Romania has approved a large-scale defense modernization package valued at approximately €8.3 billion, including the purchase of 12 Airbus H225M Caracal helicopters and advanced radar systems. The helicopters will partially replace aging Puma platforms and are financed through the European Union’s SAFE funding program. Romania also approved procurement of likely Thales GM200 surveillance radars to strengthen national airspace monitoring. Beyond aviation, the package includes KF-41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, Skynex and Skyranger air defense systems from Rheinmetall, and additional armored vehicles under local assembly agreements. The program reflects Romania’s broader effort to modernize its armed forces, improve NATO interoperability, and strengthen domestic industrial participation in defense manufacturing.
