Naval Strike Missile Coastal Defence System sale to Bulgaria approved by United States

Bulgaria has requested to acquire a comprehensive coastal defence package, including tactical Naval Strike Missiles, three Link-16 Multifunctional Information Distribution System – Joint Tactical Radio Systems (MIDS-JTRS), mobile fire control and missile launch vehicles, GPS receivers, operator trainers, and various support equipment and services. The sale also covers spare parts, technical assistance, and integration services, ensuring full operational capability and logistical support.

“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO Ally,” the Department stated, highlighting Bulgaria’s role as a stabilising force in Europe. The deal is expected to enhance Bulgaria’s ability to deter current and future threats while strengthening its participation in NATO operations.

The State Department confirmed that “Bulgaria will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and services into its armed forces.” It also emphasised that the sale “will not alter the basic military balance in the region.”

The principal contractor for the system is Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace AS, based in Kongsberg, Norway. No offset agreement has been proposed at this stage, though such terms may be determined during negotiations between Bulgaria and the contractor.

The sale’s implementation would involve the temporary deployment of three to five U.S. government and contractor representatives to Bulgaria for up to five years. There will be no negative impact on U.S. defence readiness, and the final contract value may vary depending on final requirements and budget constraints.