The ‘Tigru’ DAT Radar Surpasses 20,000 Hours of Air Surveillance in Romania

• The detachment reinforces air surveillance on NATO’s eastern flank

The AN/TPS-43M radar of the Tactical Air Detachment (DAT) ‘Tigru’, deployed at the Schitu barracks in Romania, has reached 20,000 operational hours monitoring NATO airspace on Europe’s eastern flank. This milestone demonstrates Spain's commitment to NATO's Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) operation, as part of NATO's ‘Standing Defence Plan, Persistent Effort’.

The high standards achieved in radar maintenance are the result of demanding training plans for radar maintenance personnel from the Air Control Mobile Group, as well as the efforts of all personnel from various units of the Spanish Air and Space Force forming part of the detachment. Additionally, support from the Logistics Centre for Transmissions has been crucial.

Since its deployment in October 2022, the radar has proven to be a reliable and efficient asset, playing a key role in strengthening allied presence in the region. The effective integration of radar data into NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence System through the Control and Reporting Centre (CRC) in Moara Vlasiei, near Bucharest, is vital for mission success, enabling a coordinated and effective response to any aerial threat.

The continuous readiness of the ‘Tigru’ Detachment and the operational capability of the AN/TPS-43M radar reflect Spain's ability to lead and execute air surveillance operations within the Alliance's airspace. With the provision of 20,000 hours of effective service, Spain’s significant contribution to NATO’s collective security and its role in fostering international cooperation are highlighted.

NATO IAMD Operation – ‘Persistent Effort’ Operation

The AN/TPS-43M radar deployed in Romania is part of NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence Operation (NATO IAMD), which is incorporated into NATO’s ‘Standing Defence Plan, Persistent Effort’. This plan also includes the NASAMS Air Defence Unit in Latvia, the Patriot Battery in Turkey, and the air detachments conducting Air Policing missions.

Overall, Spain’s participation in the protection of NATO’s eastern flank reflects the commitment Spain has made to the Alliance and serves as another example of solidarity with our allies, with whom we share the values that underpin and protect democracy, freedom, and global security.