Q1/42
In naval news the Royal Romanian Navy lays down a light cruiser along with two destroyers this quarter.
The office of the Defence Minister, Marshal Ion Antonescu
"General, what is the status of our request for a modern medium tank?" asked Marshal Antonescu
"Sir, it appears the world wishes to sell tanks to Romania, our nation is well loved it seems. Or there just aren't many customers out there." replied Major General Korne.
"Although we may wish the first, its probably the second. What offers have we received so far?" asked the Marshal.
"Well sir, the Germans offered their Panther tank, it is an excellent tank if we were Germany. Sadly, we are Romania, so while it may have some promise as a breakthrough tank with modifications - its much to fast for one so its engine would need to be detuned to bring the top speed down to 10 km/h for instance. However, we don't really have a requirement for that sort of tank, and it is to heavy for us to use as a medium. Many of our bridges wouldn't take its weight. Czechoslovakia has an excellent heavy light tank in service, and it meets our requirements. I advise we order 10 for trials. Poland has a medium under development which looks promising, I would advise we also contact them for 10 vehicles for trials. The United States has their M4 Sherman, which I also advise we contact them with 10 vehicles for trials. Atlantis is offering its AT-39, which is an improved version of its AT-36 currently in service in Yugoslavia and indirectly Bulgaria. I suggest we order 10 of these for trials. Both the UK and France also offered their medium tanks, the Cromwell and the Char-8 Montbrun, I advise we order 10 each of these vehicles for trials." Korne replied.
"A fairly extensive list, this will be some extensive trials for us to undergo." Antonescu replied.
"Yes, but we shall be getting the best tank that best fits our requirements Sir." Korne said.
"Very well then General, see that it is done."