Rheinmetall closes US$6.5 billion deal to supply nearly 300 armored vehicles to Romania

Lynx armored vehicle. Photo: Rheinmetall
Lynx armored vehicle. Photo: Rheinmetall

Rheinmetall has secured a defense contract worth around US$6.56 billion with Romania, consolidating the largest international deal in the recent history of the German company.

The package was approved by Romanian authorities at the end of May and will receive funding from the SAFE program, created by the European Union to support major military purchases by member states.

The main highlight of the deal is the acquisition of 298 Lynx armored vehicles, which will be used in different roles, including troop transport, command, fire support and medical evacuation. Fleet standardization will allow the Romanian Army to carry out various types of missions using the same platform, reducing logistics costs and simplifying maintenance.

Lynx armored vehicle. Photo: Rheinmetall
Lynx armored vehicle. Photo: Rheinmetall

The contract also includes the purchase of Skyranger anti-aircraft systems, developed to counter drones and low-altitude aircraft, threats that have gained relevance in modern conflicts. Until the new equipment enters service, Rheinmetall will continue providing support for the Gepard anti-aircraft vehicles already used by Romania, ensuring the continuity of the country’s air defense capability.

Rheinmetall BOXER Skyranger 30 air defense system with 30 mm Oerlikon cannon
Rheinmetall BOXER Skyranger 30 air defense system with 30 mm Oerlikon cannon. Photo: Rheinmetall

In addition to land systems, the agreement includes reinforcements for the Romanian Navy, with the acquisition of two offshore patrol vessels and two diver support vessels. Deliveries are expected to take place between 2028 and 2030, accompanied by industrial investments of hundreds of millions of euros in Romania and the creation of thousands of jobs linked to the production and supply chain.

Source: UK Defence Journal | Photos: Rheinmetall | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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