Todor Tagarev

Bulgaria's Defense Minister, Todor Tagarev, has highlighted the country's potential as a significant ammunition producer relative to its population and economic stature. Foreseeing an extended conflict in Ukraine, Tagarev anticipates a growing demand for military stockpiles across EU nations, presenting a lucrative opportunity for Bulgaria's defense industry.

Deputy Secretary General of NATO, Mircea Geoană, is currently on a working visit to Bulgaria, accompanied by representatives from various alliance member countries. The focus of their visit is the multinational NATO battle group stationed at the "Novo Selo" training ground.

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.

Defense Minister Todor Tagarev has reassured the public that there are no issues surrounding the decision on the Stryker vehicles project in Bulgaria. His statement comes in response to concerns raised during the election campaign by GERB leader Boyko Borissov, who questioned the project's approval without the National Assembly's decision.

Bulgaria's political landscape is heating up after the government's decision to greenlight a draft contract for the acquisition of Stryker combat machines from the USA. The move has drawn sharp criticism from political figures, particularly former Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, who expressed concerns over the legality of the decision.