💼 Business

Romania marks a milestone with the delivery of the first COBRA II armored vehicles

23 Jul 2026, 17:02

Otokar has announced the delivery of the first batch of 12 COBRA II armored vehicles, a significant step for Romania's military production capabilities. These vehicles were handed over to the Romanian Land Forces on Wednesday, showcasing the country’s growing role in the defense sector.

This delivery is part of a larger contract that includes 1,059 vehicles, valued at nearly 857 million euros. Currently, about 300 of these vehicles have been delivered, with expectations to deliver an additional 216 vehicles this year alone.

The Mediaș factory is a pivotal site, being the first Otokar production unit within the European Union and the only facility the group operates for military vehicle manufacturing in this region. The factory currently employs over 300 people, with plans to expand the team to approximately 400 in the near future.

The COBRA II model, launched in 2013, is designed for various military missions, offering troop transport, ballistic protection, and tactical operation capabilities. To date, more than 1,000 COBRA II vehicles have been delivered to various countries, with over 600 currently in active service.

In a strategic move, Otokar also acquired Automecanica S.A. for around 85 million euros, further solidifying its presence in Romania. By producing vehicles in Mediaș, Romania is positioned as an important player in Otokar's industrial chain, enhancing the nation's defense manufacturing landscape.