US State Department approves possible sale of coastal defence missiles to Bulgaria

The US State Department has made a determination approving a possible foreign military sale to the Government of Bulgaria of a "naval strike missile coastal defence system" (NSM CDS) and related equipment for an estimated cost of US$620 million.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying the US Congress of this possible sale on Monday, July 21, the State Department confirmed via a press release.

The Government of Bulgaria has requested to buy an NSM CDS, including three multifunctional information distribution system – joint tactical radio systems and non-MDE items including: tactical "naval strike missiles" (NSM); inert NSM handling; telemetered NSM; operational, inert NSM; mobile fire control centres with associated communications equipment; and mobile missile launch vehicles with associated communications equipment.

"This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO ally that is an important force for political and economic stability in Europe," the State Department said. "The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region."

The principal contractor will be Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace.

The State Department said that, at this time, the US Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale, and that any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.