The Centre of Excellence in Defence Technologies and Dual-Use Solutions (CEDAR) in Kazanlak will feature eight high-tech laboratories to develop and test technologies for both military and civilian applications. This was announced during a presentation of the project here on Thursday.
Funded through the EU’s Just Transition Fund at a cost of EUR 43.47 million, CEDAR will bring together scientists, innovative companies and the defence industry, with its research to focus on advanced materials, additive manufacturing, digital twins, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, propulsion and protection technologies, and counter-drone systems.
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2028, with laboratory equipment installed in 2029. The centre aims to shorten product development timelines, support certification and testing, and strengthen Bulgaria’s defence capabilities and technological independence. Project representatives said the facility could also serve defence companies across the Balkans, including NATO member states, and lay the foundations for a future technology park. Around 60 researchers will be needed to support its programmes.
Kazanlak Mayor Galina Stoyanova stated that the decision to establish CEDAR in the city was based on objective criteria and noted that Kazanlak is the best location from a logistical standpoint, adding that the local business sector is high-tech. The city is home to Arsenal, the largest defense enterprise, which possesses the greatest scientific and engineering potential, she said. She further pointed out that Kazanlak has long been a hub for mechanical engineering, hosting research institutes in the field and offering a strong pool of skilled personnel.
The project is led by CEDAR-Kazanlak in partnership with the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia Tech Park, Sofia Technical University and the National Military University.
Bulgaria to Build Eight-Lab Defence Technology Centre in Kazanlak THE NEWS FROM BULGARIA – NEWS AGENCY 2009-2025 2026-10-15 13:03:59
Latest news World news Country news Most important news latest news most important latest of the day Economic news Bulgaria, Bulgarian economy news, Bulgaria economic news, latest economic news, breaking economic news, Bulgarian business news, Bulgaria business news. Bulgarian financial news, Bulgaria finance news, Bulgarian markets, Bulgaria stock market, Bulgarian banking sector, Bulgarian investments, foreign investment Bulgaria. Bulgaria inflation, Bulgaria GDP, Bulgarian exports, Bulgarian imports, Bulgaria trade, Bulgarian industry, Bulgarian companies, Bulgarian entrepreneurs. Bulgarian business economy, economic growth Bulgaria, Bulgaria economic policy, Bulgarian fiscal policy, Bulgarian monetary policy, Bulgaria budget, Bulgarian public finances. Bulgaria wages, Bulgarian employment, Bulgaria unemployment, Bulgarian labor market, Bulgaria salaries, Bulgarian taxes, Bulgaria taxation, Bulgaria energy market. Bulgaria real estate market, Bulgarian property market, Bulgaria construction sector, Bulgarian tourism economy, Bulgaria agriculture economy, Bulgarian manufacturing, Bulgaria technology sector. Bulgarian startups, Bulgaria investment news, Bulgaria corporate news, Bulgarian financial markets, Bulgaria interest rates, Bulgarian banks, Bulgaria euro adoption, Bulgaria economic reforms.
BULGARIA NEWS – NEWS AGENCY 2009–2026 2026-10-15 13:03:59