Romanian army to get 54 modernized M1A2 Abrams tanks worth 1 billion euros.

Romania on May 16 announced it will officially start the purchase procedure of 54 modernized M1A2 Abrams tanks, after the Commission for Defense, Public Order and National Security in the Chamber of Deputies approved the acquisition.
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A U.S. Army M1A2 Abrams Tank, assigned to 3rd Sqn, 16th Cav Rgt, prepares to fire its 120mm main gun, Fort Benning, GA., July 20, 2021 (Picture source: U.S. Army Reserve/Staff Sgt. Austin Berner)

The Romanian Ministry of National Defense requested, at the beginning of April 2022, the Parliament leadership for the prior approval for the purchase of 54 modernized Abrams tanks: "We request the prior approval of the Parliament for the initiation of the procedure for awarding the contract related to the 'Main Battle Tank' endowment program, stage I. Stage I of the endowment program starting in 2023 involves the purchase of 54 modernized Abrams tanks in the M1A2 variant and 12 derivatives, in use, from the U.S. Army stock, including ammunition and training stimulators", the request of the Ministry of National Defense states. The acquisition will begin this year.

The envisioned purchase of 54 tanks along with accompanying gear and services is estimated to be worth about 1 billion euros ($1.1 billion), according to local news site DefenseRomania.ro. A relevant bill to authorize the acquisition is expected to be adopted by the parliament shortly. Notice that Romania initially expressed its intention to purchase approximately 200 Abrams tanks.

Romania could become the second operator of the Abrams in Europe after the Polish government signed a deal worth some $4.75 billion to acquire 250 M1A2 Abrams in April 2022. Last January, Poland’s Ministry of National Defence placed a second order, valued at about $1.4 billion, to buy 116 used M1A1 Abrams from the United States.

The M1A2 Abrams is powered by a 1,500-horsepower gas turbine engine, which propels this 70-ton behemoth to speeds exceeding 40 mph (64 km/h) on both paved roads and challenging off-road terrains. This remarkable mobility allows the Abrams to swiftly maneuver across various landscapes, ensuring rapid deployment and effective battlefield repositioning.

When it comes to protection, the M1A2 Abrams' composite and modular armor, reinforced with depleted uranium, provides protection in both conventional and asymmetrical warfare scenarios. With the incorporation of reactive armor and advanced Active Protection Systems (APS), the tank can effectively counter incoming projectiles and mitigate the risk of damage.

What truly sets the Abrams apart is its awe-inspiring firepower. Mounted on the Abrams is the fearsome M256 120mm smoothbore cannon, capable of firing a wide array of projectiles, including armor-piercing depleted uranium rounds and anti-personnel high-explosive shells. The tank's cutting-edge fire control system, incorporating thermal imaging and laser rangefinders, ensures unparalleled accuracy and target acquisition capabilities. Additionally, the Abrams features a secondary armament comprising a coaxial machine gun and a roof-mounted .50 heavy machine gun, offering enhanced defensive capabilities against infantry and light vehicles.

The M1A2 Abrams also boasts advanced technological features. Its integrated digital systems allow for real-time communication and coordination with other friendly forces on the battlefield, improving situational awareness and enabling rapid decision-making. The tank is equipped with a robust suite of sensors, including thermal and night vision systems, to provide the crew with unmatched visibility in low-light conditions or obscured environments.

Defense News May 2023