site.btaAcquisition of Modern Air, Missile Defence Systems Is Priority, Defence Minister Zapryanov Says

The acquisition of modern air and missile defence systems compatible with NATO standards is a priority for Bulgaria, said Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov during a discussion on military activity in Europe and the Middle East, organized by the Atlantic Association of Reserve Officers at the Rakovski National Defence College in Sofia on Wednesday.

Zapryanov recalled that in 2024, Bulgaria signed a contract to acquire the German short- to medium-range surface-to-air missile system IRIS-T SLM as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative. According to him, this is only the beginning of building a modern air and missile defence (AMD) system that will protect the territory, population, and forces of Bulgaria and its allies within NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence System.

Zapryanov noted that the war in Ukraine has highlighted the vital need for a reliable and effective missile and air defence system. "If we do not possess adequate NATO-compatible AMD capabilities, we remain vulnerable. That is why we must invest decisively today to avoid gaps in our defence capacity tomorrow," the minister stressed.

Zapryanov said that Bulgaria is also set to acquire 3D radars, air defence, and anti-drone systems. He recalled that the country is in the process of bringing into service its first F-16 Block 70 fighter jets, with the first batch expected to arrive by the end of 2025, and the remainder by the end of 2027.

"To effectively implement the modernization of the Armed Forces, we are determined to increase defence spending to at least 2.5–3% of GDP as soon as possible and to sustain it over the long term," the Defence Minister underscored.