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The Romanian Ministry of National Defence (MApN) is set to sign a major contract in 2025 for the acquisition of 246 tracked infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) as part of a broader modernization effort for its mechanized infantry battalions.
This project, categorized as a priority defense program, is projected to surpass €2.5 billion ($2.8B) in its first phase, with the full procurement potentially reaching €3 billion ($3.3B). The goal is to replace the aging MLI-84 and MLI-84M "Jderul" models currently in service with the Romanian Land Forces.
Romania’s Ministry of Defence views this procurement as an essential step toward bolstering the mobility, firepower, and protection capabilities of its military.
The new IFVs will form the backbone of future mechanized brigades, enhancing Romania’s integration into NATO missions and increasing its deterrent capabilities in light of growing regional tensions, particularly with Russia.
Romania’s existing fleet includes around 142 tracked IFVs, the majority of which are based on the Soviet-era MLI-84 design. Although the MLI-84M underwent upgrades in the 1990s to bring it closer to NATO standards, these vehicles are now considered outdated and increasingly difficult to maintain. The procurement is designed to improve Romania’s defense posture, with plans to equip 10 to 15 mechanized battalions with modern combat vehicles.
Among the major international defense firms eyeing this lucrative contract is Otokar, a prominent Turkish defense company.
Otokar has reportedly expressed its intent to participate in the tender with its Tulpar tracked armored vehicle platform. The Tulpar is designed to meet the operational requirements of modern mechanized forces, combining enhanced mobility with robust protection and firepower.
Otokar’s emphasis on local production and technology transfer aligns with Romania’s industrial aspirations. The Romanian government is not only interested in acquiring new vehicles but also in fostering local manufacturing capabilities, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) infrastructure.
Otokar’s readiness to support technology transfer positions it as a strong contender for the contract, which is expected to involve local production elements and offset mechanisms.
Several defense companies have expressed interest in the Romanian IFV procurement program. Companies participating in the BSDA 2024 exhibition in Bucharest included Rheinmetall from Germany (KF41 Lynx), BAE Systems from the UK (CV90), Hanwha Aerospace from South Korea (Redback), and General Dynamics European Land Systems (ASCOD 2).
Other firms, including Poland's PGZ with the Borsuk IFV and Otokar with the Tulpar, have also made known their interest in the contract. These companies are not new to Romania’s defense sector, with many having existing or past collaborations with the Romanian military.
TWEET: Turkish defense firm Otokar enters Romania’s $2.8B armored vehicle tender with its Tulpar IFV, aiming to modernize Romania’s mechanized infantry and strengthen NATO integration
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