site.btaDefence Minister Warns Parliament of Military Exodus Without Pay Hike Amid Nearby Conflicts, Staffing Crisis

Speaking to the media here on Tuesday, caretaker Minister of Defence Atanas Zapryanov urged the 51st National Assembly to implement its decision to increase the salaries of military personnel, focusing on the need for maintaining an army, air force, and land forces. He warned the legislature that otherwise the military will see an exodus of service persons amid the nearby conflicts and the staffing crisis.

Zapryanov made this statement following the presentation of the investigation results into the Air Force after the crash of an L-39ZA Albatros training aircraft in September 2024, which resulted in the deaths of pilots Petko Dimitrov and Ventsislav Dunkin from the 12th Dolna Mitropoliya Air Base, North Bulgaria.

Zapryanov noted earlier this year that the lowest basic monthly salary for military personnel from January 1, 2025, would range from BGN 2,300 to BGN 2,370.

He pointed out a major issue with staff leaving for other sectors because of salary differences. Some helicopter pilots are transferring to the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Transport and Communications, where the pay is significantly better. Zapryanov noted that if salaries don't increase, the situation won't improve.

"There is a war happening hundreds of kilometres from our border [the war in Ukraine], and a conflict in the Middle East. In this context, I can't imagine anyone deciding that the military is not a priority. I am confident that the Bulgarian parliament will uphold its commitment," Zapryanov added.

He also mentioned a growing interest in joining the Armed Forces since the decision was made. "We are hopeful that the personnel shortage issue will soon be resolved, if the decision remains in effect."