Abstract of scientific papers

INSTRUMENTS FOR THE REALIZATION OF A RESILIENT MARITIME DOMAIN – Fănel RĂDULESCU Captain, Romanian Naval Forces Staff, Ion CHIORCEA, PhD – “Carol I” National Defence University

Abstract:

In a world in which tensions and the imposition of interests by force to the detriment of diplomacy are becoming more and more evident at both regional and global levels, a series of decisions must be taken to ensure early on the framework and measures necessary to strengthen essential capabilities and capacities. Therefore, as a consequence of the current developments in the Black Sea area, those capabilities that ensure, together with credible deterrence measures, the endurance, tenacity and resilience of the whole society in the face of all kinds of challenges should be strengthened as soon as possible. These measures take time, i.e. a high level of inter-institutional coordination and collaboration, which is why they should already be at a high stage of development in any state before it is subjected to the challenges and pressures of the evolving security environment, beyond its control. Developments and the impact of the war on Romania’s border, the most advanced eastern border of the EU and NATO, have not only considerably affected the already fragile balance at regional level, but have also produced repetitive reverberations which, on the one hand, threaten stability, the evolutionary path and internal security, and, on the other hand, have had an unprecedented impact over the last half century, particularly on the maritime domain. For this reason, it will always be a challenge to identify and generate tools to ensure the creation of a Maritime Domain adapted to respond to the current challenges, while being able to absorb the unpredictable shocks to which it is subject and to mitigate, in the shortest possible time, the magnitude of the resonant waves generated by them.

Keywords: deterrence, resilience, tenacity, resilience, security environment, maritime domain, stability, evolutionary path.

ENSURING LOGISTIC SUPPORT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CAPABILITIES OF THE ROMANIAN NAVY FORCES IN THE NEW SECURITY CONTEXT OF THE BLACK SEA REGION – Cdor. dr. eng. Munteanu Valentin

Abstract:

This paper addresses a current, important and highly complex topic. The importance of the scientific approach undertaken is given by the changes in the security environment after the annexation of the Crimean Peninsula in 2014 and the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation in 2022, and implicitly the need to develop maritime resilience in the era of hybrid threats. The complexity derives from the scope that the study can have on the identification of possible new approaches to the logistical support needed to develop the capabilities of the Romanian Naval Forces in the evolving context characterized by unpredictability of the regional security environment.

CURRENT AND FUTURE IN COMBATTING THE PHENOMENON OF MIGRATION ON THE BLACK SEA – Cpt. BURUIANĂ Bogdan-Marian, Asp. CORCIOVA Maria

Abstract:

The topic entitled “Current and future in combating the phenomenon of migration on the Black Sea” had as objective of the study the analysis of illegal migration actions on the Black Sea. The theme was structured in five sections. The introductory section includes the identification of the research problem and the research methods used. The second section presents the migration routes that Romania faces and compares the number of illegal immigrants and their impact on the country. The next section details illegal migration from 2013-2022 on the Black Sea. In this section, the statistics of the cases, their place of origin, the routes used, the type of boats, as well as the action taken to identify and apprehend them are exemplified. The fourth section presents the future course of action to combat illegal migration on the Black Sea, using new technological systems, but also limiting the phenomenon by deterrence or prevention. In the context of the new geopolitical tensions, the migration phenomenon may become a mode of action of the hybrid war and Romania needs to adopt a firm strategy. The last section presents the conclusions of the research by highlighting the level of danger of the phenomenon, its possible changes as well as ways to mitigate it.

IMPLICATIONS OF THE POSSIBLE INTEGRATION OF UKRAINE INTO NATO, ON THE REALIZATION OF AN INTEGRATED AND RESILIENT MARITIME DOMAIN – Commander Florin RODEANU, Asp. eng. WOLF IULIA-DIANA

Abstract

The Black Sea is a Euro-Atlantic scene that provides an important corridor for the transport of goods and energy between Asia and Europe. Since Europe wants to ensure maximum independence from Russian oil and gas, NATO and the EU have strong security policy interests in the Black Sea. In this paper I will highlight the PRO and CON implications of Ukraine’s membership of the North Atlantic Alliance in the current context of the Black Sea region. In doing so, I want to make an objective analysis of the interests of the littoral states in achieving security and stability in an integrated and resilient maritime space. The novelty highlights the need to revive a strategic concept initiated in 2016, in the context of the annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation, by creating a task force in the Black Sea. In other words, achieving military cooperation of the littoral states, receiving security support and assistance from NATO allies through participation in joint military exercises and training activities in the Black Sea basin.

