Bulgarian-Romanian Exercise: Air Space Security

A joint Bulgarian-Romanian air space security exercise was successfully conducted, the Ministry of Defence announced.

Crews of Bulgarian MiG-29s from the Third Air Base in Graf Ignatievo and Romanian F-16s participated in the “Blue Bridge – 2025” flight exercise, demonstrating seamless interaction in performing the Air Policing mission.

The exercise, as specified by the ministry, is an annual event focused on coordination and operational cooperation between the Bulgarian and Romanian air forces in border operations for air traffic control and air space security. It is crucial for ensuring security and stability in the region, given the growing geopolitical challenges.

During the exercise, all air space control procedures were successfully implemented.

A key element of the exercise was a simulation of a “intruder aircraft” crossing air borders. The role of the intruder was played by a C-27J Spartan military transport aircraft from the 16th Air Base in Sofia. This scenario triggered the immediate activation of the fighters from the command aviation center, demonstrating the effectiveness of the early warning and response system.

The Bulgarian and Romanian fighter jets performed a number of tasks, including interception, visual identification, escort, handover, reception, and forced guidance of the “intruder” to a designated airport. This shows the high level of readiness and coordination between the two countries in the protection of their national airspace.

The successful completion of all scenarios is evidence of the effective training and cooperation between the pilots and air traffic control teams.

The Minister of Defence Atanas Zapryanov recently emphasized in a television interview that "we have taken actions to strengthen the monitoring of our airspace in the northeastern direction, and by decision of the Chief of Defence, a maneuver of forces and resources is already underway".

This statement shows the increased attention to potential threats and the need for proactive measures to ensure national security. Although specific details have not been specified, the stated increase in monitoring in northeastern Bulgaria deserves attention, and a more detailed study of the context of this decision is necessary.