Romanian Official Opens Munich Security Conference Session on Autonomous Warfare and NATO Black Sea Deterrence
Munich, The Gulf Observer: A high-level working session on the implications of autonomous warfare systems, including drones, was opened today at the Munich Security Conference, bringing together key transatlantic security leaders and experts.
The session, titled “Implications of Warfare with Autonomous Systems, Including Drones,” was inaugurated jointly with General Alexus Grynkewich, Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) and Commander of U.S. Forces in Europe. The discussion convened 35 decision-makers and security experts from across the transatlantic space, including Chris Brose, President of Anduril Industries.
During the session, emphasis was placed on strengthening the transatlantic defense industrial base, building on outcomes achieved at the NATO Industry Forum hosted in Bucharest last year. Participants underscored the need for enhanced diplomatic coordination on NATO’s Eastern Flank, expanded opportunities for the Romanian and allied defense industries, and the critical importance of technological innovation and shortening innovation cycles in response to emerging threats.
The speaker also highlighted the necessity of utilizing European Union funding mechanisms to address NATO’s defense requirements more effectively, stressing closer alignment between EU financial instruments and Alliance security priorities.
On the sidelines of the conference, discussions were held with General Grynkewich regarding NATO’s firm commitment to deterrence and defense in the Black Sea region. The talks focused on the framework provided by NATO’s “Eastern Sentry” mission, launched to counter violations of allied airspace and reinforce collective security along the Eastern Flank.
The working session was moderated by Kristi Raik, Director of the International Centre for Defence and Security in Estonia.
The discussions reflected growing international attention to the evolving role of autonomous systems in modern warfare and NATO’s ongoing efforts to adapt its deterrence posture to emerging technological and regional security challenges.
