File:Bulgarian national security and special operations (IA bulgarinationals1094510075).pdf

This study explores the nature of Bulgarian national security and how it is supported by Bulgarian Special Operations Forces (BSOF). It examines the changing global security environment and its implications on Bulgarian security challenges in the 21st century. In particular, the global war on terror and the newly acquired NATO membership have posed new challenges for the Bulgarian Armed Forces, including BSOF. This thesis explores Bulgarian security strategy and NATO requirements for special operations, and analyzes how each of these may be satisfied, in part, by BSOF. The shortfalls between Bulgarian and NATO needs and BSOF's current capabilities suggest that BSOF should be unified under a single joint Special Operations Command directly subordinate to the highest commanding headquarters of the Bulgarian Armed Forces. Moreover, BSOF should be provided with an independent funding program with dedicated air and maritime assets for strategic support, and with advanced SOF-specific equipment. This study suggests the necessity for reorganization and improvement of BSOF in response to the requirements of national security and NATO Special Operations requirements. It posits that a restructuring and enhancement of BSOF is likely to strengthen Bulgarian national security, as well as contributing to an improvement in the global security environment.

Subjects: National security.; Bulgaria; Bulgarian National Security; Special Operations; Bulgarian Special Operations Forces (BSOF); Security Threats; Bulgarian National Security Strategy; Bulgarian Military Strategy; NATO; War on Terror; Terrorism; US Special Operations Forces; Military Capabilities; Command and Control; Unified Command