site.bta Defence Council to Discuss Motion for Investment in New Military Aircraft Type

Defence Council to Discuss Motion for Investment in New Military Aircraft Type

Sofia, February 29 (BTA) - The Defence Council is to consider and adopt a motion for an investment in the acquisition of a new type of military aircraft for the Air Force on Tuesday, Defence Minister Nikolay Nenchev said Monday. He was speaking at a news conference on topical issues for the Defence Ministry which was also attended by the leaderships of the ministry and the army.

A draft motion for investment is being tabled by the Project Management Board before the Defence Council. The board mainly includes colleagues from the Air Force and is chaired by General Radev, the Chief of Defence, Lt. Gen. Konstantin Popov said. After the project passes through the Council of Ministers, then it will be the turn of the procedure on the acquisition of the aircraft itself, Gen. Popov said. After an answer is received to inquiries to possible contractors, then there may be a commission on the choice with the participation of the flight personnel. The draft investment motion does not specify what the type of aircraft should be, Popov explained.

Taking a question whether he thinks that a contract for the acquisition of a new type of multi-functional aircraft will be signed in 2016, Nenchev said he is sure of that because the budget framework includes the relevant costs, such as 80 million leva for the first payment for a multi-functional aircraft. Just as much funds have been set aside for a multi-functional patrol vessel.

Taking another question, the Defence Minister pointed out that the idea for a possible reinstatement of obligatory military service is being discussed by MPs. So far, his ministry has not discussed the subject, but he will appoint a commission to prepare a relevant opinion.