Romania Expands Military Capabilities with Acquisition of 44 Used Amphibious Assault Vehicles from the US
Bucharest, Romania – In a significant move to modernize its military capabilities, Romania’s Ministry of Defence is set to double its order of Amphibious Assault Vehicles (AAVs) from the United States, now planning to acquire 44 used AAV-7s. This initiative, aimed at enhancing the operational readiness and competitiveness of the Romanian Army by 2040, reflects the country’s ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving security threats in the region.
The potential contract, valued at approximately $210 million, consists of vehicles sourced from the US Marine Corps’ stockpile and has been submitted to the Romanian parliament for approval. The AAV-7, a versatile amphibious vehicle developed by BAE Systems, is designed to improve warfighter survival rates in combat while providing enhanced firepower, maneuverability, and situational awareness.
The AAV-7 measures 8 meters (26 feet) in length and weighs around 29 tons. It features 45-millimeter armor, an interior capacity for up to 20 personnel, and is armed with a heavy machine gun and an automatic grenade launcher. The vehicle is powered by a V8 engine that delivers approximately 500 horsepower, enabling it to achieve a maximum range of 480 kilometers (298 miles) on land and 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers/23 miles) in water. On land, the AAV-7 can reach speeds of 72 kilometers (45 miles) per hour, while it moves at about 13 kilometers (8 miles) per hour in water.
The AAV-7 is primarily utilized by the US Marine Corps for various purposes, including rugged operations, troop landings, and cargo transport. The addition of these vehicles to the Romanian Army is expected to bolster the nation’s military capabilities and enhance its operational effectiveness in various combat scenarios.
As the region faces increasing security dynamics, Romania’s proactive approach to military modernization demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a robust defense posture amidst evolving global threats.
