IRIA News

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Romania’s Ministry of National Defense signed a €857 ($903) million deal with Turkey’s Otokar to purchase 1,059 Cobra II 4×4 armored vehicles. Under the agreement, a significant portion of the vehicles will be produced locally in Romania, marking a milestone in the country’s defense modernization efforts.

The deal comes after Otokar successfully won a competitive tender launched by C.N. Romtehnica S.A., which represents the Ministry of National Defense in Romania. Otokar’s bid was submitted on March 20, 2024, and following an extensive evaluation process, including technical assessments, field tests, and financial reviews, Otokar was confirmed as the winning bidder on October 4, 2024.

The contract stipulates the production of the first 278 Cobra II vehicles in Otokar’s facilities in Turkey, with the remaining units to be assembled in Romania. Deliveries are expected to begin in the last quarter of 2025, with the full delivery schedule spanning five years.

In addition to the 1,059 vehicles, the contract includes comprehensive integrated logistics support services to ensure operational efficiency throughout the lifespan of the fleet.

Cobra II 4×4 Armored Vehicle

The Cobra II 4×4 is an advanced, highly versatile light tactical armored vehicle, designed to meet the needs of modern military operations. Since its introduction in 2013, the vehicle has been developed in over 30 different configurations to suit a wide range of operational requirements. The Cobra II is used by over 20 customers across 13 countries, showcasing its reliability and adaptability in various environments.

One of the standout features of the Cobra II is its modular design. The platform can be adapted for various mission roles, including command and control, reconnaissance, armored personnel carrier, ambulance, and more. This flexibility allows the vehicle to be tailored to the specific needs of any military force, including Romania’s Ministry of Defense.

Key features and specifications of the Cobra II include:

Protection and armor: The Cobra II is specifically designed to provide superior protection against a wide array of threats, including ballistic, mine, and IED (Improvised Explosive Device) attacks. Its armored hull ensures the safety of personnel even in hostile environments, providing all-around protection while maintaining high maneuverability.

Mobility: The vehicle’s high power-to-weight ratio enables it to achieve exceptional mobility in challenging terrains. It is equipped with a robust 4×4 drivetrain, allowing it to traverse rough landscapes with ease, making it ideal for both urban combat and off-road missions.

Weapon systems: The Cobra II is designed to integrate a wide range of weapons and mission-specific equipment. It can be equipped with remote weapon stations (RWS), machine guns, anti-tank guided missiles, and other advanced weaponry, making it a versatile platform for combat operations.

Crew capacity: The vehicle can carry up to 10 personnel, including the driver, gunner, and commander, along with additional troops, depending on the configuration. The layout of the vehicle prioritizes crew safety, with a focus on ease of access and egress in high-stress situations.

Technology and command systems: The Cobra II can be outfitted with advanced communication systems, navigation aids, and battlefield management software, ensuring that the vehicle is not only a robust platform for combat but also a highly effective command center.

Otokar’s Expertise and Romania’s Strategic Needs

Otokar has nearly four decades of experience in the defense sector, having developed and delivered a wide range of tactical military vehicles to customers worldwide. The Cobra II is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation, durability, and performance in the defense industry.

For Romania, the acquisition of the Cobra II 4×4 vehicles represents a crucial step in modernizing its armed forces and enhancing the country’s ability to address contemporary security challenges. The light tactical vehicle will provide the Romanian military with greater mobility, protection, and firepower, reinforcing the nation’s defense capabilities within NATO and addressing regional security threats.

Otokar’s success in securing this deal with Romania underscores the company’s growing presence in the global defense industry. It also highlights the importance of modern, versatile armored vehicles like the Cobra II in meeting the evolving needs of military forces around the world.