site.btaParliament Increases Investment for Acquisition of Multi-Modal Naval Vessels by up to BGN 11 Mln

Parliament Wednesday voted, 141-0 with 20 abstentions, to update a project for investment in acquisition of new multi-role vessels for the Bulgarian Navy. The update envisages an increase of the financial framework by up to BGN 11 million include of VAT to meet NATO's operational strandards. 

The project started in 2020 with the conclusion of a contract between the Defence Ministry and FR. LURSSEN WERFT GMBH&CO.KG, subsequently renamed NVL B.V. & Co. KG, for delivery of two multi-role modular light frigate-type patrol vessels and the provision of integrated logistical support for a period of 3 years after the warranty period. The Navy is to receive the first ship by the end of 2025 and the second by the end of 2026. Due to changes in NATO's standards, the vessels' Link-11 system, that allows high-speed, computer-to-computer exchange of digital tactical information among ships, aircraft, and shore installations, has to be upgraded to Link-22, and the Link-16 Block Upgrade 1 (BU 1) system upgraded to Link-16 Block Upgrade 2 (BU 2).

After Parliament's approval for the revised financial framework, talks will be held with the supplier on the price as the increase may not be more than BGN 11 million leva.