Bulgaria's military transport aviation marked its 77th anniversary with a solemn ceremony at the Vrazhdebna airbase, which also celebrated its holiday today. The event, announced on the official channels of the 16th Air Base, brought together military personnel, employees, and guests to honor the long history and contemporary role of the unit.
The base commander, Colonel Lazarin Lazarov, emphasized the enduring significance of their mission, stating: "Our mission remains unchanged - to be a pillar of support for the Bulgarian Army, the society, and our allies." In his address, he expressed confidence in the future, adding that "With joint efforts, we will continue to build upon traditions and will honorably uphold the name of the Bulgarian military aviator." His words resonated as a confirmation of the unit's commitment to national security and international partnerships.
During the official part of the celebration, distinguished service members were awarded for their contributions. With orders from the Commander of the Air Force and the Commander of the 16th Air Base, material prizes and certificates were presented to service members who achieved high results in the performance of their duties. This recognition is a traditional way of paying tribute to the professionalism and dedication of the personnel who perform complex and responsible tasks.
Congratulations were also extended by the Air Force command, who sent their message through social media. It called for the preservation of strength, health, and pride, which are fundamental values for the guardians of aviation traditions. "Be healthy, strong, and proud guardians of traditions," they wrote.
The 16th Air Base 'Vrazhdebna' stands out as the oldest active aviation unit in the structure of the Air Force. Its key role is to maintain high combat readiness and to participate in a wide range of operations, both in peacetime and in conditions of crises and military conflicts. Its main goal is to ensure the actions of the armed forces and other state departments and organizations, contributing to their mobility and operational effectiveness.
Among the most important tasks of the base are:
- Transport of troops and equipment: Increasing the mobility of the armed forces by transporting personnel, combat equipment, and cargo.
- Air dropping: Performing operations for air dropping troops and cargo.
- Support for contingents abroad: Providing logistical support for Bulgarian military missions abroad.
- Humanitarian aid and civil protection: Carrying out transport tasks for the needs of other departments, including the transport of sick and wounded, transport of organs for transplantation, as well as providing assistance to the population during disasters, accidents, and catastrophes.
The activity of the Vrazhdebna airbase is of strategic importance for the national security and defense capabilities of the country, combining military and humanitarian functions in the name of public safety and support for allies.