The Ministry of Defense activated a large-scale air operation to extinguish forest fires in the Burgas region, involving specialized helicopter crews from Bulgarian and American contingents.
In the morning hours, two Bulgarian helicopters, AS-532 AL Cougar model, were sent from the 24th Air Base in Krumovo to the Slivovo area. The first flight was carried out at 07:45, and the second at 09:38, with the direct aim of controlling the spreading fire.
Simultaneously, an American Black Hawk helicopter, stationed at the Novo Selo training ground, was involved in firefighting activities near Sungurlare. This coordinated intervention became possible thanks to the direct involvement of the Defense Chief Admiral Emil Eftimov and joint efforts with the Air Force.
The operation is being conducted with strict adherence to all necessary fire safety and safety protocols, in close interaction with the General Directorate "Fire Safety and Population Protection".
According to official data, nine fire crews from Burgas, Karnobat, and Tsarevo are currently operating on the ground. Active hotspots have been registered in the lands of the villages Beronovo, Slavyantsi, and Skala. Local authorities in Sungurlare confirm that the fire has not yet been fully extinguished.
The Ministry of Defense declares full readiness to continue air operations, logistical support, and coordination between different teams. In the upcoming hours, two Swedish planes and two bulldozers are expected to be involved in creating firebreaks, which will help manage the critical situation.
Inter-institutional coordination and the rapid response of specialized teams are of exceptional importance for limiting the spread of forest fires in the region.