Bulgaria’s defense spending is set to continue rising in line with NATO commitments, Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov said during remarks in the southeastern city of Haskovo. He confirmed that the government remains committed to a long-term trajectory of increased military expenditure.
According to Stoyanov, Bulgaria aims to reach a defense spending level of 5% of GDP by 2035. Of this total, 3.5% will be allocated to direct military capabilities, including the purchase of equipment and armaments, while the remaining 1.5% will be directed toward cyber defense, military mobility, and defense-related infrastructure projects.
He noted that defense expenditure last year stood at approximately 2.13% of GDP. The minister emphasized that Bulgaria has already made formal commitments to NATO allies to gradually increase this figure over time.
“A commitment has been made to our NATO partners and allies for continued increases, so the figure will not be lower this year,” Stoyanov said, as quoted by BTA.
The government’s plan reflects a broader effort to modernize Bulgaria’s armed forces and align defense capabilities with alliance requirements. Officials indicate that sustained annual growth in military spending will be necessary to meet both national security needs and NATO planning targets over the coming decade.
