Defense
News about national defense, army activities, military policy, and the Ministry of Defense's announcements.
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.
Bulgaria and Greece: Cooperation in Defense and Security – Key to Regional Stability
Caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gyurov and Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias discussed cooperation in the fields of defence and security, as well as support for missile defence. They emphasized the key role of the two countries for stability in the region.
Greece Activates Patriot System to Protect Bulgaria
Greece has deployed a Patriot air defense system in Northern Greece to protect a large part of Bulgarian territory. Minister Zapryanov explained the measures and their significance, as well as the upcoming visit of the Greek Minister of Defense.
Caretaker Defence Minister Permits Passage of Foreign Troops Through Bulgaria
Atanas Zapryanov informed the National Assembly of orders permitting the passage and presence of foreign and allied armed forces. The orders have also been provided to the defence committee.
Minister Zapryanov: There is no direct military threat to Bulgaria after the strike against Iran
Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov stated that there is no direct military threat to Bulgaria after the strike against Iran. Discussions are underway regarding the evacuation of Bulgarian citizens.
Delays in F-16 Deliveries and Challenges for the Bulgarian Army
Deliveries of the second batch of F-16 fighter jets will be delayed. Defence Minister Atanas Zaparov discussed issues related to funding, modernization, and the need for new infrastructure for the armed forces during a conference of the Chief of Defence.
Annual Conference of the Chief of Defence Emil Eftimov: Analysis of the State of the Armed Forces in 2025
The annual conference of the Chief of Defence, Admiral Emil Eftimov, begins, where an analysis of the state and readiness of the Armed Forces in 2025 will be presented. President Iliana Yotova, Minister of Defence Atanas Zapryanov, representatives of NATO and the EU will participate.
Parliament Approves Purchase of NSM and MIDS JTRS Missile Systems
The National Assembly ratified two contracts for the acquisition of NSM coastal defense missile systems and MIDS JTRS. "Vazrazhdane" (Revival) expressed distrust, while "Velichie" (Greatness) opposed the ratification.
Dronamics Launches Defense Platform for Early Air Warning
Bulgarian company Dronamics, in partnership with Hensoldt, has developed a European Early Air Warning (AEW) system based on the Black Swan drone. The system combines the endurance, payload, and range of the drone with Hensoldt's sensor systems to detect threats.
The transition to weapons according to NATO standards in the Bulgarian army continues
Deliveries of new weapons according to NATO standards for the Bulgarian army are currently underway, said the resigning Minister of Defense Atanas Zapryanov in response to a parliamentary question from the MP from "Vazrazhdane" Dimcho Dimchev. The answer is published on the website of the National Assembly.
Zapryanov: Army Modernization Threatened by Lack of Funds for 2026
Outgoing Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov warned of delays to army modernization projects due to a lack of funds in the extended budget. This affects F-16s, „Stryker“ vehicles and other projects, as well as the situation regarding US claims on Greenland.
Defense Committee Approves Acquisition of Coastal Anti-Ship Missile Systems
The Defense Committee has backed a project to purchase coastal anti-ship missile systems from the US, valued at over $205 million. Delivery is expected in 2030. The project aims to strengthen defense capabilities and ensure operational compatibility with NATO.
419 Unexploded Ordnance Destroyed by the Armed Forces in 2025
In 2025, the Armed Forces destroyed a total of 419 unexploded ordnance. The Land Forces conducted 42 operations, and the Navy responded to signals 36 times.
Military Intelligence Service Celebrates Professional Holiday
The Military Intelligence Service marked its 118th anniversary. The increasing role of the Service in the context of contemporary security challenges was noted. Military and civilian personnel were awarded.