Our army is replacing Makarov pistols with 9×19 pistols and new snipers will be purchased. He announced this in an interview with “Bulgarian Army” the commander of the Ground Forces Major General Deyan Deshkov.
“Procedures have been started in the Ministry of Defense on our request to replace the Makarov pistol.” At the moment, the public order for several thousand 9×19 pistols should start. What it will be, the order will say,” commented Major General Deshkov.
The Makarov pistol is a semi-automatic pistol introduced into service in the USSR in 1951, and in Bulgaria in the 1960s. It was the primary personal weapon of members of the armed forces or security forces in many former Warsaw Pact countries, as well as in China.
According to Gen. Deshkov, the order for the replacement of sniper rifles in the Ground Forces, including the entire set with optics, weather stations, etc., has been started.
Major General Deyan Deshkov also explained that hard work is also being done on the modernization of the training grounds and infrastructure. “And something extremely important that is going on right now – the infrastructure and the landfills. We are working hard on them. We have progress,” the commander of the Ground Forces pointed out.
Another expected news in 2025. in the Ground Forces is the delivery of the first Stryker combat vehicles.
“The acquisition of the strikers is the first big step for SV. She’s not the only one. We’re moving a lot of things right now. But Stryker is our biggest project because it is a concept that should totally change the way troops are used, thought and used. Preparations in this regard have already started this year,” said Deshkov.
“In the next 6, 12, 18 months, apart from projects, we will focus mainly on preparation. We are preparing for the large-scale NATO exercise Defender-25, in which the Soviet Union will have a major participation with troops and headquarters. The construction of the multinational division will also start next year, for which we, as an expert level, have a rather serious commitment, even though it is a national responsibility,” added the commander of the Ground Forces.
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**How will the modernization of Bulgaria’s Ground Forces, particularly the introduction of Stryker combat vehicles, influence its contributions to NATO operations and collective defense efforts?**
## World-Today-News Exclusive Interview: Modernizing Bulgaria’s Ground Forces
**Introduction:**
Welcome to World-Today-News. Today, we delve into the exciting developments within Bulgaria’s Ground Forces with two esteemed guests: Major General Deyan Deshkov, Commander of the Ground Forces, and Dr. Ivan Petrov, a leading expert in military modernization and strategy.
**Section 1: Weaponry Upgrades – Embracing the Future**
**Host:** Major General Deshkov, the article mentions a significant shift in weaponry, with the phasing out of Makarov pistols and the introduction of 9×19 pistols, alongside new sniper rifles. Can you elaborate on the rationale behind these changes? What specific advantages do these new weapons offer Bulgarian troops?
**Major General Deshkov:**
* (Explains the limitations of the Makarov pistol and the reasons for its replacement. Highlights the advantages of the 9×19 pistol in terms of accuracy, firepower, and ammunition compatibility.)
* (Elaborates on the need for modern sniper rifles, detailing the benefits of improved optics, range, and overall performance for Bulgarian snipers.)
**Host:** Dr. Petrov, from a strategic perspective, how crucial are these weapon upgrades? What impact will they have on Bulgaria’s overall defense capabilities?
**Dr. Petrov:**
* (Discusses the importance of keeping pace with global military advancements. Emphasises the need for modernization to maintain a credible deterrent and ensure the safety of Bulgarian troops.)
* (Analyzes the potential impact of these upgrades on Bulgaria’s position within NATO and its ability to participate effectively in joint operations.)
**Section 2: Stryker Combat Vehicles – A Paradigm Shift**
**Host:** Major General Deshkov, the article mentions the anticipation surrounding the delivery of Stryker combat vehicles in 2025. These are significant acquisitions. Can you shed light on the strategic thinking behind incorporating Strykers into the Bulgarian Ground Forces?
**Major General Deshkov:**
* (Explains the operational advantages of Strykers, focusing on their mobility, firepower, and versatility.)
* (Details how Strykers will transform Bulgarian tactics and doctrine, enabling more flexible and effective deployments.)
* (Addresses the challenges of integrating new equipment and training personnel effectively.
**Host:** Dr. Petrov, how do you see the introduction of Strykers impacting Bulgaria’s defense strategy? Will it necessitate fundamental changes in training, logistics, and overall military planning?
**Dr. Petrov:**
* (Discusses the implications of adopting a new platform like the Stryker, highlighting the need for comprehensive training programs for crews and support personnel.)
* (Analyzes the logistical challenges associated with maintaining and operating Strykers effectively.
* (Explores the potential impact on Bulgaria’s defense partnerships and interoperability with other NATO allies.)
**Section 3: Preparing for the Future – Training, Exercises, and International Cooperation**
**Host:** Major General Deshkov, you’ve mentioned preparations for the large-scale NATO exercise Defender-25 and the establishment of a multinational division. Can you tell us more about Bulgaria’s role in these significant events? What are the key objectives?
**Major General Deshkov:**
* (Discusses the importance of participating in joint exercises like Defender-25 for interoperability training, sharing best practices, and bolstering NATO’s collective defense.)
* (Explains Bulgaria’s commitment to contributing to the multinational division, highlighting the country’s leadership role and strategic importance within the alliance.)
**Host:** Dr. Petrov, what are the broader implications of Bulgaria’s active participation in these international engagements?
How does it contribute to regional stability and security within Southeastern Europe?
**Dr. Petrov:**
* (Emphasises the value of international cooperation in deterring aggression and maintaining peace. )
* (Discusses the importance of strengthening partnerships with neighbouring countries and regional allies.)
* (Analyzes Bulgaria’s growing role as a contributor to security and stability in the Black Sea region.)
**Conclusion:**
Thank you, Major General Deshkov and Dr. Petrov, for providing such insightful perspectives on the modernization and future of Bulgaria’s Ground Forces. These developments demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a strong and capable defense posture, both independently and within the framework of NATO.
We wish you continued success in these crucial endeavors.
