Romania’s naval contract with Rheinmetall differs from Bulgaria’s, involving higher costs and specific weapon systems for two patrol vessels.
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Romania has contracted Rheinmetall for nearly 840 million euros to build two patrol warships, a similar program Bulgaria undertook six years ago for 500 million euros. While both programs involve building two vessels based on the MMPV 90 design by NVL (part of Rheinmetall), they differ significantly in cost structure and onboard equipment. The Romanian contract covers fully equipped and armed ships built at Mangalia, including addressing shipyard financial issues, whereas the initial Bulgarian contract covered only the hull and minimum systems. In terms of armament, Romania will use NSM missiles for anti-ship defense and RIM-116 RAM launchers for close-range anti-air defense, while Bulgaria uses RBS-15 Mk3 missiles and VL Mica rockets. Furthermore, Romanian ships will feature Thales solutions for radar and combat management systems. The Bulgarian program was completed with minimal major delays, resulting in the delivery of both vessels within six years of signing, whereas Romania anticipates receiving its two ships over four years under a deadline set by the European Commission.
