Romania invests hundreds of millions of euros in military technology, but local companies are missing from European programs
Romania has already begun allocating significant budgets for the modernization of its defense capabilities, accessing funds through the European SAFE program. These investments, which amount to hundreds of millions of euros, are intended for the acquisition of drones and advanced ammunition, which are essential for national security in the current geopolitical context.
However, there is a major issue regarding the origin of these technologies. Although the Romanian state is investing considerable sums, no Romanian company has managed, to date, to be selected for the European defense accelerator. This means that public money is being directed, for the most part, toward technologies developed by firms from other European countries.
Romanian entrepreneurs in the technology sector point out that the local industry needs more support to become competitive at an international level. They propose the creation of more efficient mechanisms through which domestic firms can access European funds and actively participate in the development of defense solutions, instead of being mere buyers.
The situation highlights a challenge for the Romanian economy: the need to transform the state's purchasing power into a development opportunity for the local private sector. Experts believe that, without a clear strategy to support national innovation, Romania risks remaining dependent on foreign technology in the long term.
In conclusion, although the efforts to modernize the army are visible and necessary, long-term success depends on the involvement of the local industry. The authorities are now facing an important decision regarding how they will manage future investments to encourage the creativity and performance of Romanian companies in this strategic sector.