Stryker

Bulgaria's Acting Minister of Defense, Atanas Zapryanov, emphasized that all military aid provided to Ukraine is fully declared and stems from decisions made by the National Assembly. He made these remarks during an interview on BNT, adding that the assistance involves surplus military equipment from the Bulgarian army.

Bulgaria has approved significant defense acquisitions, including ammunition for Stryker combat vehicles and a German air defense system, following a parliamentary vote. The decision includes the ratification of contracts to enhance the country's military capabilities.

The Budget Committee in Bulgaria's National Assembly has given the green light for the acquisition of ammunition intended for Stryker combat vehicles. The contract, valued at over 64 million dollars, will be paid in installments over several years.

Acting Minister of Defense Atanas Zapryanov assured that the F-16 Block 70 aircraft will undergo full maintenance in Bulgaria, eliminating the need for them to be sent abroad. This decision aims to introduce new technologies into the "Avionams" for aircraft maintenance, thereby saving costs and developing the necessary expertise locally.

Bulgaria is gearing up to enhance its defense capabilities with the imminent arrival of eight cutting-edge F-16 fighter jets from the United States in 2025, as announced by Admiral Emil Eftimov, the Chief of Defense. The decision to expedite the acquisition was crucial, ensuring delivery well before 2030.

Bulgaria's Defense Minister, Todor Tagarev, disclosed to BNT that the initial set of F-16 aircraft is expected to touch down from the United States during the first quarter of 2025.

Having invested BGN 2.2 billion in 2019 for eight fighter jets, Bulgaria committed an additional BGN 2.6 billion in 2022 for an additional eight, payable in installments.

Bulgaria has taken a decisive step in the modernization of its ground forces by making the initial payment for the procurement of Stryker armored vehicles, according to Defense Minister Todor Tagarev. The country's commitment to acquiring American machines prompted the transfer of approximately $263 million, marking the prerequisite for the contract to come into effect.

The Bulgarian government swiftly approved an emergency allocation of $263.3 million towards the first installment for acquiring Stryker armored vehicles, set to be paid by December 15th.

The Bulgarian Parliament ratified an agreement on Friday for the acquisition of Stryker combat vehicles, marking a crucial step in bolstering the nation's defense capabilities. The decision, passed with 148 votes in favor, 53 against, and five abstentions, solidifies the acquisition process for the much-needed combat and service vehicles.

Bulgaria's Parliament has given the go-ahead for the acquisition of 198 combat, reconnaissance, and command vehicles, prominently featuring 183 Stryker combat vehicles. The decision, part of a broader military modernization effort, aims to bolster the country's operational and technical compatibility with NATO member states while reducing reliance on non-NATO and EU countries for armaments.