Romania: defence ministry kicks off €6.5 billion project to acquire over 200 new main battle tanks

The first stage (Phase II) of the programme aims to complete the tank battalion’s capability built around the M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tank. Valued at USD 458.2 million (excluding VAT), this phase includes the purchase of machine guns, ammunition, spare parts, simulation and testing equipment, support services, technical assistance, transport and training.

Stage II of the programme has an estimated cost of EUR 6.49 billion (excluding VAT) and involves the acquisition of 216 main battle tanks and 76 auxiliary vehicles. These will be delivered to armoured and infantry units of the Romanian Land Forces and will be accompanied by logistics support and specialised training and exercise equipment.

The Ministry emphasised that the programme includes “measures to protect Romania’s security through technological and industrial cooperation,” with the aim that “tanks and their subsystems will be produced and maintained in the country”. This industrial approach covers not only final assembly but also the local production of major components.

The Romanian defence publication DefenseRomania reported that authorities are planning “significant localisation of equipment production in the country”, involving more than just assembly. Components such as armoured hulls and sighting systems, including elements related to weapons, are expected to be produced domestically to strengthen Romania’s industrial base.

According to the Ministry, this programme aligns with the implementation of capability targets committed to under NATO and EU defence planning processes. It forms part of Romania’s broader objective to transform its armed forces by 2040, under the national military transformation plan.

The acquisition effort began in 2023 with the initial phase (Stage I, Phase I), which covered the purchase of 54 modernised Abrams tanks and 12 support vehicles from US Army surplus stock. This phase is being executed under a government-to-government agreement with the United States, with a total value of USD 1.07 billion. All equipment is expected to be delivered by 2028.

While Abrams tanks have already been selected for the initial procurement, Romania previously explored multiple options, including the Leopard 2 and Korean K2 Panther tanks. The Korean company Hyundai reportedly made “the most open proposal” regarding technology transfer and industrial integration, with its K2 Panther noted for a “high level of planned industrial integration”.

The programme also includes negotiations for training Romanian specialists and transferring essential technologies to support long-term self-sufficiency. Final decisions on implementation depend on parliamentary review and the terms negotiated with defence manufacturers.

The Romanian government views this strategic investment as critical to modernising its ground forces, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and enhancing its national defence posture in the coming decades.

Source: Romanian Ministry of National Defence (press release).