A New Center for Defense Innovations will stimulate technological progress in Bulgaria

The Council of Ministers adopted a decision to create a Center for Defense Innovations as a unit within "Sofia Tech Park" AD. The Center will serve as a testing point for new technologies and prototype development, with a focus on drones and advanced defense systems. It will use the strategic location, infrastructure, and collaborative ecosystem of the park to stimulate technological progress, economic growth, and Bulgaria's role in defense innovations.

Through a partnership with the "Prof. Tsvetan Lazarov" Defense Institute, the center will coordinate research and development activities with national military priorities, integrate expert experience, and jointly develop solutions that improve Bulgaria's defense capabilities and contribute to NATO and EU security objectives.

The center is expected to promote cooperation between startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, international companies, universities, and the government, positioning Bulgaria as a competitive player in the defense market, while leveraging the resources of "Sofia Tech Park" AD and ensuring rapid development and market-relevant innovations.

To ensure coordination of communication between institutions and the Center for Defense Innovations, a Coordination Council will be established with officials from the Ministry of Innovation and Growth, the Ministry of Defense, and the Ministry of Economy and Industry.

The financing of the Center is expected to be provided through European funds for shared management, as it will be included within the current modification of the programs for which the Ministry of Innovation and Growth is responsible.