Breaking News
Otokar Establishes a Subsidiary in Romania Following a Landmark Contract for COBRA II Armored Vehicles.
Turkish military and commercial vehicle manufacturer Otokar has announced the establishment of a subsidiary in Romania, Otokar Land Systems SRL, following the award of a significant contract by the Romanian Ministry of Defense. This development marks an important step in the company’s expansion into the European defense market and strengthens industrial cooperation between Turkey and Romania. The contract, signed in partnership with Romanian company Romtehnica, involves the delivery of 1,059 COBRA II 4×4 light tactical armored vehicles. Valued at approximately €857 million excluding VAT, this agreement is part of Romania’s broader efforts to modernize its armed forces and enhance operational capabilities.
The establishment of a local production facility in Romania aims not only to facilitate vehicle assembly but also to contribute to the growth of the country’s defense industry (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Under the terms of the contract signed on November 27, 2024, vehicle production will be divided between Turkey and Romania. The first 278 units will be manufactured in Turkey to ensure a prompt delivery start, while the remaining 781 will be assembled locally in Romania. The implementation of this program follows a phased delivery schedule over five years, with the first deliveries expected in the last quarter of 2025. This industrial model aims to accelerate the transfer of technological expertise and enhance Romania’s defense manufacturing capabilities. The establishment of the local subsidiary will also facilitate vehicle maintenance and logistical support throughout their operational lifecycle, contributing to Romania’s ability to manage its armored fleet efficiently.
Otokar, a key subsidiary of Turkish conglomerate Koç Holding, continues to expand its presence in Romania. The group is already involved in other industrial activities there, including automotive production with Ford Otosan in Craiova and home appliance manufacturing with Arctic in Gaesti. The creation of Otokar Land Systems SRL highlights the strategic importance of the Romanian market for the Turkish group, which views it as an opportunity to strengthen its position in Europe and diversify its defense sector activities.
The COBRA II 4×4, which is at the center of this contract, is a next-generation tactical armored vehicle introduced in 2013 and currently in service with more than 20 users across 13 countries. Designed to meet the requirements of modern conflicts, it is a modular platform adaptable to various mission profiles, including reconnaissance, troop transport, command and control, and countering asymmetric threats. It features reinforced armor, providing advanced protection against ballistic threats, landmines, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), while maintaining high mobility across different terrains.
The Romanian Ministry of Defense’s selection of COBRA II aligns with its objective of enhancing the operational capabilities of its armed forces, particularly within the framework of Romania’s commitments to NATO. Increasing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and the need to strengthen border security have influenced this acquisition, which aims to equip Romanian forces with a modern platform suitable for multinational operations.
The procurement process began in March 2024, when Otokar submitted its bid as part of a tender initiated by C.N. Romtehnica S.A., representing the Romanian Ministry of Defense. After completing qualification stages, technical evaluations, performance tests, and financial assessments, Otokar was officially announced as the winning bidder on October 4, 2024. This outcome reflects the company’s competitiveness in the European market, where it continues to expand its presence through industrial partnerships and technology transfers.
At the end of 2024, Otokar’s General Manager, İbrahim Aykut Özüner, emphasized the strategic significance of this contract for the company. He stated that Romania would become one of Otokar’s key focus areas in 2025, confirming that the initial delivery of 278 COBRA II vehicles would be completed within the year. This initiative positions Otokar as a significant player in the European land defense sector.
The establishment of a local production facility in Romania aims not only to facilitate vehicle assembly but also to contribute to the growth of the country’s defense industry. The contract includes investments in infrastructure, the training of Romanian engineers and technicians, and the development of a local supplier network for specific vehicle components. This approach is expected to strengthen Romania’s self-sufficiency in producing and maintaining light armored vehicles while benefiting from Turkish technology transfers.
This Turkish Romanian defense collaboration reflects a broader trend of industrial integration within the European and international military sector. By diversifying supply sources and developing local production capabilities, Romania seeks to modernize its military while supporting its national economy. The agreement with Otokar aligns with Romania’s broader strategy to reinforce its military and industrial capacity in response to current security challenges.
With the phased deployment of COBRA II vehicles within the Romanian armed forces, this program is expected to significantly enhance the country’s mobility and protection capabilities while strengthening its strategic ties with Turkey.