Yanev rips Rheinmetall billion gamble
Stefan Yanev questioned the financial structure of Bulgaria’s ammunition manufacturing agreement with German defense contractor Rheinmetall. The former defense minister expressed concern about whether the Sopot facility represents a genuine investment or requires substantial borrowing by Bulgarian entities.
Yanev raised environmental concerns about the technology used in gunpowder production on Wednesday during a Focus radio interview. He noted that Vazov Machine-Building Plants previously declined a similar foreign-funded proposal requiring no Bulgarian capital investment over a decade ago.
The retired general emphasized that loan terms remain unclear regarding who assumes financial responsibility among the plant, state authorities, or other parties. He stressed that any borrowing arrangement must demonstrate clear pathways toward returns and repayment timelines.
The agreement covers the production of 155 millimeter NATO ammunition and modular charging systems. Initial reports suggested an investment of 1 billion euros, though later information indicated that Bulgaria might finance half that amount through loans.
