Romanian anti-aircraft systems modernized by Rheinmetall fail acceptance tests, delivery delayed
Two Romanian Oerlikon GDF 103 air-defence units upgraded by Rheinmetall did not pass reception tests and will not be delivered by the original April 2026 deadline.
At the start of 2024, Romania dispatched four Oerlikon GDF 103 anti-aircraft batteries, comprising 24 guns, to Rheinmetall for modernization and integration of C-RAM anti-drone functions. The first pair, which were to be handed over in April 2026, did not meet the technical specifications during reception testing, leading Rheinmetall to commit to providing replacements. The Romanian contracting authority has imposed contractual penalties for each day of delay, and Rheinmetall now projects delivery of the first two upgraded systems in September 2026.
The contract also covers two additional systems, with a delivery deadline of December 2026. These upgrades are intended to enhance detection, tracking and interception of small aerial threats, complementing Romania's existing MEROPS, Gepard and other air-defence assets.
Why it matters
The delay hampers Romania's ability to counter increasingly common drone threats in its air defence.
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