In response to ongoing tensions in Ukraine, the French Army has announced its intention to station up to 50 Leclerc tanks in Romania in the coming year.
Why Romania?
This deployment comes as a result of the unfolding conflict in Ukraine and is consistent with established NATO agreements. The chosen location for this operation is Cincu, Romania, where France currently spearheads a multinational battalion. With a robust group close to 700 soldiers in strength, France's contribution is the most significant.
Existing Capabilities
Future Expansion Plans
Given potential regional escalations, plans are in place to rapidly and substantially enhance the battalion's capabilities. The proposal includes the arrangement of an exercise geared towards expanding the battalion to a brigade level. This would necessitate a temporary surge in NATO soldiers by 3,000, as well as requiring additional equipment.
Training in Romania
Once the increase in manpower and equipment is achieved, the brigade will undergo several weeks of training in Romania. Such training is currently restricted to military sites due to Romanian legislation prohibiting armed forces from conducting exercises in “free terrain”.
Further Reinforcements
The extension of the battalion will also usher in an additional consignment of CAESAr and 37 more Leclerc tanks to Cincu. This is in addition to the 13 already stationed in the area. This marks a noteworthy move as the French Army's most considerable deployment of Leclerc tanks outside of France since May 2002.
Leclerc Tanks
Currently, there are 200 Leclerc tanks in service that are scheduled for a gradual upgrade to the XLR standard.