The U.S. government has authorized the potential sale of new FGM-148F Javelin anti-tank missiles to equip the Bulgarian Armed Forces, according to a recent notification from the Department of State to Congress for approval through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
Like many Eastern European countries, Bulgaria is pushing for a rearmament and modernization program for its armed forces, with the United States as one of its main suppliers. This is reflected in the acquisition of eight new F-16 Block 70 fighter jets, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, and confirmed negotiations for the purchase of an additional eight units.
Additionally, there is the recent confirmation of the purchase of 183 new 8×8 Stryker Armored Combat Vehicles (ACVs). This package authorized by the United States includes versions for personnel transport, command post, engineering, medical evacuation, and the XM1296 variant, equipped with a Mk.44 Bushmaster II 30mm cannon, totaling $1.5 billion.
According to the official notification from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), Bulgaria requested the purchase of up to 218 FGM-148F Javelin anti-tank missiles, along with 107 light weight command launch units (LWCLU). This agreement, provided by the joint venture of Lockheed Martin and RTX, is valued at $114 million.
“The proposed sale will enhance Bulgaria’s long-term defensive capability to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and it will meet its national defense needs. Bulgaria will have no difficulty integrating this equipment into its armed forces,” stated the State Department in its official release on September 20.
*Photographs used for illustration purposes.
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