SPECIAL NAVY DRONE FLEET – Lt Cdr Ioan MOLDOVAN

Abstract:

This paper aims to provide an overview of the use of naval drones at the international level and to offer a possible project for a tactical structure, specific to the Romanian Naval Forces, which could acquire and develop unconventional naval capabilities. Moreover, the use of naval drones could have a strategic impact on the conduct of military actions in the event of a conflict in the Black Sea area. The article uses domain observation and cross-sectional analysis dedicated to identifying the current state of naval drones, technological trends for naval drones, and the importance of naval drones in the event of a conflict. To do this, we aimed to identify the current status and outlook of naval drones at the international level, in this regard, we will present the interest of major powers in naval drones used for military purposes and analyze the war in Ukraine, which uses for the first time in a military conflict this type of military capabilities. Next, we look at the principles of using naval drones that can change naval tactics. We also highlight the technological advantages and disadvantages of using naval drones. The novelty of this article is the presentation of a possible major project for the Romanian Naval Forces that stems from the analysis and highlighting of the effective use of naval drones in the Ukrainian War and how these capabilities can change naval tactics. Through this endeavour, we are reaching out to Naval Forces personnel and researchers, to those who contribute to the implementation of feasible ideas within the Romanian Naval Forces and wish to acquire naval combat drones to deter the actions of a potential adversary.

EU-NATO COOPERATION: WHAT HAS BEEN DONE, WHAT SHOULD BE DONE IN THE FIELD OF MARITIME RESILIENCE – Lt. Cdr Mădălina DRĂGAN-GHIGALĂU, Cdr Florian TUDORAȘCU

Abstract:

Hybrid threats are a crucial factor affecting global security, making it necessary to have a maritime approach as well. Thus, European Union and North Atlantic Treaty Organization member states will have to find solutions and adopt measures to improve maritime resilience. Both the EU and NATO have recognised the importance of cooperation in a number of areas through several joint declarations, including: resilience and critical infrastructure protection, cyber security, hybrid threats, operational cooperation, including maritime issues and capacity building. These strategic areas, on which the two organisations have been working together for years, are related or represent direct solutions to increase maritime resilience. Whether the steps taken by the EU and NATO are effective and sufficient in addressing hybrid threats, especially in the context of newly emerging technologies, drones or advanced monitoring systems will need to be examined. In an area as vital to the global economy and stability as the maritime domain, the solution may lie in continued collaboration, robust strategies, resource consolidation, education and countering disinformation.

MOBILISING INTERNATIONAL MILITARY, ECONOMIC AND HUMANITARIAN SUPPORT FOR ROMANIA IN THE EVENT OF HYBRID ARMED CONFLICT. NATIONAL RESILIENCE REQUIREMENTS – Lt. Col. CUZMIN Florentin, Cpt. POPA Nicolae Cristian

Abstract:

In the new model of world order emerging after the fall of the Iron Curtain and the end of the Cold War, military power has retained its essential value in the process of evolution of national/international security. The resolution of new conflicts of interest, the revisionist tendencies of some states or the reconfiguration of some areas of influence in recent decades have led to the reassertion on the economic, political and military scene of new state actors, capable of redefining the concept of military conflict for the 21st century through the amplification, multiplication and diversification of new asymmetric threats, highlighting the new concept of hybrid warfare, often encountered in most ongoing or frozen military conflicts. The content of this study will be attributed to a succinct but, in a more complex approach, a brief description of the proliferation of hybrid warfare in the wider Black Sea area and its influence on key national resilience requirements. For a more cursive approach, the main characteristics of hybrid warfare will be presented and developed and the main requirements of national resilience will be reiterated in accordance with NATO doctrine, necessary for the protection of Romania’s political, economic and military interests, from the point of view of a NATO border security guarantor, on whose borders an armed conflict between two non-NATO states is ongoing, the whole analysis of the study being carried out through a linear comparison between the Republic of Ukraine and Romania. The objective of this study is to provide a more exhaustive description of Romania’s position in the geostrategic context of collective security in the Black Sea region, to provide a more realistic awareness of the security threats both internally and externally, and to provide a fictitious exercise of the possibilities of reaction of the state and civil society in a similar situation as that of the Republic of Ukraine.

