The secret drone "Maya": Where did the device found in Bulgaria come from?

10.08.2026 | Defense

Minister of Defense Dimitar Stoyanov revealed details about the discovered "Maya" drone. The device has a wooden structure, a range of up to 600 km, and can carry up to 5 kg of explosives.

Снимка от Unknown authorUnknown author, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5 bg)

The investigation into the mysterious drone discovered on Bulgarian territory continues in full force. Minister of Defense Dimitar Stoyanov explained that it is a "Maya" type decoy, the origin of which is linked to Ukraine.

Technical details and capabilities

"The drone has a wooden structure; the only metal part is the engine. It has the capacity to carry up to 5 kg of explosives and a flight range of up to 600 km," Minister Stoyanov stated.

The remains of the aircraft are currently being examined. Although the GPS module has been found, the drone's control system is severely damaged, which makes it difficult to retrieve information about its exact trajectory.

Cooperation with Romania and Ukraine

Official authorities are working in close cooperation with partners from Romania and Ukraine. One of the leading theories is that the drone entered Bulgaria from Romanian territory. The Minister emphasized that the machine's serial number has already been handed over to the Ukrainian side with a request for information regarding its origin and flight.

Need for air defense modernization

The case highlights the critical need for new systems for detecting and destroying aircraft. Stoyanov noted that the Bulgarian defense industry has been neglected for a long time and is in urgent need of incentives for development.