ROMANIAN – BULGARIAN CRITICAL COASTAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROTECTION
ROMANIAN – BULGARIAN CRITICAL COASTAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROTECTION

Author(s): Pavel-Traian FETTI, Lucian Valeriu SCIPANOV
Subject(s): Security and defense, Military Sciences
Published by: Carol I National Defence University Publishing House
Keywords: critical infrastructure; maritime security; seaports; energy infrastructure protection; regional cooperation.
Summary/Abstract: The article examines the legal prospects for cooperation in protecting critical coastal infrastructure at the Romanian-Bulgarian maritime border, highlighting the strategic and operational implications. The research underscores the presence of a diverse infrastructure at this shared Euro-Atlantic frontier, characterized by a concentration of major ports, energy terminals, offshore projects, and submarine cables that support regional trade, energy security, and digital connectivity. Specific risks to the Western Black Sea basin – including underwater sabotage, drifting mines, cyberattacks, and trade route disruptions – are assessed against the backdrop of recent geopolitical developments. By analyzing the international legal framework, grounded in UNCLOS provisions, IMO regulations, and EU norms, the study emphasizes the essential balance between freedom of navigation and security measures. The findings present various technical and institutional protection tools, such as VTS/VTMIS systems, naval surveillance, and regional cooperation, underlining the importance of an integrated and interoperable approach.

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