Romania is considering a potential deal with South Korea to buy battle tanks K2 tanks against the background of the long delivery period of the American Abrams tanks, which are expected to arrive in Romania in 2026, reports the Digi 24 news channel, citing refers to the “Defense Express” (Defence Express).
„Defense Express“ is a company that offers media and consulting services and partners with more than 100 businesses and other organizations in Ukraine and elsewhere in the world.
According to “Defense Express” Romania is considering a contract to buy K2 tanks from South Korea, which could be delivered in record time. According to South Korea's Vice Defense Minister Son Il, the South Korean tanks could be delivered in a few months if the deal is approved, unlike the US Abrams tanks, whose first delivery is expected in 2026.
In 2023 Romania bought 54 "Abrams" battle tanks from the USA. for about $1.07 billion.
South Korea's production capabilities enable it to quickly meet the needs of NATO allies, and the country is committed to prioritizing the Alliance's needs, says “Defense Express”. Poland, for example, received its first tanks and self-propelled howitzers from South Korea only 102 days after the signing of the contract, "Defense Express" recalls.
Romania's interest in foreign tanks, such as K2, “Abrams“ and possibly “Leopard 2”, is affected by the changing battlefield flexibility strategy and the loss of local production capacity for tank modernization, notes “Defense Express”.
Initial discussions on the purchase of K2 tanks took place as early as December 2022, but Romania has not yet made a final decision on the matter.