Romania has sealed a deal with the Eurospike consortium to acquire Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles. The agreement, finalized on February 18, 2024, marks a pivotal moment for Romania as it reinforces its military posture and asserts its presence on the global stage. Under the terms of the four-year agreement, Romania’s defense entity, Romtehnica, operating under the Ministry of National Defense, has inked a framework deal worth over 426 million lei, inclusive of VAT, with Eurospike GmbH. This consortium, comprising industry giants Diehl Defence and Rheinmetall Defence Electronics from Germany, along with an Israeli subsidiary, signifies a robust international collaboration in defense technology.
At the heart of this agreement are the Spike LR2 missiles, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, renowned for their cutting-edge capabilities. Having demonstrated their effectiveness in various conflicts, including ongoing operations against Hamas in Gaza, these fifth-generation guided missiles are poised to significantly enhance Romania’s defense readiness. The acquisition of Spike LR2 missiles underscores Romania’s proactive approach to modernizing its military arsenal and preparing for contemporary security challenges. This strategic partnership not only strengthens Romania’s defense capabilities but also signifies its commitment to integrating advanced weapon systems for national security.
The Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) represents a paradigm shift in military technology, boasting a “fire and forget” capability for high performance and lethality. With a range of up to 5.5km from ground launchers and 10km from helicopters, coupled with advanced electro-optical seekers powered by AI, these missiles ensure precise targeting even under adverse conditions. Furthermore, the Spike LR2’s versatility extends to its ability to carry tandem high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warheads and multipurpose blast warheads, making it effective against a wide range of targets, including armored vehicles, marine vessels, and fortified positions.
With a global presence spanning 33 countries and over 33,000 operational units, the Spike LR2 missile system stands as a testament to its strategic significance in modern warfare, offering unparalleled capabilities in anti-tank warfare and precision-guided munitions. Romania’s acquisition of Spike LR2 missiles signifies a forward-thinking approach to national defense, positioning the country as a formidable player in the global defense arena. As Romania continues to prioritize defense modernization, partnerships with leading defense contractors like Eurospike GmbH pave the way for a more secure and resilient future.
