Some BGN 32 M are planned for the support of the nuclear, chemical and biological defense unit that will be dispatched by Bulgaria in case of war in Iraq. The funding is planned from February to June this year.

The Council of Ministers assigned to the Defense Ministry to form two companies and to select up to 150 troops. Each will get USD 100 per day. The Bulgarian unit will be insured.

The Defense Ministry will allot the funding - BGN 10 M for February, BGN 6 M for March and April each, BGN 5 M for May and BGN 5,154 M for June.

On February 7, Bulgaria's Parliament decided to assist possible US-led military operation in Iraq by dispatching 150-strong unit to one of Iraq's neighboring countries.

The unit is now based in Musachevo near the town of Elin Pelin, some twenty kilometres to the east of Sofia. It is entirely autonomous with the necessary logistical support. Over 600 tones or over 2,000 c.m. technical equipment will be sent with the troops. All equipment is made in Bulgaria.