US to deploy Abrams tanks in Romania, enhancing rotational forces

The Chief of the Defence Staff of Romania, General Gheorghiță Vlad, announced that the United States has agreed “to improve the quality and lethality of the forces deployed in Romania,” including the deployment of a detachment of American soldiers equipped with Abrams main battle tanks.

“The United States has agreed to maintain the same level of force contribution and, moreover, to improve the quality and lethality of the forces deployed in Romania. The best example is the one also mentioned by SACEUR during his visit to Romania: in the coming period, a detachment of US soldiers equipped with Abrams tanks will be deployed in Romania,” General Vlad said, Romania Journal reports.

The general clarified that the deployment is part of the routine US rotational presence and does not constitute an increase in troop numbers. In fact, the US announced in October that it would reduce its overall troop presence in Romania by withdrawing a battalion from the rotational brigade assigned to NATO’s southeastern flank, while maintaining around 1,000 troops.

The deployment of Abrams tanks—considered among the most advanced main battle tanks in the world—is particularly notable. Romania is currently in the process of acquiring 54 Abrams tanks to modernize its armored capabilities.

General Vlad also confirmed that he had discussed the matter with NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) during his recent visit to Romania, emphasizing that NATO remains committed to contributing forces to the country’s defence in line with regional plans.

In addition to US troops, Romania hosts numerous European forces, with the total number of American and European soldiers stationed in the country remaining close to 3,500 following the recent US troop adjustments.

By Vafa Guliyeva