Bulgaria Modernizes Air Defense with German IRIS-T System

Bulgaria has begun modernizing its air defense capabilities by acquiring the German-made IRIS-T missile system, a move designed to replace its aging Soviet-era equipment and strengthen its role within NATO’s collective air defense framework. The Bulgarian Parliament approved the phased acquisition of one long-range and six medium-range IRIS-T systems in August 2024, marking a major step in the country’s ongoing military modernization program.

The deal, valued at approximately €182 million for the initial unit, includes plans to purchase additional units over time, potentially raising the total investment to €1.4 billion. The contract with Diehl Defence also covers personnel training, construction of new infrastructure, and upgrades to Bulgaria’s radar and command systems to ensure full integration of the IRIS-T’s digital architecture. This approach ensures that the system not only replaces outdated hardware but also complements NATO’s air and missile defense networks.

During the 65th anniversary of Bulgaria’s First Air Defense Missile Base, Chief of Defense Admiral Emil Eftimov highlighted the significance of the acquisition, noting that achieving full operational capabilities and integration into NATO’s air defense system represents a critical milestone for the country’s defense posture. Base commander Colonel Tsvetelin Tsonev added that the IRIS-T would “significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the air defense missile units against new aerial threats” once operational.

The IRIS-T system, produced by Diehl Defence, is capable of intercepting aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles at ranges of up to 40 kilometers. Its infrared-guided missiles employ thrust-vectoring for agile maneuvering, allowing them to effectively engage fast-moving targets. Bulgaria’s adoption of the system aligns it with other NATO members already operating IRIS-T, including Germany, Sweden, and Switzerland, and with the European Sky Shield Initiative aimed at establishing a continent-wide missile defense network.

This acquisition is part of Bulgaria’s broader efforts to modernize its armed forces, which also includes the purchase of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets and upgrades to its national radar infrastructure. By replacing Soviet-era systems like the S-300 and Osa with NATO-standard platforms, Bulgaria is ensuring its forces remain interoperable with allied militaries while enhancing national and regional security.

In addition to procurement, the program includes extensive training for personnel and improvements to command and control facilities, ensuring that Bulgaria can achieve both initial and full operational capabilities. Funding for the program is drawn from the national defense budget, supplemented by compensation for military equipment provided to Ukraine, with further contributions expected in 2025.

Overall, Bulgaria’s integration of the IRIS-T missile system represents a significant advancement in its air defense capabilities. By adopting modern, NATO-compatible platforms, the country not only strengthens its national defense but also reinforces its commitment to collective security within the alliance.