Bulgaria Signs Major Deal with Rheinmetall to Strengthen Europe’s Defense Capabilities
As part of Europe’s strategic defense development, Bulgaria and the German defense company Rheinmetall signed a significant agreement on October 28 to establish a modern manufacturing plant within the country.
This project marks a crucial step in modernizing the region’s military capabilities.
The deal involves investments exceeding one billion euros and includes the construction of a factory that will produce propellant, 155-mm artillery shells, and state-of-the-art modular loading systems.
This joint venture with Bulgaria’s VMZ plant will implement cutting-edge technologies to bolster the country’s defense sector.
According to official statements, this initiative opens new horizons for Bulgaria and the wider European region following the experience of the Ukraine conflict.
Rheinmetall will hold 51% of the shares, while VMZ will retain 49%.
Funding for the project is secured through the European SAVE mechanism, aimed at promoting defense investments.
The signing ceremony took place in Sofia, with Rheinmetall CEO Armin Pappersberger and VMZ Director Ivan Getzov signing the documents.
Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov emphasized that this step is vital not only for Bulgaria but for regional security, promising the creation of around 1,000 new jobs and enhancing the nation’s defense capabilities.
The plant is scheduled for completion within 14 months, and experts highlight that it will be among Europe’s most advanced manufacturing facilities.
Additionally, Bulgaria proposed the creation of an international maritime security coordination center, demonstrating its commitment to strengthening both defense and transport security.
On the diplomatic front, Bulgaria has been proactive in seeking support for its foreign policy initiatives, including offering to allow a Russian aircraft carrying Vladimir Putin to pass through its airspace for a potential meeting with U.S.
President Donald Trump in Budapest, a plan later cancelled.
Ultimately, both the U.S.
and Russia left open the possibility of rescheduling the talks.
Overall, Bulgaria’s actions reflect a determined effort to bolster defense cooperation and diplomatic relationships amid ongoing international challenges.