Bulgaria’s interest in the CAESAR howitzers aligns with its participation in two projects under the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through Common Procurement Act (EDIRPA). This initiative supports the joint acquisition of European weapon systems among EU member states.
One of these projects, known as JAMIE, focuses on the procurement of IRIS-T air defence systems. In November 2024, Bulgaria placed an order for the IRIS-T SLM system, which is set to replace the ageing Soviet-era S-300 currently in service.
The second EDIRPA initiative involving Bulgaria concerns the acquisition of CAESAR self-propelled howitzers. These modern systems are intended to replace the 122mm 2S1 Gvozdika howitzers, of which the Bulgarian Armed Forces still operate 48 units.
At this stage, specific details regarding the potential purchase have not been disclosed. However, the transaction appears feasible, as Bulgaria plans to increase its defence spending to 2.5% of GDP within the next three years.
The planned budget increase will enable Bulgaria to accelerate the modernisation of its armed forces. This will facilitate the replacement of outdated Soviet-era equipment, ensuring greater operational efficiency and alignment with NATO standards.
