General Dynamics European Land Systems has received a contract from the Romanian Armed Forces to supply a fifth batch of additional Piranha III 8×8 wheeled armoured vehicles to the army.

The new vehicle supply contract is part of the Romanian Army’s plan to upgrade its existing wheeled armoured vehicle fleet.

General Dynamics European Land Systems International Business and Services vice-president Dr Thomas Kauffmann said: “The Romanian Army is a very important Piranha user for General Dynamics European Land Systems and we are honoured by this contract award as it reflects the high confidence and satisfaction of the Romanian Army in this vehicle.”

Since 2006, the Piranha vehicles have been used by the Romanian Armed Forces in several missions across the globe, including in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"We are honoured by this contract award as it reflects the high confidence and satisfaction of the Romanian Army in this vehicle."

The Piranha vehicle is said to be one of the most successful 8×8 wheeled armoured vehicles in service worldwide.

In 2008, General Dynamics European Land Systems was contracted to deliver 18 Piranha IIIC 8×8 armoured personnel carrier vehicles for the Brazilian Marine Corps.

Capable of reaching speeds of up to 100km/h on the road, the Piranha IIIC amphibious vehicle has a length of 7.57m, a width of 2.71m, and a GVW of 18.5t.

Equipped with an NBC system, an autonomous power supply and an A/C system, the vehicle provides high protection against ballistic threats and mines.


Image: The Romanian Army’s Piranha III eight-wheeled armoured vehicle. Photo: courtesy of Romanian Army.