€3.27 billion EU funding secured for defence modernization
Bulgaria’s Air Force is on full operational alert to defend the nation’s airspace, either independently or as part of NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence System. Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov made the statement in a written response to MP Daniel Lorer of the “Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria” (CC-DB) coalition, published on the National Assembly’s website.
Zapryanov confirmed that following recent airspace violations in Poland and rising Russian provocations, Bulgaria has stepped up monitoring and security in its northeastern region. The Ministry of Defence is also developing new procurement programs for weapons systems and counter-drone technologies to strengthen its operational capabilities.
In response to a separate query by MP Ivaylo Mirchev (CC-DB), the minister revealed that Bulgaria will receive €3.27 billion in low-interest loans under the EU’s SAFE (Security Assistance for Europe) program, following the European Commission’s preliminary approval of a €150 billion funding package. Sofia has until November 30 to submit a detailed investment plan for its defence industry, with a loan agreement expected to be signed by the end of Q1 2026.
The Bulgarian government plans to channel the funds into air defence reinforcement, weapons modernization, and improved operational capacity, aligning with NATO and EU strategic commitments. Zapryanov stressed that the scope of modernization projects will depend on the 2026 defence budget and the final loan size, while reaffirming the ministry’s goal to maintain an accelerated rearmament pace.
