Defence Minister Reports Chronic Deficit of Functioning Military Aircraft

Valentin Evstatiev

The findings of a check into a September crash of a military trainer airplane, which killed the two pilots on board, are presented at the Defence Ministry. Pictured from left: Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov, Chief of Defence Adm. Emil Eftimov and Deputy Chief of Defence Lt. Gen. Tsanko Stoikov. Sofia, November 12, 2024 (BTA Photo/Vladimir Shokov)

Sofia,

12.11.2024 16:27

(BTA)

The Bulgarian Air Force has suffered a chronic deficit of functioning aircraft over the years within all its platforms: MiG-29 fighters, Su-25 attackers, L-39 trainers and even Spartan transport planes, caretaker Minister of Defence Atanas Zapryanov said on Tuesday. He was speaking at the official announcement of the findings of a check in the Air Force after an L-39ZA Albatros trainer crashed in September, killing the two pilots on board.

He said the same applies to Cougar helicopters and particularly Mi-17 helicopters.

The available number of airplanes and helicopters for operative use are not enough to ensure that pilots can complete the flight hours necessary for their combat training, Zapryanov said.

Much of the report on the check is classified, the minister said. It will be referred to the Air Force Command and the management of air bases.

/MR/