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Turkish media cited local defense company Otokar as announcing that it had won a tender in Romania for the supply of wheeled armored vehicles. Otokar will supply Romania with its COBRA II 4×4 wheeled armored vehicle for a total value of just over 934 million USD. The deal includes the production and delivery of 1,059 COBRA II units and some integrated logistics units.
The deal involves industrial cooperation between the two Balkan countries, both NATO members. The first 278 units will be produced in the Turkish company’s production facilities in Turkey, and the rest in Romania, for which a production structure will be built.
Otokar received a letter from the Ministry of Defense of Romania that it was indeed the company that won the tender. “After the completion of the technical evaluation, field test, and commercial evaluation processes, the official contract negotiation invitation letter was sent to Otokar by the tender authority,” the Turkish sources wrote.
COBRA II is a modernized 4×4 armored personnel carrier platform developed by the Turkish company Otokar, designed for multi-purpose use in modern combat conditions. With dimensions of approximately 4.3 meters in length, 2.1 meters in width, and 1.8 meters in height, the vehicle offers high maneuverability and passability in a variety of terrains.
Propulsion is provided by a powerful diesel engine that generates around 300 horsepower, allowing a maximum speed of 100 km/h on asphalt and 10-15 km/h on more difficult terrain. The COBRA II is equipped with an advanced chassis control system and electronic driver assistance that facilitates maneuverability and stability in various conditions.
In terms of armament and surveillance systems, the COBRA II offers various options depending on the mission, including 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm machine guns, as well as modular systems that allow for the integration of anti-tank missiles and automated armaments.
External sensors include thermal imaging cameras, radars, and active protection systems that provide the crew with the necessary information about the surrounding environment and threats. The COBRA II is designed to serve in reconnaissance, personnel transport, and combat support roles, providing crew protection and rapid response capabilities in conflict zones.
Romania’s decision to purchase 1,059 COBRA II 4×4 wheeled armored vehicles from the Turkish company Otokar is driven by several strategic considerations, particularly in light of regional security concerns and the need for military modernization. Romanian officials have emphasized the importance of this acquisition for enhancing the nation’s defense capabilities.
The country’s Minister of National Defense, Angel Tîlvăr, highlighted that the purchase aligns with Romania’s ongoing military reorganization and modernization efforts aimed at strengthening deterrence against potential threats, particularly in the context of increased tensions in Eastern Europe due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Additionally, Romanian officials have pointed out that the introduction of the COBRA II vehicles is part of a broader initiative to revitalize the local defense industry. The acquisition requires more than half of the vehicles to be assembled in Romania, which is intended to foster local production capabilities and maintain a degree of sovereignty in defense manufacturing. This move reflects Romania’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities while simultaneously investing in its domestic defense sector, addressing concerns about self-sufficiency in defense procurement.
The COBRA II 4×4 wheeled armored vehicle has a notable operational history marked by its deployments in various missions and environments since its introduction. This versatile vehicle, developed by Turkish manufacturer Otokar, was first showcased in 2018 and has since been integrated into the armed forces of several countries, including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Ecuador. Its operational capabilities have been demonstrated in diverse conditions, effectively supporting military and security operations. The vehicle is designed to conduct tasks such as border patrol, internal security, reconnaissance, and personnel transportation.
In addition to its use by Turkish forces, the COBRA II has been spotted in conflict zones, particularly in Ukraine, where it has been utilized in response to ongoing military actions. The vehicle’s robust design allows it to perform efficiently in urban, rural, and various climatic conditions, providing ballistic and mine protection.
Its adaptability extends to multiple configurations, making it suitable for roles ranging from tactical reconnaissance to command and control. The COBRA II has proven to be a significant asset in enhancing the operational readiness of the forces that deploy it, demonstrating effectiveness in modern warfare and security challenges.
