two contracts will be $410 million. Amir Bettesh, Elbit’s vice president of UAS marketing and business development, told Defense News that, as part of the framework agreement, a portion of the Watchkeepers’ production will take place in Romania and will involve local subcontractors.
Elbit Systems General Manager Yoram Shmuely said, “we welcome this partnership with Romania and their trust in our solutions. We also appreciate the continued support and collaboration with the Israeli and UK governments and our business partners on the Watchkeeper program. The ongoing research and development we are investing in the Watchkeeper platform will enhance the capabilities of both the Romanian and British Armed forces to meet evolving operational requirements. This purchase order highlights the strong and growing relationship between Elbit Systems and Romania and illustrates the increased interest in our UAS platforms from countries across Europe and NATO.”
The Watchkeeper X, which will assist Romania in improving its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities, is a tactical drone based on the Israeli Hermes 450 series and produced by a joint venture of Elbit, U-TacS, and Thales UK. For similar purposes, Romania previously signed a $321 million contract with the Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar Defense for the supply of Bayraktar TB2 drones.