16.10.2026 16:56
Bulgaria requested missile systems, air patrols, and counter-UAV defense support from NATO after the intensification of UAV attacks on commercial ships. The Sofia administration also drew attention to the importance of forming a joint strategy with Türkiye and Romania.
Bulgarian Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov announced that they had requested support from NATO in order to strengthen the country's defense capacity following the intensification of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacks on commercial ships in the Black Sea.
In a statement to the press, Stoyanov stated that they had applied to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) Alexus Grynkewich.
Drawing attention to the fact that the intensity of attacks in the Black Sea is increasing with each passing day, Stoyanov said, "The attacks on Romania's territorial waters show that the Bulgarian army needs to be modernized and its defense capacity increased. Bulgaria has requested support from NATO for aircraft, missile systems, counter-UAV defense systems, and air patrols."
Stating that the scope of the requested support has not yet become clear, Stoyanov said that Romania and the Baltic countries also have similar needs and that the attention of European partners is turning to the Black Sea.
CALLED ON TÜRKİYE AND ROMANIA
Expressing that he hoped rapid steps would be taken to strengthen defense capacity, Stoyanov emphasized the importance of forming a joint action strategy among Bulgaria, Türkiye, and Romania.
Explaining that Bulgaria is using its existing capabilities for observation and intervention, Stoyanov said that the country has two reconnaissance systems to monitor its own territorial waters, and that the third system is expected to be deployed by the end of the year.
TOWING OF THE SHIP NAMED "CHELSEA3" EXPECTED
Stoyanov reported that the ship named "Chelsea 3", which was attacked in the Black Sea, anchored about 10 kilometers east of the village of Lozenets in Burgas.
Stating that the operation launched yesterday to tow the ship was halted due to adverse weather conditions, Stoyanov said that a new operation is expected to be organized after the weather conditions improve.