Sofia dismisses claim Ukraine is using Bulgarian aircraft awaiting repairs

The contract for the overhaul of Bulgaria's An-30 transport aircraft by Ukrainian company Ukrainmash has been extended until Aug. 2, 2026, Defence Minister Dimitar Stoyanov said, dismissing claims that the aircraft was being used by Ukraine.

Responding to a question from Vazrazhdane lawmaker Ivelin Parvanov, Stoyanov rejected claims that Ukraine was secretly using the plane while it remained there for repairs. "That is absolutely untrue," he said, according to BTA.

The contract with Ukrainmash, signed in October 2020, has faced major delays due to force majeure circumstances, Stoyanov explained, citing the COVID-19 pandemic and, subsequently, the war in Ukraine. He said the contractor had repeatedly confirmed its readiness to complete the overhaul and return the aircraft.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova

Edited and posted in English by E. Radkova