Otokar is the only firm to submit an offer for Romania’s 4x4 armoured vehicle acquisition programme after the withdrawal of other candidates.
Sources from the Romanian defence industry told DefenseRomania that all firms except the Turkish Otokar withdrew from the competition after rigorous requirements and business conditions. It is still unconfirmed which vehicle has been offered.
Some withdrawn firms include the French Arquus with Sherpa Light 4x4, URO-Rafael JV, and U.S.-based Oshkosh with JLTV. Another Turkish armoured vehicle manufacturer, Nurol, also withdrew.
Oshkosh’s main reasons for withdrawal include offset and technology transfer conditions, which Congress didn’t approve.
Arquus, already bleeding out in Africa, which had been one of the firm’s primary markets, has lost its footing in another important country for France regarding defence equipment sales.
The acquisition programme spans multiple years, with 1059 ATBTU vehicles in nine configurations, including the basic version. Some of the other variants include anti-tank and utility. The total cost of the programme is estimated to be $1.005 billion.
If Otokar’s offer passes, this will be one of the largest land vehicle exports of the Turkish defence industry.
Otokar, Last Man Standing in Romanian Armoured Vehicle Bid
