Bulgaria's Parliament approved an increase in the cost of the country's contract for Stryker armored combat vehicles, backing amendments to the investment project for equipping battalion battle groups within a mechanized brigade. The decision passed with 156 votes in favor, while the 11 MPs from the pro-Russian Revival party voted against.
The revised agreement raises the value of the contract by approximately USD37 million following a request from the US side. As a result, the overall cost of the project will reach about USD1.414 billion, up from the USD1.376 billion agreed when the contract was signed in 2023.
According to the government, the additional funding reflects higher global inflation, increased transportation and administrative expenses, rising prices for raw materials, electronic components and optics used in the production of the vehicles, as well as updated training requirements for personnel. The package also includes more than USD20 million allocated for estimated and unforeseen costs.
Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov told lawmakers the project remains a key element of Bulgaria's military modernization.
“The implementation of this project ensures operational interoperability with the armies of NATO member states, strengthens Bulgaria's defense capabilities in both national and allied operations, and supports participation in NATO's collective defense missions,” he said.
