Bulgaria seeks NATO anti-drone systems, says defence minister
Bulgaria has formally asked NATO to deploy combat aircraft and anti-drone systems to bolster its defences after a series of drone attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea, Defence Minister Dimitar Stoyanov said on Friday.
Bulgaria has formally requested NATO to deploy combat aircraft and anti-drone systems to enhance its defences following a series of drone attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea, according to Defence Minister Dimitar Stoyanov. Two ships caught fire off Romania's Black Sea coast this week after being targeted by drones, and a commercial vessel sank off Bulgaria's Black Sea coast on Tuesday due to a drone attack, leading to Sofia summoning Russia's ambassador.
These attacks have underscored the escalating threat posed by drone warfare, related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, to commercial shipping near NATO's southeastern flank, prompting Bulgaria to seek stronger alliance defences in the region. Stoyanov has written letters and requested the NATO Secretary General and the Supreme Allied Commander to bolster capabilities, including deploying additional forces.
Further discussions on coordinating action and a unified approach to the Black Sea situation are expected as Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev and Romanian President Nicusor Dan meet NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. A NATO official confirmed the issue would be addressed by alliance ambassadors next week, and Bulgaria anticipates joining a NATO anti-drone initiative by the end of October.
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