PROTECTION OF DRILLING AND EXTRACTION PLATFORMS AND CRITICAL NATIONAL AND EUROPEAN UNDERWATER INFRASTRUCTURES WITH THE HELP OF UNDERWATER SCREWS AND ROBOTS – Lt. Adriana AGAPE , Lt. cdor eng. Andrei BURSUC, CS II Dr. eng. Simona RUS

Abstract:

The military aggression between Ukraine and the Russian Federation has fundamentally and irreversibly changed the security vision of the Black Sea area. Consequently, the development of a maritime security strategy in Romania to strengthen its strategic position as a Black Sea littoral state becomes mandatory. This strategy must enable it to exploit its full potential to promote national interests in the exclusive maritime area and beyond, and to develop and evaluate a resilient maritime system as soon as possible. Romania is one of the European countries with significant on-shore and off-shore natural gas resources, crude oil reserves and also power generation capacity, being one of the advanced EU countries in terms of the proportion of renewable energy produced and delivered to its own energy grid. A topical subject, the military or non-military, overt or covert, conventional and unconventional possible threats, specific to the Romanian coastal area, which can be used in a coordinated way by state or non-state actors to achieve a certain goal (political, economic, social, etc.) will be analysed in this paper both from the national military and civilian and NATO-EU perspectives. The aspects studied are: Types of threats, potential targets, specific actions carried out over the years by Romanian divers together with other forces of the National Defence System and NATO and EU partners, particular events and ways to solve them with the help of divers and underwater robots, definition of hybrid threats to underwater targets (under the competence of the Romanian Naval Forces), highlighting the possibilities of preventing and combating any threats to critical underwater targets/structures/infrastructures, diplomacy and policy to combat military, hybrid and terrorist phenomena.

MARINE GEOSPACE INFORMATION SUPPORT, FROM CHALLENGE TO OPPORTUNITY – Lt. Cdr. Eng. CS Valentin DEMENTE

Abstract:

The world is changing and with it the strategic environment is changing, sometimes at an unexpectedly fast and unpredictable pace. This change came with the outbreak of the Ukraine – Russia conflict in February 2022 and started with the warning to mariners announcing the danger posed by the approximately 400 mines launched in the Odessa Gulf area. What followed was a long string of incidents along the coasts of Black Sea littoral countries, disrupting all maritime domains. The critical situation proved to be the perfect opportunity to test new marine geospatial intelligence support capabilities tailored to manage this type of crisis and respond to new intelligence requirements and conflict developments. NATO’s own specialised and standardised structures supported the FNR’s crisis countermeasures efforts by monitoring and analysing drifting contacts, developing daily current forecasts and movement estimates of suspect objects, and not least by working with the shipping and extraction industry to maintain freedom of navigation and ensure the protection of national critical infrastructure.

STRATEGIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A RESILIENT AND SUSTAINABLE SEA ENERGY SECTOR – Lieutenant Commander Emil IACOBESCU, Captain Octavian CÎRSTIAN

Abstract:

In this paper, some of the current problems faced by the maritime domain, the importance and the possibilities of exploiting the maritime potential in the Black Sea area have been addressed. How can we harmonize the human-nature communion, in essence make use of the resources that nature offers us and protect it at the same time. Thanks to the development of technology, humanity’s major challenge today should become easier to achieve. Romania can be considered a regional pivot in the field of energy, both because of its geostrategic position and its natural wealth. With the help of advanced technologies, we can contribute to increasing the capacity to obtain energy from renewable sources and thus reduce polluting emissions and optimise fuel consumption. However, with a regional war that cannot take environmental protection into account, the Black Sea risks ecological disaster. In conclusion, in order to increase maritime resilience, a possible solution is to develop a maritime energy sector by adopting/continuing a series of measures such as: implementing advanced technologies and developing a renewable energy system.

