Romania has begun talks with the United States on the joint production of ammunition for Abrams tanks and artillery systems, Defense Romania reports. The Romanian Ministry of Economy signed two letters of request on May 28, which envisage the possibility of local production of 155 mm artillery shells and 120 mm tank ammunition.
This initiative aims to strengthen the country's defense capabilities and ensure interoperability with NATO allies. The project is financed by a $920 million loan provided by the US Department of State in September 2024. The American side emphasizes that such cooperation will contribute to reducing Romania's dependence on ammunition imports and strengthening its strategic autonomy. The signing of letters of request will be the first step, after which negotiations between the countries will continue to establish the exact terms of the partnership.
The US Embassy in Bucharest stressed the importance of this step for the development of Romania's domestic production potential. The project is expected to not only strengthen regional security and enhance NATO's collective preparedness for a possible conflict with Russia, but also create new jobs and promote innovation in the military-industrial sector.
If the project is successfully implemented, Romania could become a key supplier of ammunition to NATO countries on the eastern flank.