Bulgaria asks NATO to bolster its air defenses, with Defence Minister Dimitar Stoyanov saying Sofia formally requests aircraft, air defense capabilities and counter-drone systems following drone attacks on commercial shipping off the country’s coast in the Black Sea. Multiple outlets report the requests are tied to two deadly attacks occurring within a week.
Outlets describe the scope of Bulgaria’s request somewhat differently, with some emphasizing anti-drone systems and counter-drone measures, while others also mention air patrols and combat aircraft. Kyiv Post adds political context, noting Bulgaria has halted state military aid to Ukraine and is no longer part of the “Coalition of the Willing,” while remaining able to produce certain types of Soviet-standard ammunition.
All accounts frame the move as a response to recent security incidents at sea and a request for NATO support to improve detection and interception of drones targeting shipping and other potential threats.
