site.btaBulgaria to Have New Minehunter by Year-End

By the end of this year, the Bulgarian Naval Forces will have another minehunter, said Rear Admiral Kiril Mihaylov, Commander of the Bulgarian Naval Forces, in his address to the people attending the official awards ceremony for military personnel and civilians here on Friday. He specified that, under a memorandum with the Netherlands and Belgium, Bulgaria will acquire seven minehunters, the first of which should be delivered by the end of 2026.

As is tradition, the awards are presented on the eve of the anniversary of the Navy's founding, at the Admiralty headquarters. Mihaylov stated that throughout the 147 years since its foundation, the Navy has never ceased to fulfil its mission. He emphasized that the fleet has gone through both periods of prosperity and difficult times, but those in naval uniform have always carried out their duties with honour and dignity.

The Navy Commander noted that the start of 2026 was marked by a military conflict, which largely determined the Navy's tasks. He added that, alongside ensuring the security of Bulgaria's maritime space, tasks relating to the establishment and development of the Navy are also being carried out.

In his address, Mihaylov thanked all Navy personnel for continuing to safeguard and monitor the maritime area, for responding to all reports of potentially suspicious objects in the waters, and for carrying out their duties professionally. He expressed his gratitude to representatives of local and national authorities, as well as non-governmental and public organizations, with whom the Navy maintains excellent relations.

Varna Regional Governor Mario Smarkov offered his congratulations to the personnel of the combat fleet. He emphasized that the Navy is a guarantor of peace and stability. In his words, thanks to the Navy, Bulgaria holds a place of honour amongst its allies.

Varna Deputy Mayor Plamen Kitipov noted that the awards presented on the eve of the Navy's anniversary are not just for the recipients, but for all those who serve the community.

A total of 42 military and civilian personnel of the Navy were honoured for their professionalism and outstanding results with awards marking the Navy's 147th anniversary.