Former Interior Minister and Deputy Defense Minister Valentin Radev commented on the possibility of the German concern “Rheinmetall“ building two new plants in our country. According to him, such an investment will be of great importance both for the Bulgarian economy and for our arms industry.
“Bulgaria specializes in the production of ammunition and means of close combat. Almost all calibers – from small, medium, to the largest – are produced in our country. However, we also have weak points, such as gunpowder and explosives. That is why the news about a possible plant is so good“, Radev emphasized.
“And now our country is well positioned – we have factories that supply products to conflict zones all over the world. But cooperation with such a giant as “Rheinmetall“ will take us even further. This will put Bulgaria not only on the European, but also on the world arms map“, commented the former minister.
He recalled that the company already has similar joint ventures in Lithuania, Hungary and Romania. “I wonder why they are only coming to us now, given that Bulgaria has a long tradition in ammunition production“, said Radev.
Weak points - gunpowder and explosives
“During the Warsaw Pact, we had a factory in Smyadovo, specializing only in explosives. After the changes, production there stopped. Today, gunpowder is partially made in “Arsenal“, but in small quantities. To produce a shell or cartridge, we usually import gunpowder from abroad“, he explained.
“This is a weakness because we depend on foreign imports. The war in Ukraine showed how important it is to have our own production of gunpowder and explosives. This is where the new plant can give a serious boost“, Radev added.
For 155 mm caliber and NATO standards
According to him, the possible production of 155-millimeter shells is a logical solution.
“Until now, we have specialized in Russian calibers - 152 mm, 130 mm and others. But now it is time to switch to NATO standards. The Bulgarian army does not yet have 155 mm systems, but negotiations with European partners are underway. This is an interoperable weapon and will open new markets for Bulgaria,“ said Radev.
The security issue
Regarding concerns that the construction of such plants could make our country a target in the event of escalation, Radev was categorical: “I do not see this as a risk. Our strategic partner is the United States, and in Europe we have the closest ties with Germany. Bulgaria is one of the safest countries in the Balkans and such an investment does not increase the threats to us“.
Economic effect and challenges with personnel
“From an economic point of view, this is excellent. Taxes and social security will remain in Bulgaria, and the markets are secured – there is currently a huge shortage of ammunition. Ukraine alone needs over 2.4 million shells per year, and “Rheinmetall“ can produce about 750 thousand. The market is guaranteed“, emphasized Radev.
“The deal with “Rheinmetall“ will be beneficial not only for the economy, but also for Bulgaria's positioning as a key player in the defense industry. The question is to find the people who will stand behind the machines“, summarized Valentin.
At the same time, the former minister expressed concern about the staffing of the new facilities: “Our large factories such as VMZ and “Arsenal“ are already suffocating from the lack of qualified people. Technical schools are closed, specialists are being sought all over the country. This is the biggest problem that needs to be solved“.
VMZ and private companies
According to him, the state-owned VMZ plant is not at the level of the private “Arsenal“, but such investments can change that. “12,000 people work at “Arsenal“ - a city within a city. VMZ can develop if the state takes care of the training of personnel and if a sustainable connection between education and industry is created“, commented Radev.