Iliyana Iotova at "Breeze 2026": Bulgaria must accelerate fleet modernization

Yotova: Black Sea security is a priority

"I am extremely satisfied with what I have seen, and I am more confident about the sovereignty of our maritime border," stated Vice President Iliana Yotova on board the frigate "Drazki".

The head of state observed episodes of the large-scale national naval exercise with international participation "Breeze 2026". According to her, in the context of military operations in the region, it is critically important for Bulgaria to accelerate the modernization of the Naval Forces.

Capabilities practiced in the Burgas water area

The commander of the Navy, Rear Admiral Kiril Mihaylov, confirmed that all set tasks were carried out successfully according to NATO standards. During the exercise, the following were demonstrated:

• Extinguishing a fire on board a ship;
• Overcoming the consequences of incidents involving merchant vessels;
• Repelling attacks from air adversaries and underwater threats.

International cooperation

Representatives from 11 countries are participating in "Breeze 2026", including Bulgaria, the USA, France, Italy, and Turkey. The exercise involves warships, aircraft, unmanned underwater vehicles, and diving groups, demonstrating interoperability between allied forces.