The Bulgarian Ministry of Defense and INSAIT to Collaborate on Implementing Artificial Intelligence for National Security

The Bulgarian Ministry of Defense and INSAIT will collaborate in the fields of innovation, computer science, artificial intelligence, scientific research, cybersecurity, and development activities. This is based on a Memorandum of Understanding signed today between Minister of Defense General Atanas Zapryanov and the Executive Director of the state scientific organization, Eng. Borislav Petrov.

Under the terms of the signed document, the two institutions will partner in scientific research and innovation, as well as implementing artificial intelligence and technology in the security and defense sectors of the country. INSAIT will also support development processes related to the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Bulgaria.

It is planned that both parties will hold regular meetings to work on priority areas and jointly participate in various forums, exhibitions, and other forms of knowledge exchange and best practices. Additionally, the ministry will provide information on opportunities for joint participation in projects, initiatives, and scientific activities under NATO and the EU, while INSAIT will inform about trends in global science developments in various fields related to defense and technology in this area.

The memorandum is valid for five years, with an annual plan-program with specific goals and tasks proposed and approved by both sides each year.

We recall that approximately two months ago, INSAIT announced the launch of a generative artificial intelligence of the latest generation – BgGPT. This made Bulgaria the first country in Europe with its own artificial intelligence of such a level, developed by the scientific organization with state funding. The product of INSAIT has numerous applications, including in the field of defense. The possibility for the state to possess such an application has a direct impact on national security, as all information remains within Bulgaria without being shared with external organizations or institutions.

The memorandum signed today lays the foundation for long-term partnership, which could lead to the development and/or implementation of world-class products in the field of artificial intelligence and computer technologies within the defense system of the country.