NATO will establish its largest military base in Europe at Mihail Kogqlniceanu, Constanta, located in southeast Romania on the coast of the Black Sea, beyond the size of the US military base in Ramstein, Germany.
Romania will acquire a stronger position in the Black Sea and a larger role in the security architecture of NATO as a result of the new base.
By 2030, NATO and the US plan to move human resources and logistics from Ramstein to the Mihail Kogalniceanu base, which can house 10,000 soldiers and civilians.
Access roads and a high-capacity electrical network have already begun construction as part of the expansion.
Social housing will be built for individual personnel or families. There will be block-type housing, individual housing, nurseries, kindergartens, schools, pharmacies, everything that is needed,
Commander of Mihail Kogalniceanu, Nicolae Cretu
The base will be the most expansive in Europe, encompassing nearly 3,000 hectares. Approximately 2,000 hectares comprise Ramstein, Germany.
In addition to fuel depots and multiple hangars for various types of fighter jets and drones, the airport’s existing runway will be expanded by two-thirds. One additional runway for aircraft is among the objectives of NATO.
Budgetary allocations for the Romanian military in 2024 will exceed 20 billion euros, an increase of 45% compared to 2023. The funds are designated primarily for the acquisition of modern weaponry.