NEW PROJECTS AND STRATEGIC PROJECTS IN THE BLACK SEA REGION, COLLABORATIVE PROJECTS (PESCO) AS A RESPONSE TO CURRENT AND FUTURE THREATS – Captain Gigi DODE

Abstract:

According to Council Decision 2021/2008 of 16 November 2021, Romania is currently participating in 16 PESCO projects as a Member State and 4 others as an observer, acting as the coordinating nation for two projects: the EU Network of Diving Centers – EUNDC and the CBRN Defense Training Range – CBRND TR. This approach confirms our involvement in the EU capability development process and demonstrates once again our concrete contribution to the development of defence capabilities on a solid basis, by reducing duplication of effort, pooling resources and providing the necessary forces to execute EU/NATO missions. Romania has one set of capabilities at the disposal of the EU and NATO. Priority actions under the CDP (Capability Development Plan) are closely linked to the development of a single set of capabilities.

CHANGES IN ROMANIAN MINDSET ON MARITIME RESILIENCE – USE OF USV-UROS in NAVY FORCES – Lt.

Abstract:

The present paper aims, as the title suggests, to identify possible changes in Romania’s mindset on maritime domain resilience. In order to achieve this goal, I will use a series of questions that will help me in structuring the paper. The first chapter will focus on concepts. After studying defence planning documents I will try to answer the following questions: What does the concept of resilience entail? What about resilience in the maritime domain? I will then review the main threats to the maritime domain in the Black Sea basin, with direct reference to the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian conflict since February 2022, highlighting a number of issues concerning the use of maritime drones in the Black Sea basin. Black Sea basin. Taking into account a number of lessons identified from the use of USVs and UUVs in the conflict in Ukraine and a number of advantages and disadvantages of using maritime drones in combat, I will try to formulate conclusions that may lead to the identification of opportunities for Romania in the use of such types of military equipment, which in the future will lead to increased resilience of the maritime domain. The research methods used throughout the paper were the study of official documents on the relevant websites, comparative analysis and the formulation of some assessments.

THE WAR IN UKRAINE: SPECIFIC STRATEGIC CHALLENGES AND POSSIBLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ROMANIA – Asp. eng. Daliana-Maria MOLDOVAN

Abstract:

The paper deals with a topical issue that has a considerable impact on Romania and NATO member states. Actions that were initially presented as a “special military operation” by influential people in Russia have become a real threat to the member states of the North Atlantic Alliance, thus generating problems on various levels. The objectives and conduct of the Russian Federation’s actions against Ukraine define a true conventional war, which has involved the need for NATO decision-makers to be present and for appropriate measures to be taken to protect the national security situation. Romania plays a key role because of its geographical location in the vicinity of the conflict zone, which creates a number of strategic challenges resulting from the evolution of the war. This paper is structured in four chapters and aims to provide a brief overview of how the conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine has unfolded, highlighting some introductory aspects of the connections between the two states and the geostrategic situation in Eastern Europe. The impact of the war in Ukraine on Romania is also presented, covering both strategic interests and political, humanitarian, social and environmental perspectives. The paper concludes with conclusions that qualify both the multidimensional efforts Romania has been subjected to and its interest in keeping the conflict area as far away from the border as possible.

NEW CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIC PROJECTS IN THE BLACK SEA – Sgt. Alexandru SPINOSU

Abstract:

NATO’s traditional collective defence preparations and commitments face a significant challenge in addressing the conflict in Ukraine, which combines many well-known elements with modern concepts and capabilities in a multidimensional and flexible approach. With the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation in February 2022, there is a new geopolitical reality in the Black Sea region. After the capture of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol in May, Russia has turned the Sea of Azov into a Russian lake and is also seeking maximum control of the Black Sea. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of threats and strategic initiatives in the Black Sea region, highlighting the importance of international collaboration and joint projects in addressing these challenges.

