Bulgaria and France will jointly buy 155mm shells for self-propelled howitzers under SAFE. The government approved a framework agreement with France, its press office said. The two defence ministries are the parties to the document. The defence minister has the power to negotiate and sign it.
France leads the project, which aims to build up artillery support and is part of the national SAFE plan. It covers the joint purchase of 155mm CAESAR self-propelled howitzers and ammunition for them. The project is listed as a priority for the Bulgarian army.
Bulgaria and France already signed a framework agreement on the CAESAR howitzers in 2025. The one for ammunition is next.
Before the individual purchase orders, parliament must approve an investment spending project. The orders will set the exact financial terms and deadlines.
Bulgaria has a budget of nearly €3.27bn under SAFE. All projects under the programme are expected to end by 31 December 2030.