Bulgaria to Launch Production of Affordable Kamikaze Drones

In a significant step towards modernizing its defense capabilities, Bulgaria is set to begin the production of kamikaze drones, a cost-effective solution aimed at neutralizing high-value armored targets. 

Priced at approximately BGN 2,000 each, these drones will have the capability to destroy tanks worth between 10-15 million euros, as announced by Kalin Dimitrov, the executive director of a Ministry of Defense company, in an interview with the Bulgarian Army newspaper.

Initially, the assembly of these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) will rely on components sourced from external suppliers. However, there are plans to transition towards full in-house production within the Ministry of Defense’s facilities. 

The warheads for these drones will be domestically produced at the “Terem” plant in Kostenets, ensuring a significant portion of the manufacturing process remains within Bulgaria. 

Dimitrov highlighted ongoing discussions with Bulgarian companies that have experience in drone technology. 

Bulgaria boasts several startups that have already made strides in developing UAVs for commercial applications. The current geopolitical climate and the lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine underscore the critical role of drones on the modern battlefield. 

These UAVs range from basic models capable of deploying grenades to advanced FPV drones equipped with RPG missiles weighing around one kilogram. At the forefront of this technological evolution are “loitering ammunition” or kamikaze drones, specifically designed to target and destroy armored vehicles. 

Larger variants of these drones are capable of attacking buildings and fortifications, as reported by the Information Center of the Ministry of Defense.Kalin Dimitrov has also announced the formation of a scientific unit within the Ministry of Defense dedicated to the development of smart munitions and various drone modifications. 

This initiative is expected to foster innovation and enhance Bulgaria’s military capabilities. In a parallel development, the Bulgarian military is set to acquire SpaceX’s Starlink satellite-internet terminals. 

These terminals will provide continuous, high-speed, and reliable communication, significantly improving the management and coordination of military units. 

The Ministry of Defense emphasized the critical role of Starlink in the Ukrainian conflict, where it enabled Ukrainian forces to effectively direct drone strikes against Russian tanks and positions, thereby bolstering their defense operations.

The strategic acquisition of Starlink terminals and the development of kamikaze drones represent a significant enhancement of Bulgaria’s defense infrastructure. 

The integration of these advanced technologies reflects Bulgaria’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities and ensuring robust national security.

These advancements are set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing global defense landscape, where drones and satellite communications have become pivotal. 

The Bulgarian Ministry of Defense’s proactive approach in adopting and developing such technologies positions the country to better respond to emerging threats and challenges.

As the production of kamikaze drones ramps up and the implementation of Starlink terminals progresses, Bulgaria is poised to emerge as a more formidable and technologically advanced player in regional defense. 

This initiative not only underscores the importance of innovation in military strategy but also highlights Bulgaria’s efforts to leverage cutting-edge technology to safeguard its national interests.