Romania's SAFE defence deals lean heavily to German firms as Saab offers training centre

Under the EU‑backed SAFE programme, Romania has earmarked about €9.5 billion for military equipment. More than three‑quarters of these contracts – roughly €5.6 billion – have been awarded to German companies, chiefly Rheinmetall and its subsidiaries, covering infantry fighting vehicles, naval patrol vessels, air‑defence systems and 35 mm ammunition. The Romanian Ministry of Defence has not answered questions about price analysis or alternative offers, and a deadline of 30 May 2026 cited by the government was not imposed by the European Commission.

Separately, Swedish defence firm Saab is proposing to equip a new, fully‑instrumented combat‑training centre in Transylvania. The offer centres on the laser‑based GAMER system, already used by several NATO states, and includes possibilities for live‑virtual‑constructive integration, urban and CBRN training, and drone‑countermeasure modules. Saab also seeks industrial cooperation with Romanian partners for the centre and other defence projects.