In a groundbreaking move that’s set to redefine armored warfare, Turkey’s leading defense innovator, Otokar, has rolled out its latest masterpiece—the Cobra II 4×4 armored vehicle—tailored specifically for the Romanian Army and armed with a formidable 25mm cannon. Unveiled with much fanfare, this cutting-edge tactical vehicle is making waves at the global defense stage, promising to bolster Romania’s military might amid escalating regional tensions. With a sleek design, unmatched versatility, and a robust partnership between Turkey and Romania, the Cobra II is poised to become a cornerstone of modern battlefield strategies.
A New Era of Armored Excellence
The Cobra II, a brainchild of Otokar’s relentless pursuit of innovation, was first introduced to the world in 2013 as an evolution of the widely acclaimed Cobra I platform. This light 4×4 tactical armored personnel carrier has since undergone significant enhancements, emerging as a multi-role titan capable of dominating diverse combat scenarios. The latest variant, customized for the Romanian Army, showcases Otokar’s commitment to meeting the specific needs of its international partners while pushing the boundaries of armored vehicle technology.
At the heart of this beast lies its 25mm cannon, a weapon system that delivers devastating firepower with precision. Integrated into a remotely operated weapon station, the cannon enhances the vehicle’s ability to engage both ground and aerial threats, making it a versatile asset for troop transport, reconnaissance, and direct combat roles. The unveiling of this Romanian-specific version marks a pivotal moment, aligning with a landmark contract signed in November 2024, under which Romania will acquire 1,059 Cobra II vehicles—a deal valued at approximately €857 million.
Strategic Partnership Fuels Local Production
This unveiling is more than just a display of military hardware; it’s a testament to the deepening defense collaboration between Turkey and Romania. Following the contract award, Otokar established a subsidiary, Otokar Land Systems SRL, and forged a 50-50 joint venture with Romania’s Automecanica S.A., creating Sisteme Apărare Romania (SAROM). This partnership is set to revolutionize local manufacturing, with the first 278 vehicles produced at Otokar’s facilities in Turkey, while the remaining 781 will be assembled in Romania starting in the last quarter of 2025.
The joint venture goes beyond mere production, encompassing engineering, marketing, and after-sales support. This strategic move not only strengthens Romania’s defense industry but also positions the country as a potential hub for exporting Cobra II vehicles to other NATO allies. The inclusion of Romanian-made subsystems, such as the Anubis 3.0 remotely operated weapon system by Pro Optica, further underscores the commitment to technology transfer and local economic growth.
Unmatched Versatility and Robust Design
The Cobra II’s modular design is its trump card, allowing it to adapt to a wide array of mission profiles. Whether it’s serving as a personnel carrier for up to 11 troops, a command-and-control center, or a medical evacuation unit, this vehicle excels in flexibility. Its monocoque steel V-hull offers superior protection against small arms fire, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and mines, ensuring the safety of its crew in the most hostile environments.
Powered by a 6.7-liter turbocharged diesel engine delivering 360 horsepower, the Cobra II boasts a top speed of 110 km/h and a range of 700 km. Advanced features like a central tire inflation system, run-flat tires, and a CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear) filtration system enhance its operational readiness across diverse terrains and climates. The vehicle’s ability to integrate a 25mm cannon, alongside options for 7.62mm and 12.7mm machine guns, makes it a formidable force on the battlefield.
Romania’s Modernization Drive
Romania’s decision to procure the Cobra II aligns with its ambitious military modernization program, driven by the need to address evolving security dynamics in Eastern Europe, particularly following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The Romanian Land Forces aim to replace outdated equipment with cutting-edge platforms capable of multinational operations within NATO frameworks. The Cobra II, already proven in conflicts like the Russo-Georgian War and Turkish operations, brings combat-tested reliability to Romania’s arsenal.
The first batch of 14 Cobra II vehicles arrived in Mediaș, Romania, on June 10, 2025, marking the launch of this transformative program. Local integration of subsystems by Automecanica will begin shortly, with deliveries expected to span five years. This initiative not only bolsters Romania’s defense capabilities but also creates skilled jobs and fosters technological advancement, cementing its role as a key player in European defense.
Global Impact and Otokar’s Rising Star
Otokar’s success with the Cobra II extends far beyond Romania. With over 33,000 military vehicles in service across more than 40 countries, the company has solidified its reputation as a global leader in land systems. The Cobra II’s deployment by nations like Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Tunisia, and Ukraine—where it supported medical evacuations during the 2024 Kursk offensive—highlights its adaptability and reliability. Its use in United Nations peacekeeping missions further cements its international standing.
For Otokar, this contract represents the largest single-item land vehicle export deal in Turkey’s defense history. The company’s strategic focus on partnerships, technology transfer, and local production is paying dividends, enhancing its ties with NATO allies and opening doors to new markets. As geopolitical tensions rise, the Cobra II stands ready to meet the demands of modern warfare, blending Turkish engineering prowess with Romanian industrial strength.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Strength and Collaboration
As the Cobra II rolls into Romania’s military lineup, it symbolizes more than just a vehicle—it’s a bridge between nations, a catalyst for industrial growth, and a shield against emerging threats. With its 25mm cannon and modular design, this armored beast is set to redefine tactical operations, offering Romania and its allies a decisive edge. Otokar’s vision of sustainable partnerships and innovative solutions ensures that the Cobra II will remain a dominant force on the global stage for years to come.
Stay tuned as this Turkish-Romanian alliance transforms the landscape of armored warfare, proving that collaboration and cutting-edge technology can conquer any battlefield!
