The security challenges, the modernization projects of the Bulgarian armed forces, and the role of the military education system were the focus of the panel session at the annual conference “AFCEA TechNet Sofia 2025“, organized by AFCEA – Sofia Section.
Col. Dr. Nikolay Nikolov, Director of the “Armaments Policy“ Directorate at the Ministry of Defense, presented an updated overview of the main directions in the modernization of the Bulgarian Army. He emphasized that in a dynamic security environment, it is necessary to consistently and rapidly improve defense capabilities through new technologies, system integrity, and investment in infrastructure and training.
During his speech, Col. Nikolov pointed out that the national plan under the European initiative SAFE – Security Action for Europe has been finalized and is to be submitted for consideration by the Council of Ministers. The plan, valued at 3.26 billion euros for a five-year period, includes a wide range of measures to enhance readiness, interoperability, and the resilience of national defense structures. Its implementation will require coordinated actions between the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Economy and Industry, the Ministry of Innovation and Growth, the Ministry of Finance, as well as with partner institutions and industrial organizations.
Col. Nikolov also emphasized the progress on major modernization projects, including the acquisition of multi-role F-16 fighter jets, the construction of modular patrol ships for the Navy, as well as the projects for new combat vehicles for the Land Forces. He stressed that the modernization of communication and information systems, surveillance systems, and operations management is among the key conditions for effective integration into NATO and EU systems.
Flotilla Admiral Prof. Dr. Kalin Kalinov, head of the Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy, also participated in the panel, who focused on the role of military educational institutions in the development of specialized personnel for the needs of the armed forces and the defense sector. He outlined the development of engineering and technological specialties at the Naval Academy and noted the increasing importance of fields such as cybersecurity, mechatronics, autonomous systems, and marine engineering.
According to Admiral Kalinov, the training of highly qualified personnel is a strategic factor for the successful implementation of modernization programs, as the technological transformation of the army requires officers and specialists capable of working with modern systems, managing complex processes, and participating in joint operations with allied forces.
He also presented the current research activities and projects that the Naval Academy is carrying out in cooperation with Bulgarian and international partners, including the development of new laboratory complexes and participation in European programs for innovation in defense. Kalinov emphasized that the interaction between education, scientific activity, and the practical structures of defense is crucial for the development of sustainable defense potential.
The participants in the panel discussion agreed on the need to synchronize efforts between institutions, industry, and the scientific community in order to achieve accelerated implementation of new technologies and increase the country's defense capabilities in the context of contemporary security challenges.