1st Surface to Air Missiles Brigade (Romania)
The 1st Surface to Air Missiles Brigade "General Nicolae Dăscălescu" (Brigada 1 Rachete Sol-Aer), is the main air defense unit of the Romanian Air Force. Its headquarters are located in Bucharest. The brigade was created on August 1, 1973, by gathering together the 18th and 19th SAM regiments. In 1995, it received the honorific name "General Nicolae Dăscălescu" (after Nicolae Dăscălescu 1884-1969) and a new battle flag. The main task of the 1st SAM Brigade is Bucharest's air defense.
| 1st Surface to Air Missiles Brigade "General Nicolae Dăscălescu" | |
|---|---|
 Official emblem of the 1st SAM Brigade | |
| Active | 1973–Present |
| Country | Romania |
| Branch | Romanian Air Force |
| Type | Air defense |
| Size | four battalions |
| Garrison/HQ | Bucharest |
| Commanders | |
| Current commander | Brigadier general Haralambie Oprea |
The brigade's area of responsibility covers approximately 20,000 square km. in four counties (Giurgiu, Ialomiţa, Dâmboviţa and Călăraşi). The unit currently operates S-75 M3 "Volhov", S-125 missiles, and MIM-23 Hawk missile systems. Between 2007–08, the 3rd Battalion converted from ZSU-23-4 Shilka and SA-8 anti-aircraft systems to the US-made MIM-23 Hawk system.
Structure
- 1st SAM Brigade - HQ at Bucharest
- 2nd SAM Battalion - Bucharest - S-125
- ?? SAM Battalion - S-75 and MIM-23 Hawk
- ?? SAM Battalion - SA-8 Osa and MIM-23 Hawk
- ?? SAM Battalion - S-75 and S-125
