Strategic Shift: Dobroslavtsi Air Base Becomes a Hub for the Space Industry
August 16, 2026, marked a landmark day for Bulgaria's defense and space sectors. The Bulgarian government officially approved a memorandum of cooperation with the leading local satellite manufacturer, EnduroSat. According to the approved plan, a major center for space and defense innovations will be established on the territory of the former Dobroslavtsi air base, located in close proximity to Sofia. This decision, reported by Iksbt.com, is intended to serve as the foundation for the large-scale expansion of national space infrastructure and a stimulus for economic development in the high-tech sector.
The new complex, to be built at the base, is designed to perform a wide range of tasks: from the final assembly of satellites to their comprehensive testing and the training of engineering personnel. The initiative is viewed as a strategic step that will allow Bulgaria to take a worthy place in the European space race and reduce dependence on foreign contractors in the implementation of national projects.
Leaders' Vision: Transforming the Base into a European Technology Hub
Raycho Raychev, founder and CEO of EnduroSat, outlined the ambitious goals of the project. According to him, the company plans to transform the Dobroslavtsi air base into one of the leading centers for space and defense developments not only in the Balkans but across Europe. "This will take Bulgaria's potential in this field to a completely new level," emphasized Raychev, noting the importance of creating a unified space for innovation.
The creation of such a center will allow for the consolidation of the disparate efforts of private players and the state, creating a synergistic effect. The integration of production capacities with scientific and educational institutions will become a key factor for success in a competitive international environment.
Industry Ecosystem: From Sfera Technologies to Sofia University
The EnduroSat initiative has found a wide response in the local technology community. Another key company in the sector, Sfera Technologies, has already shown significant interest in the project. Sfera Technologies is developing an integrated system that will accelerate the delivery of Earth remote sensing data, which is critical for defense and civilian needs.
Zdravko Dimitrov, head of Sfera Technologies, confirmed that Bulgaria's national industry already possesses the necessary competencies to operate in low, medium, and geostationary orbits, as well as for the full cycle of satellite production and testing. According to experts, Bulgaria's strength lies in its powerful educational base, specifically the aerospace engineering program at Sofia University, which supplies the labor market with highly qualified specialists.
Forming a Complete Ecosystem
The joint efforts of the state space data center and private companies will help form a complete space ecosystem in the country — from production to ground systems. Experts predict that the implementation of the project at the Dobroslavtsi base will become a catalyst for attracting foreign investment and creating new jobs in the high-tech sector.
