Europe Asia News

According to a statement by Bulgaria's Council of Ministers, the meeting chaired by Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev discussed the condition and security of strategic facilities in the country, the protection of critical infrastructure, and the security of facilities for the production and storage of explosives and ammunition.

A report on the condition of strategic facilities under the Ministry of Defense was presented at the meeting. The need for additional equipment for video surveillance systems and counter-drone capabilities was assessed. It was stated that shortcomings had been identified in the provision of counter-drone systems at critical infrastructure facilities and that these facilities would be prioritized and gradually equipped with the necessary equipment.

Bulgarian Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev said measures would be taken in two categories regarding ammunition and explosives storage and production facilities. Accordingly, joint teams from the Ministry of Interior and the State Agency for National Security (SANS) will conduct detailed inspections at the facilities and present recommendations aimed at increasing the level of security.

Under the second group of measures, plans include strengthening security provided by the Ministry of Interior, increasing police patrols in areas where the facilities are located and introducing additional security measures. The measures are expected to remain in effect until the end of 2026, after which an analysis will be conducted to determine whether they should be continued or modified.

Demerdzhiev said it was concerning that problems had been identified in explosives and ammunition storage processes and in the effectiveness of security measures, adding that the state had taken action to comprehensively assess the facilities and increase police security.

Demerdzhiev said investigations into incidents at explosives and ammunition storage and production facilities were continuing. He said details of the investigations would not be shared, but possibilities of external interference were being examined carefully.

It was reported that the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Defense would work in coordination on the procurement and deployment of counter-drone systems. Demerdzhiev said the Border Police was responsible for border security, including airspace up to an altitude of 3,000 meters, and stated that procurement efforts were underway to deploy these systems first along the maritime borders and the Bulgaria-Türkiye border.

It was stated that planning for the systems had been completed and deliveries were being carried out in stages. The Ministry of Interior was also reported to be evaluating funding opportunities through the European Union and Frontex.