Bulgarian government approves project to build NATO base with Italy’s help

The new NATO base will include the Bezmer air base and will host the Alliance’s multinational battle group stationed in the country. The facilities will be able to accommodate a brigade of about 5,000 soldiers, and if necessary, the deployment of an entire division.

According to the government’s decision, “this is a strategic step to strengthen the defense capabilities of Bulgaria and NATO, ensuring a rapid response to a threat.”

According to the Chief of Defense, Adm. Emil Eftimov, the project will bring economic benefits to the region through construction, maintenance and supply. The investment is over 100 million euros, with part of the funds coming from NATO.

The future base is close to the large civil airport in Sarafovo, has a built-in railway infrastructure to Burgas, Plovdiv and Sofia, quick access to the sea and is close to the Novo Selo training ground.

Edited by Ivo Ivanov
English version: R. Petkova