PROTECTION OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENTS IN ROMANIA’S EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE – Asp. Maria-Cătălina DAN

Abstract:

This paper aims to highlight the main threats to the security of energy resources in the Black Sea basin, and their management, in order to mitigate or eliminate them. Due to the fact that the strategic environment in which we operate is constantly changing, being more and more challenging, and the technological context more and more advanced; Romania is forced to develop a new naval strategic concept, which can correlate the capabilities of the Romanian Naval Forces with Romania’s interests in the Black Sea. Romania’s Exclusive Economic Zone is rich in energy resources (hydrocarbons), the exploitation of which can contribute to the country’s economic development. This energy potential of the Black Sea gives it a significant geostrategic role for the European Union and puts the protection of offshore energy resources among Romania’s main maritime interests. Of the many institutions working in the Black Sea to ensure maritime security, the Romanian Naval Force is the main structure empowered in this regard and has as its area of responsibility both the territorial waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone of Romania. As these resources are considered critical infrastructure elements, in order to protect them it is necessary to strengthen Romania’s naval capabilities both conceptually and technologically so as to counter possible threats.

MARITIME OPERATIONS IN THE WAR IN UKRAINE – Captain Engineer TUNARU Victor-Alexandru – Master of Leadership/UNAp

Abstract:

The war in Ukraine is taking place in an unprecedented contemporary setting, marked by the great availability of cutting-edge information, which is transmitted from the epicenter of the conflict in record time and in an unusual way, reaching all corners of the planet. International newspapers, social media, blogs, podcasts and even streaming channels are broadcasting events and stories recorded by soldiers on both sides along an extensive and diffuse battlefront. Despite this, events in the naval sphere and tactics and incidents at sea remain out of media focus and, due to their nature and scope, remain submerged under the ‘fog of the sea’, separated by telephone networks and 4G communication speed. Nevertheless, the Russian Navy’s recklessness is having a notable impact on the course of events on land and the great global economic crisis that the conflict implies. Undoubtedly, the projection capability and enormous destructive power of naval assets make the Russian navy a key axis of the conflict.

THE INFLUENCE OF THE RIVER COMMUNICATIONS ROUTE ON THE BALANCE OF POWER IN THE LOWER DUNAR REGION – Capt. Eng. Valentin-Lucian MAFTEI – Master of Management/UNAp

Abstract

In this paper I propose to analyze how the river communication route, represented by the Danube River, influences the balance of power in the Lower Danube region, considering power as a combination of components: military, informational, developmental, financial, intelligence, economic, legal and diplomatic. I propose to carry out this analysis because so far most of the strategies and works on the influence of the river route on the balance of power in the Danube region have been focused on single components of power, not from the perspective of a whole and how its components can be shaped to achieve outcomes that positively affect the whole power system. For this I will follow and develop three main directions: defining power and determining the component elements considered for the realization of the analysis, defining the balance of power and determining the possibilities for its realization, analyzing the geostrategic influence of the river communication route on the power components considered in the Lower Danube region. At the end of the paper I aim to present a clear idea of the level of influence of the river communication route on the balance of power in the Lower Danube region and to determine the ways in which this influence can be exploited to maintain or improve this balance of power.

INTERACTION BETWEEN ELECTROMAGNETIC SPACE AND VIRTUAL SPACE: IMPLICATIONS IN THE MARITIME FIELD – EMIL FEȘTEU – Master of Management/UNAp

Abstract:

The interaction between electromagnetic space and virtual space has transformed the maritime domain, offering new opportunities and challenges. This paper explores the complex relationship between these two domains and analyses their implications in different aspects of maritime operations. From using wireless connectivity and virtual environments to enhance operations, to addressing cyber security concerns, the integration of these spaces is reshaping the way maritime activities are conducted. By adapting, innovating and harnessing the potential of this convergence, maritime industry players can achieve a safer, more efficient and interconnected maritime ecosystem. As technology advances rapidly, it is essential that the maritime industry adapts to new trends and maximises its benefits. The emergence of 5G networks and beyond paves the way for high-speed connectivity, enabling real-time data transfers and communication in virtual environments. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are bringing automation to maritime operations, optimising efficiency and taking into account factors such as predictability and data analytics. Blockchain technology also brings an increased level of security to maritime transactions in the virtual sphere, protecting information and ensuring its transparency and authenticity. By adapting to these emerging trends and addressing cybersecurity challenges, the maritime industry can successfully navigate the ever-changing landscape and unlock the full potential of the interplay between electromagnetic and cyberspace.

