Bulgaria to supply 100 armored vehicles to Ukraine

Bulgaria's Parliament has approved an agreement with the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense. As a result, Ukraine is set to receive 100 armored vehicles in support. We delve into the details of this agreement and highlight the specific vehicles expected to be deployed at the front line.

The idea of this type of support, a departure from the previous deliveries of just ammunition and equipment, took root in Bulgaria a few months back. However, it initially led to significant divisions among local politicians. By July, a majority expressed their willingness to endorse the concept of transferring armored vehicles to Ukraine. There were propositions that, in return, Sofia should get compensation from the United States, as was the case with some other countries.

In due course, the issue either ceased to be significant or was resolved quietly, potentially hinting at plans to purchase Stryker vehicles. The agreement was ratified by the Bulgarian Parliament, ensuring additional military aid for Ukraine. The decision was backed by 152 Bulgarian parliamentarians, opposed by 57, and none abstained.

Under the agreement, Bulgaria will provide Ukraine with 100 armored vehicles equipped with weapons and necessary spare parts for maintenance and repairs, no longer required by the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The vehicles set for transfer originate from the stocks of this institution.

The armored vehicles in question are BTR-60 carriers, manufactured in the '60s and '70s. Despite having mostly been unused, this doesn't imply they are in flawless technical condition. The Bulgarians openly admit it is not economically viable for them to store or modernize these vehicles anymore. However, they can still benefit the Ukrainians.

"The Ukrainians will make sure that this equipment is valuable to them," said a Bulgarian deputy, as quoted by Ukrainian media.

Characterized by a length of roughly 24.6 ft and a weight exceeding 11 tons, the BTR-60 can accommodate up to 16 people, including a two-person crew. The vehicle, with an 8x8 drive, can reach speeds of about 49.7 mph, overcome vertical obstacles up to 1.31 ft, and traverse bodies of water. The manufacturer armed it with 7.62 mm and 14.5 mm caliber machine guns.

The thickness of the steel armor relies on where it's attached and the vehicle's variant (year of production). Although large inclination angles were utilized, they were relatively small, thus increasing the number of joints (welds) and compromising overall strength. The BTR-60 falls short compared to newer vehicles in this category. The Ukrainians will likely use them to transport troops and equipment in relatively safer areas, as operations near the main front line would be too risky.