The Ministry plans to acquire 246 tracked IFVs in five configurations: a standard combat version with a 30mm autocannon, a command variant, an armoured recovery vehicle, a medical evacuation vehicle, and a 120mm self-propelled mortar. Deliveries are expected to be completed within eight years from the contract signing, which is anticipated this year.
The acquisition of tracked infantry fighting vehicles is a priority for the Ministry of National Defence,” the ministry stated earlier in an email to Defence Industry Europe. The procurement will include not only the vehicles but also training simulators and initial logistical support, with the deal estimated to be worth €2.5 billion.
Offers will be evaluated using both technical (65%) and economic (35%) criteria. From the 27th vehicle onward, local assembly is required, and the winning bidder must implement a broad technology transfer to Romanian industry.
Romania expects local production of the vehicle hull from raw metal sheets, integration and partial manufacture of armour and mine-resistant seating, and production of specific weapons system components. These include elements such as the cannon cradle, drive systems, wiring, and mounting parts for the 30mm turret or 12.7mm remote weapon station.
The local defence industry’s role in areas such as optoelectronic systems, laser warning sensors, active protection systems, and communications will mostly involve integration and assembly. However, the software for communication systems must be developed in Romania from the first vehicle delivered.
Technology transfer must also cover maintenance throughout the vehicles’ operational life—diagnostics, repairs, replacement of the armour or drivetrain components. While the Ministry has not disclosed bidders, likely contenders include Rheinmetall’s KF41 Lynx, Hanwha Aerospace’s AS21 Redback, General Dynamics European Land Systems’ ASCOD 2, and BAE Systems’ CV90 Mk III/IV.
