The President: The government must support companies that manufacture drones and anti-drone systems

The government must support companies that manufacture drones and anti-drone systems. This was stated by President Iliyana Yotova in a comment regarding the drone that intruded into and exploded in Bulgarian airspace on Saturday.

⇒ The drone incident near Kardam

“I am in constant contact with the Council of Ministers. I am coordinating continuously with all the relevant agencies in Bulgaria. I would like to especially commend the officers who were the first to arrive on the scene to ensure the safety of the citizens there”, Yotova said.

“From here on, I am awaiting the agencies’ reports so that we can determine as accurately as possible what kind of drone it was, its origin, what function it was performing, what its role was, whether it strayed off course, and whether it was a deliberate act. I have been assured by the Chief of Defense that he is maintaining constant contact with his Ukrainian and Romanian counterparts. We are deeply committed to ensuring that the investigation is thorough. The whole truth must be made known to the public”, Yotova stated.

She also expressed disappointment at the way the accident is being exploited for political purposes. “The most important thing right now is the safety of Bulgarian citizens. I am counting on all responsible institutions and political parties - which are also represented in Parliament - to work together so that we can guarantee that safety”, she added.

⇒ Bulgaria’s Defense

The head of state recalled that, to date, there have been at least two advisory councils dedicated to the state of the Bulgarian army and national security. “Even the most basic assessment shows that the results have been more than modest. I say this in response to those who ask me about the Advisory Council. It will be convened the moment there is a reason to do so”, Yotova stated categorically.

“We have many gaps regarding the availability of appropriate systems to counter drones. They are becoming increasingly sophisticated. I believe that the Bulgarian state must do everything possible to support Bulgarian firms and companies that manufacture drones and anti-drone systems. This is the future, however difficult it may be to admit. And here, we have a lot of catching up to do”, the president said.

“I have received assurances from the Chief of Defense and the Ministry of Defense that our strategic objectives are currently protected. But as you can understand, Bulgaria lacks sufficient resources in this regard. Major reform and a different way of thinking are needed”, Yotova said.