F-16s, Strykers and Radar Systems Hit by Delays as Bulgaria Pushes Defense Overhaul

Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov has accused previous administrations of allowing major delays in the modernization of the Bulgarian Armed Forces, saying the Ministry of Defense inherited stalled projects, missed opportunities for domestic industry, and serious problems related to military infrastructure and contract management. Presenting the results of the first month of work by the ministry’s new leadership, Stoyanov said that after reviewing developments between 2023 and 2026, he was left with the impression that the institution had been operating in a state of inertia that slowed modernization efforts and led to the loss of capabilities in several key areas. The minister pointed to a number of projects initiated during the caretaker government in 2022-2023, including the acquisition of 3D surveillance radars, infantry fighting vehicles, 155-mm self-propelled howitzers, F-16 fighter jets, and armament for Bulgaria’s new multipurpose patrol ships....