Romania marks a significant milestone with first COBRA II armored vehicles delivered to the Army

The Romanian Ministry of National Defense has received the first COBRA II armored vehicles produced in the country, marking a pivotal moment for the equipping of the Romanian Army. This achievement not only enhances military capabilities but also supports the development of the national defense industrial and technological base.

The contract for the supply of 1,059 COBRA II tactical armored vehicles was signed on November 27, 2024, with a value of approximately 4.263 billion RON or 852 million euros, excluding VAT. This multiyear agreement with Otokar emerged from a procurement procedure based on Government Decision no. 1.489/2022, reflecting a commitment to modernizing the armed forces.

As part of this initiative, a total of 276 COBRA II vehicles have been received by the Army by May 14, 2026, with deliveries taking place between December 20, 2025, and March 10, 2026. Notably, the production of the COBRA II series began in Mediaș in 2026, with the first 12 vehicles delivered to the Army in July of the same year.

Looking ahead, the year 2026 will see the delivery of an additional 216 vehicles produced in Mediaș, which will include four new configurations. By the end of the contract, over 780 of the 1,059 vehicles ordered are expected to be manufactured in Romania, further solidifying the country's role in defense production and international commitments, particularly in alignment with NATO's objectives set for 2025.