Bulgaria Focuses on Defense Modernization Amidst Rearmament Push

SOFIA, BULGARIA — Deputy Defence Minister Stanimir Georgiev emphasized the Bulgarian Ministry of Defence’s commitment to the rearmament of its armed forces during a roundtable discussion on Monday. The modernization process involves the acquisition of both traditional weapon platforms and new technology expected to act as a force multiplier.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Ministry of Defence, Georgiev acknowledged the critical need for this development due to the significant lag in rearmament funding over the past three decades. The ministry has outlined a defense investment program that extends to 2032, which is designed in response to the security landscape and budgetary constraints. This program includes plans for unmanned aerial systems and more efficient allocation of research and development funds.

Georgiev pointed out that discussions are underway to promote industrial cooperation with local Bulgarian companies and facilitate technology transfers, potentially to Bulgarian academic and research entities, through major investment project contracts. While acknowledging that new or improved weaponry alone is insufficient for a revolutionary overhaul, he underscored the ministry’s focus on leveraging emerging technologies and defense innovations.