CIVIL-MILITARY COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF MARITIME SECURITY – Lt. Iulian-George ANGHEL – Master of Leadership/UNAp

Abstract

In this paper I intend to address the issue of civil-military cooperation as a solution to reduce current vulnerabilities related to maritime security, by identifying those approaches that present the best opportunities for timely and effective collaboration, as well as by analyzing the current state of civil-military cooperation. In order to fully cover the subject matter, I have set myself the following objectives: to describe the term “maritime security” and to argue the importance and contribution of CIMIC in achieving maritime security, after which I will address the novelty element of my paper, namely the capability of the Naval Forces to cooperate with civilian institutions in the maritime domain – NCAGS. At the end of the paper, in order to achieve the set objectives, I will elaborate a case study on the contribution of the NCAGS to the Romanian Naval Forces’ effort to secure commercial traffic in the Black Sea after the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine. As research methods for the initiated approach I used descriptive analysis and case study on the situation in the Black Sea after 24 February 2022. The final aim of the present article is to highlight the importance of cooperation in ensuring maritime security, as most of the entities involved in the vast maritime domain, including here civilian and military actors, have over time developed strategies and policies to respond to the main issues affecting maritime security, very often independently.

LFATS TECHNOLOGY – A REVOLUTION IN BLACK SEA REGIONAL SECURITY – Lt. Adrian Ionuț BĂLAN – Master of Management/UNAp

Abstract

Low-Frequency Active Towed Sonar (LFATS) is a state-of-the-art technology that is gaining more and more importance in maritime defence, research and exploration. In this paper I will present an analysis of the use of LFATS technology in the Black Sea, looking at the history of its use, its advantages and challenges, and case studies of its current and future use. Given that it is a capability currently being implemented in the Romanian Naval Forces, I am doing this work to support students and masters students in order to give them an overview of this technology. LFATS technology is currently used in the Black Sea for detection of submarines and other underwater objects, monitoring of ecological systems, geological formation surveys and environmental hazard detection. Using a comparative analysis, I will present the advantages, disadvantages and challenges of using LFATS in the Black Sea, concretised by case studies of the use of this technology in different fields such as defence, research and exploration. I will also analyse the future prospects for the use of LFATS in the region and make recommendations for a responsible and sustainable use of this technology in the Black Sea. In conclusion, LFATS technology represents an innovative solution for monitoring the Black Sea and its ecosystems, however, the use of this technology must be done with care and responsibility, taking into account its impact on the marine environment.

MISSION COMMAND AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE – GEORGE – MIREL STANCIU – – Master of Management/UNAp

Abstract

This paper explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and mission command, focusing on the challenges and obstacles encountered in achieving coherent and effective integration. Mission command, rooted in the Prussian military revolution, emphasizes decentralized decision-making and initiative at all levels of command. AI, as an intelligent tool, presents unique opportunities and challenges in the context of mission command. The article examines the barriers to understanding and trust that must be addressed to effectively integrate AI into the mission command philosophy. It discusses historical attempts to develop AI tools for this and highlights the importance of overcoming obstacles to realize the potential benefits of AI in improving command and control processes. The article concludes by stressing the need for a unified effort by AI developers and military personnel to overcome these challenges and achieve successful integration.

Unmanned combat systems in armed conflicts at sea – a new kind of warfare – Zalum Marius — Master of Leadership/UNAp

Abstract:

This article explores the impact and consequences of using unmanned combat systems in naval operations, focusing in particular on Ukrainian naval drone attacks on the Russian naval base in Sevastopol and the oil terminal in Novorossiysk. The main objective is to analyse the effectiveness and potential of these systems in causing significant damage to the naval capabilities and maritime infrastructure of a potential adversary. It also examines, the consequences and implications of these attacks for naval operations and defence strategies. Emphasis is placed on the need to develop effective countermeasures and defence strategies against the maritime drone threat. It also explores the potential for collaboration and information sharing between naval forces to develop methods to detect, counter and neutralise maritime drones.

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