Bulgaria Signs Deal With France for Joint Acquisition of 3D Radar Systems

Bulgaria and France have signed a framework agreement for the joint acquisition of new three-dimensional (3D) radar systems, the Bulgarian Ministry of Defense announced on June 16.

The agreement was signed by Bulgarian Minister of Defense Atanas Zapryanov and French Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu during a bilateral meeting at the 55th International Aeronautics and Space Exhibition in Paris.

The deal outlines a cooperation framework under which Bulgaria will acquire key components for seven 3D radar systems, alongside associated services including personnel training. An acquisition order under the framework will finalize the procurement.

The joint acquisition model is designed to benefit from European Union-level financing mechanisms. According to Bulgaria’s Ministry of Defense, the project is expected to utilize funding from the Security Measures for Europe (SAFE) initiative, aimed at supporting joint defense projects and strengthening the European defense industrial base. Additional support may also be accessed through the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through Common Procurement Act.

The move follows a decision by Bulgaria’s Cabinet on June 10 to terminate a previous radar procurement process and initiate a new one under Article 9 of the Public Procurement Act. This change allowed for joint public procurement alongside other NATO member states.

Defense Minister Zapryanov had earlier confirmed during a June 11 parliamentary hearing that Bulgaria intended to proceed with a government-to-government agreement with France. He noted that this approach enables co-financing from EU defense programs and aligns with efforts to enhance interoperability within NATO.

Related news: Bulgarian Army to Likely to Procure 3D Radars from France's Thales