Defense
News about national defense, army activities, military policy, and the Ministry of Defense's announcements.
Strengthening the Protection of Bulgaria's Airspace
Minister Zapryanov announced negotiations to strengthen the protection of Bulgaria's airspace. The topic of security is of particular importance, considering the impact of the conflict in Ukraine on regional security.
Military Exercises: Movement of Personnel and Equipment (October 9-12)
The Ministry of Defense announced the movement of military equipment and personnel from October 9 to 12. This is part of the preparation for the "Balkan 25" exercise of the Land Forces, which enhances combat readiness.
F-16 Block 70 Fighter Jets Arrive in Bulgaria
Two F-16 Block 70 fighter jets are on their way to Bulgaria, the Prime Minister announced. Six more aircraft are expected to be delivered by the end of the year. Pilots have been trained to operate the new fighter jets.
Problem with F-16 Block 70 Aircraft: Fuel Leak in Air Force
Minister Zapryanov reported a technical issue with an F-16 Block 70 aircraft. A fuel leak has been discovered, and urgent measures are being taken. Representatives from "Lockheed Martin" are expected to resolve the issue.
Drones: Bulgaria Needs a European Network
Admiral Eftimov emphasized the need for a European drone countermeasure system. The Bulgarian army is actively developing in this area, but more investments and faster development of anti-drone systems are needed. Effective protection requires a complex approach.
French Military Convoys Through Bulgaria
French military convoys will transit through Bulgaria from September 25 to October 2, 2025, en route to the NATO exercise "Dacian Fall" in Romania. The transit will follow a route from the border checkpoint "Kapitan Petko Voyvoda" to the Ruse border checkpoint, escorted by military police.
ESE 25: International Flight Exercise in Bulgaria
The international flight exercise European Spartan Exercise 2025 (ESE 25) has begun at Bezmer Air Base, with the participation of Bulgaria, Italy, Spain, Greece, and Lithuania. The exercise will last until October 3 and will include various tactical training exercises aimed at improving operational compatibility.
Border Police: Large-Scale Exercise near Sozopol
The Prime Minister, the Minister of Interior, and the Chief Commissioner of the Border Police observed large-scale exercises near Sozopol simulating a crisis situation in a maritime environment. The exercises demonstrated the effective interaction between maritime, air, and coastal forces.
Bulgarian-Romanian Exercise: Air Space Security
The joint Bulgarian-Romanian exercise "Blue Bridge – 2025" for air space security successfully concluded. MiG-29 and F-16 demonstrated seamless interaction while simulating a border crossing by a "violator". The exercise is of key importance for regional security.
Fleet Modernization: Bulgaria Approves GPS Contract
The Bulgarian Parliament ratified a contract worth 2,676,026 leva for the modernization of the military fleet. The contract includes M-code GPS modules for the new patrol ships, ensuring reliable satellite navigation
Air Space Defence: Bulgaria Strengthens Measures
Prime Minister Zhelyazkov announced strengthened measures to protect Bulgaria_q_s airspace, particularly in the northeastern part of the country, in the context of increased regional tension and potential provocations. Bulgaria guarantees the security of civil aviation and is ready for an adequate response.
Bulgaria receives 3.27 billion euro loan under the SAFE program
The Ministry of Defense of Bulgaria is awaiting data on a 3.27 billion euro loan under the SAFE program for defense procurement. Our country will participate with nine projects.
The Bulgarian Army Disposed of Dangerous Ammunition Across the Country
Specialized teams of the Bulgarian Army and cadets disposed of unexploded ordnance discovered in Byala Slatina and Ruse, ensuring the safety of the population.
Appointment: Colonel Hristiyan Hristov to lead the Military Police
Colonel Hristiyan Hristov has been appointed acting director of the Military Police service, replacing the previous director.
NATO and Bulgaria conduct BULGARIA 2025 crisis response exercise
Bulgaria and NATO are conducting the large-scale BULGARIA 2025 emergency management exercise with the participation of over 1200 experts from 40 countries.