IAG begins producing first armored vehicles at its Burgas plant (photos)

International Armored Group (IAG) has officially started production of armored vehicles at its first plant in Bulgaria, located in Burgas. The new facility, which opened in October 2024, is already producing Guardian Xtreme – tactical combat and reconnaissance vehicles that meet the highest NATO standards.

The Bulgarian personnel work with modern equipment and exchange experiences with engineers from IAG's international plants. According to Anton Stefov, owner of IAG, the main goal of the investment is to strengthen the Bulgarian defense industry's capacity by implementing new technologies and innovations compatible with EU and NATO standards.

Modern security, made in Bulgaria

Over 65% of the components of IAG's high-tech armored vehicles and drones can be manufactured in Bulgaria. This ensures lower production costs as the company works closely with Bulgarian enterprises that are involved in the production of key components for the machines.

IAG partners with the Tsvetan Lazarov Defense Institute, the G. S. Rakovski Military Academy, and the Vasil Levski National University for joint scientific research and training. The teams are working on the creation of self-propelled mortars (120, 82, 81 mm), multiple launch rocket systems (107 mm), armored vehicles with anti-tank guided systems, and reconnaissance vehicles.

Bulgaria – a future European center for armored vehicles

According to Stefov, Bulgaria has the potential to become a leading center for defense equipment production in Europe. He emphasized that investment in the military industry is not an empty expense, but a long-term strategy for economic and national strengthening.

A strong army also helps our industry, which in turn will contribute to the country's defense of its economic interests, in addition to its defense interests internationally," commented Stefov.

According to him, the future of the defense sector lies in robotics and artificial intelligence, for which he will also rely heavily on Bulgarian partners.

IAG also supports the work on the European Defence Industrial Programme (EDIP), which aims to accelerate the development of the industry within the EU. In the future, the company will also invest in robotic systems and artificial intelligence, relying on Bulgarian partners for their development.

IAG's first plant in Bulgaria was launched last fall after an initial investment of over 10 million euros. It employs about 50 Bulgarian specialists, and in the course of the operations, it is expected to increase their number to at least 300.

IAG's newest production facility in Burgas produces various types of armored vehicles for global markets, as well as drones for rescue, reconnaissance and emergency teams.

Translated by Tzvetozar Vincent Iolov