Defense
News about national defense, army activities, military policy, and the Ministry of Defense's announcements.
"Beyond the Horizon 26": Military police from 12 countries train at "Novo Selo"
The international exercise "Beyond the Horizon 26" demonstrates capabilities for crisis response, tactical evacuation, and drone operations with the participation of NATO allies.
Military Academy students completed an internship at the State Agency for Refugees
Students from the "Security Management" master's program have successfully completed an internship at the SAR. See how national security personnel are being trained.
Bulgarian military personnel joined the large-scale exercise Scorpions Legacy 2026
Servicemen from the 2nd Tundzha Brigade are participating in the multinational exercise Scorpions Legacy 2026 in Romania. The goal is to strengthen NATO interoperability.
Iliana Iotova: The Bulgarian Army needs urgent modernization and investment
Vice President Iliana Iotova emphasized the need for military modernization and support for personnel in uniform. She also commented on energy security, Bulgaria's role in the region, and the need for a more confident foreign policy.
Bulgaria to have 12 F-16 pilots by the end of the year: Army modernization continues
Minister of Defense Atanas Zapryanov confirmed that the training of pilots for the new F-16 Block 70s is on track. See the latest information on training hours and the modernization of the Bulgarian Army.
Military personnel awarded for the Day of Bravery: Who was honored
Minister Atanas Zapryanov and Admiral Emil Eftimov awarded military personnel for high professionalism and contributions to the defense of Bulgaria ahead of May 6.
Gen. Nikolay Rusev: One F-16 squadron is woefully insufficient for Bulgaria
Air Force Commander Major General Nikolay Rusev warns that 16 F-16 aircraft are not enough for the country's defense, drawing parallels with neighboring states.
Navy Inspects and Transports Drone Remains Near Kara Dere and Ahtopol
Specialized teams from the naval bases in Varna and Burgas inspected and transported the remains of unmanned aerial vehicles, found near Kara Dere and in the Ahtopol area. The debris poses no danger.
Military Equipment and Personnel to Move on Roads for Exercises
Today and tomorrow, military units will be moving across road and rail infrastructure in Bulgaria for exercises. They will participate in the tactical exercise "Defensive Shield 26" and field training.
Varna Airport to Receive "C-17 Globemaster" Transport Aircraft for Routine Procedures
Varna Airport will host pre-scheduled landings of "C-17 Globemaster" transport aircraft from April 14 to 17 for maintenance and refueling. The flights are coordinated with the relevant authorities and do not affect civilian flights.
Rotation of US Military Personnel at Novo Selo Training Area: Atlantic Resolve
The rotation of US military personnel at the Novo Selo training area has begun as part of Atlantic Resolve. The transport of military convoys will be along the national road network. Atlantic Resolve aims to increase security in Eastern Europe.
Zapryanov: We don't see a military threat in the note from Iran
Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov commented on the note from Iran regarding the American aircraft at Sofia Airport. He stressed that Bulgaria maintains normal relations with Iran and there is no change in the deployment of the aircraft. Zapryanov added that our country is integrated into NATO's air defense system and our security is guaranteed.
Bulgarian Navy to take command of mine countermeasures group in the Black Sea
The Bulgarian Navy will take command of MCM Black Sea in July. The group is currently under Turkish command. The Bulgarian Navy is participating with a minesweeper and officers. Acquisition of new mine countermeasures vessels is planned.
Bulgarian Military Personnel from NATO Mission in Iraq Returned
Seven Bulgarian military personnel, participants in the non-combat NATO mission in Iraq, have returned to Bulgaria. The temporary adjustment of the mission's deployment was undertaken due to the escalation of the conflict in the Persian Gulf.
NATO Enhances Readiness in the Eastern Flank: Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey at Highest Alert
Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov presented an enhanced missile and air defense system in the Eastern Flank. Bulgarian airspace is protected by the "Peatriyat" battery, and planned exercises will be conducted soon. In connection with the SAFE program, Bulgaria expects new aircraft by 2030.