The key facts

  • Boeing P-8A Poseidon is conducting reconnaissance missions over the Black Sea by a joint decision of Bulgaria and NATO
  • Over the past month, four vessels have been attacked in Bulgaria's exclusive economic zone, two of which sank
  • Bulgaria has requested air patrols, missile and anti-drone systems from NATO allies

Confirmation of the Patrol

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev confirmed on Tuesday that a US Navy Boeing P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft is conducting reconnaissance missions over the Black Sea, the BTA agency reports. According to him, the aircraft is conducting reconnaissance to identify potential threats after drone attacks on commercial vessels in the region, and NATO allies quickly responded to Bulgaria's request for assistance.

The Defense Minister's Position

Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov stated that the aircraft belongs to NATO and should not be associated with any specific country. He stressed that the Poseidon has no strike capabilities and will continue its missions for as long as necessary. According to him, the decision on the aircraft's presence was made jointly by Bulgaria and NATO, and the information gathered is passed to the alliance.

Context of the Attacks and Request for Assistance

Bulgaria's Ministry of Defense previously confirmed that an American military aircraft conducted a patrol over the Black Sea as part of measures to enhance vigilance. Radev said that Bulgaria has fully deployed its surveillance, reconnaissance, detection and response capabilities, and additional assistance from allies is expected. Last week, Bulgaria requested air patrols and additional military equipment from NATO partners, including missile systems, anti-drone systems and patrol aircraft. Over the past month, four vessels have been attacked in Bulgaria's exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea, two of which sank.