site.btaNew Defence Innovation Centre to Focus on Drones - Defence Minister

A new defence innovation center (DIC) aims to develop technological capabilities for innovation in dual-use technologies, initially focusing on unmanned aerial vehicles and other security equipment, Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov said in response to a question from MP Yordan Ivanov of Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria. The question was about the development and production of strategic technologies and the response was published on the Parliament’s website.

The dynamics of geopolitical processes in 2025 remain marked by increased tension and a rapidly evolving security environment that exposes Europe’s vulnerabilities and the necessity for the European Union to prioritize strategic autonomy and strengthen its defense capabilities, including in the field of defense technologies and innovations, said the minister. In this context, on the initiative of the Ministry of Innovations and Growth, the Ministry of Economy and Industry, and the Ministry of Defence, the government announced earlier this week the establishment of a DIC.

The center will serve as a testing ground for cutting-edge technologies and prototype development, focusing on drones and advanced defense systems. It will leverage the strategic location, infrastructure, and collaborative ecosystem of the tech park to stimulate technological advancement, economic growth, and Bulgaria’s role in global defense innovations, while also fostering strategic partnership with the Bulgarian Defence Institute, Zapryanov explained.

According to the minister, by providing state-of-the-art facilities for testing and prototyping, the center will accelerate development timelines, enabling rapid iteration and refinement of innovative solutions through access to advanced tools, simulation environments, and expertise.