A new partnership between Romania and the United States will establish production capabilities within Romania for 155mm NATO standard artillery projectiles and 120mm tank ammunition. This initiative marks a significant advancement in the strategic relationship between the two nations.

The US Embassy has confirmed this collaboration,highlighting the signing of Letters of Request (LOR) for tender and Letters of Acceptance (LOA) by Romania’s Ministry of Economy. These letters aim to identify avenues for strengthening defense production capabilities in both countries.

Iulia Joja, a European and transatlantic security expert and a teacher at Georgetown University, emphasized the importance of this development. She noted that this agreement underscores Romania’s long-standing priority of establishing domestic production of American weaponry, dating back to 2012-2014.

“From the decision that appeared in the press release of the US Embassy, ​​it turns out and I knew that offset, technology transfer and production capacity in Romania was and is a priority of Romania. As 2012-2014, the production in Romania of American armament has already been a major priority.And now we succeed.”

Joja also addressed concerns about the presence of American troops in Romania, clarifying that the technology transfer and ammunition production capabilities are not directly linked to troop numbers.

“Yes, we can sleep a little quieter, but we must understand that the transfer of technology and the ability to produce American ammunition on the territory of Romania is not related to the number of troops.”

She added, “and unluckily, this fear about the withdrawal of American troops from Romania will not disappear. Because, regardless of how the bilateral relations between Romania and the United States go, and we have no reason to worry that they will not go well, the United States reduces their military presence and will reduce it at European level.”

Joja believes that while the partnership strengthens bilateral relations, broader US military strategy will dictate troop deployments. “It is a good sign in the context of the bilateral relationship. We do not have to worry that the United States is upset about Romania and that is why they can punish Romania,reduce from troops. The decision will be made according to the situation on the ground and in the functions of the calculations at home.”

Regarding Romania’s defense procurement priorities,Joja suggested focusing on drones and submarines. She highlighted the vulnerability of ships, as demonstrated in the Ukrainian conflict, and emphasized the defensive and deterrent capabilities of submarines.

“If I look at the purchasing list of the Ministry of Defense, we ordered, and it takes a long time, heavy armament, which we were missing and we needed urgently.But to exhaust all our needs, the list woudl be much longer… I would prioritize the purchase of cheap drones… And after that, I would put on the shopping list, and I didn’t see one or two submarines.”

While acknowledging the 3.5% increase in Romania’s defense budget as a positive step, Joja noted that the US expects a 5% increase, aligning with commitments made by Poland and the Baltic countries.

Understanding Defense Partnerships and Military Production