Romania Plans €6.5 Billion Abrams Tank Procurement Program

Romania is advancing a major defense modernization program centered on acquiring over 200 new main battle tanks, primarily M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks, along with support vehicles, ammunition, training, and logistics, with a total estimated investment exceeding $7 billion. This initiative includes significant domestic production plans for tank components to strengthen Romania's defense industry and aligns with NATO and EU defense commitments. The first phase involved purchasing 54 modernized Abrams tanks from U.S. Army surplus, valued at about $1 billion, with delivery expected by 2028. Phase two and subsequent stages aim to add 216 tanks and 76 auxiliary vehicles, along with enhanced training and support systems, backed by parliamentary approval processes. Romania's move reflects heightened regional security concerns due to its proximity to Ukraine and ongoing tensions with Russia, further supported by European Commission funding through the Security Action for Europe scheme. The acquisition also enhances interoperability with U.S. forces and marks a strategic shift from Romania's older TR-85M1 tanks toward more advanced Western platforms.