site.btaAir and Ground Forces Upgrading Proposals to Be Submitted to Government

Sofia, April 4 (BTA) - Defence Minister Krassimir Karakachanov on Wednesday decided that two Armed Forces upgrading proposals will be submitted to the Council of Ministers for consideration before they are moved to the National Assembly for approval, the Defence Ministry reported. The proposals concern the acquisition of a new type of fighter jets for the Air Force and equipment for future battalion-sized battlegroups within a mechanized infantry brigade of the Ground Forces. Karakachanov made the decision after the two proposals were discussed by the Council on Defence earlier in the day.

The Air Force project stipulates the acquisition of 16 fighter jets in two stages, 8 jets to each stage. The idea is that the first jets should be supplied within two years after the contract is signed.

The Ground Forces project will involve the acquisition of 150 combat and special vehicles for three battalion-sized battlegroups, as well as related systems and additional equipment, and the training of personnel. It is aimed to build modern capabilities which will meet NATO and EU standards and will be used in operations to protect Bulgaria's national sovereignty. Another objective is to build national industrial capacity for the maintenance of the future equipment.

The Ground Forces project is to be implemented over a period of 12 years. Its price is projected at 1.22 billion leva (exclusive of VAT and other taxes and customs duties). The amount includes 1.02 billion leva for the acquisition of 150 combat and special vehicles, and 200 million leva for related systems and additional equipment.