International Exercise "Breeze 2026" in the Black Sea

Today, the national naval exercise with international participation "Breeze 2026" officially began. The operation will continue until July 19 in the territorial waters of Bulgaria, with the main focus being on increasing interoperability between allied forces.

The "Breeze" exercise is a key element of preparation for crisis response and the liquidation of the consequences of major accidents at sea.

Participants and scale

The 30th anniversary edition of the exercise includes representatives from numerous countries and structures:

  • Naval forces of Bulgaria, the USA, Turkey, Greece, Italy, France, and others.
  • Ships from the Mine Countermeasures Task Group in the Black Sea.
  • The European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA).
  • Over 26 government organizations and non-governmental structures.

Under the leadership of Navy Commander Rear Admiral Kiril Mihaylov, participants will practice complex scenarios involving operations at sea, in the air, and underwater, aiming to ensure safety and security in the Black Sea region.