The largest state-owned military enterprise in our country - VMZ-Sopot, will receive significant investments that will lead to the creation of about 1,000 new jobs and an increase in ammunition production to 2 million shells by the end of the year. This was announced by the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen during her visit to the plant, as part of her tour of 7 countries.
Analysts are categorical – Europe is entering a decisive stage in its opposition to Russia's aggressive policy.
Security and defense experts outlined the key challenges facing Europe and Bulgaria in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the growing hybrid threats. The conversation with Velizar Shalamanov – former Minister of Defense, and Yordan Bozhilov – Chairman of the Sofia Security Forum, took place against the backdrop of the tour of the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen in Eastern Europe.
Bulgaria is among the key suppliers of ammunition for Ukraine – according to officially confirmed data, about a third of the weapons with which Ukraine defends itself are produced in our country.
“Investments in VMZ-Sopot are recognition“, commented Yordan Bozhilov. According to him, our country has a huge potential for the development of the military industry, but lacks a long-term strategy and political will.
Von der Leyen's visit is seen as a clear signal of support for the countries on the eastern flank of NATO and the EU, with the exception of Hungary and Slovakia, which maintain a different position on the war in Ukraine, Bozhilov also said.
The experts emphasized that Bulgaria is missing opportunities to participate in European defense projects. According to Bozhilov, years ago there was approval for investments in gunpowder factories, but the projects were not implemented due to non-fulfillment of administrative requirements.
„We cannot wait for everything from the outside. We need a clear vision - who will participate, who will train personnel, what our priorities will be. Without a strategy, we simply follow others“, Velizar Shalamanov was categorical.
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Analysts pointed out that the Bulgarian army still relies on Soviet systems. At the same time, the production of modern shells intended for Ukraine and European allies is being prepared.
According to Shalamanov, Bulgaria's priorities should include:
“Europe must have means of deterrence – including a modern army, ammunition production and technological superiority over Russia, Iran and North Korea“, said Bozhilov.
Shalamanov added that Europe must build a common defense capacity in which Bulgaria can play an active role, especially in view of its geographical location and production potential.