The Romanian Ministry of Defense has contracted with Rheinmetall to modernize the country’s Oerlikon GDF 103 air defense artillery systems. This is the first major order from Romania for the Düsseldorf-based technology company, and it is worth around €328 million.
The contract includes the delivery of four systems, as well as training, spare parts and other services. Two systems are to be delivered within the next two years, and two more within three years.
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“This substantial first-time order from the Romanian government widens our footprint in Central Europe. It also underscores Rheinmetall’s role as a leading supplier of ground-based air defense systems. Moreover, the order will bolster the defensive capabilities of the EU and NATO on Europe’s eastern flank, something we’re very happy about,”Armin Papperger, chairman of the executive board of Rheinmetall AG, said.
Rheinmetall has already been operating a service hub in Satu Mare, Romania (close to the country’s borders with Ukraine and Hungary), for several months now, where it maintains and services military vehicles.
Each of the systems ordered consists of an Oerlikon Skymaster TLCN fire control system; an X-Band Tactical Acquisition Radar 3D (X-TAR3D); six 35 mm GDF009 TREO Oerlikon Twin Guns, including autoloader; and two heavy-duty special trucks for transporting the fire control system and the tracking radar.
The GDF 103 is a highly mobile air defense system that is designed to protect against a wide range of threats, including aircraft, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles. The system is equipped with a 35 mm cannon that can fire up to 1,000 rounds per minute.
The modernization of Romania’s air defense systems is part of a broader effort by the country to modernize its military. Romania is a member of NATO and the European Union, and it is committed to playing a role in the defense of both organizations.
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