Romania selects Rheinmetall Lynx IFV as local defence manufacturing expands
Production of the Otokar Cobra II (4x4) armoured vehicle has already started in Romania with the all-welded steel hull of this four-door version with load area at the rear shown in the manipulator. (Photo: Otokar)
As part of a multi-billion-dollar vehicle and artillery overhaul, Romania has officially selected the KF41 Lynx IFV to replace its ageing Soviet-based platforms.
Following a competitive evaluation, Romania has selected the German Rheinmetall KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) to meet its future requirements and is expected to place an initial contract for 232 vehicles through the EU’s Security Action For Europe (SAFE) funding programme.
Most of these will be built at the Rheinmetall Automecanica facility in Romania. The deal included a follow-on contract for a further 66 Lynx IFVs which will be funded through the normal defence budget in the future. The total programme, as noted on Shephard Defence Insight, is valued at €2.6 billion (US$3.04 billion),
The Lynx IFVs will replace the Romanian-built MLI-84 IFV
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Robots rule as large, wheeled systems with articulated legs stand out]()
Eurosatory 2026: Robots rule as large, wheeled systems with articulated legs stand out
Dozens of uncrewed ground vehicles have been on display at Eurosatory 2026, with particularly notable platforms including VisionWave's Varan and Patria's planned uncrewed TRACKX.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: AM General’s Hawkeye gains traction as JLTV A2 targets 2027 FRP]()
Eurosatory 2026: AM General’s Hawkeye gains traction as JLTV A2 targets 2027 FRP
AM General’s Hawkeye adds a howitzer to a light vehicle as the company highlights strong interest in the system following an order from Kosovo, with demonstrations scheduled for a dozen countries.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Land modernisation programmes gather pace across Europe and beyond]()
Eurosatory 2026: Land modernisation programmes gather pace across Europe and beyond
New armoured vehicles, artillery systems and robotic platforms on display at Eurosatory 2026 highlight how armies are seeking greater mobility, firepower, survivability and automation as they modernise ageing fleets and adapt to lessons from recent conflicts.
