site.btaGraf Ignatievo Air Base Marks 75th Anniversary

The Graf Ignatievo Third Air Base marked on Tuesday the 75th anniversary of its predecessor, the 19th Fighter Aviation Regiment, with a ceremonial formation, a flight programme featuring MiG-29, F-16 and L-39, and a wreath-laying ceremony at the monument to pilots killed in the line of duty.

Caretaker Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov said the air base has become a symbol of continuity between tradition and the modern development of the Bulgarian Air Force. He noted that its personnel carry out one of the most responsible missions of the Air Force, the daily combat duty of safeguarding Bulgaria’s airspace. According to him, the acquisition of F-16 Block 70 marks the beginning of the modernization of Bulgaria’s combat aviation and the development of new capabilities ensuring full interoperability with NATO and EU allies.

Air Force Commander Nikolay Rusev said the anniversary marks not only the establishment of the unit but also 75 years since the first combat duty to ensure Bulgaria’s air sovereignty. He stressed that current global developments show peace is increasingly fragile, while war is becoming more unpredictable. Regarding the F-16, he said efforts are under way to ensure their long-term maintenance and support.

The acting Commander of the Air Base, Metodi Orlov, said air policing duty requires constant readiness under any conditions, supported by the dedicated work of dozens of personnel and the trust of the public.

Visitors were able to view static displays of aviation equipment and aircraft, including MiG-29 and F-16, and take part in virtual flights using simulators.

Former commanders, servicemen and media representatives were honoured with awards by order of the Defence Minister, the Chief of Defence and the Air Force Commander.

The ceremony concluded with wreaths and flowers laid at the monument to fallen pilots.