Greek Patriot Air Defense System Extends Coverage Over Bulgaria

A Patriot air defense system operated by Greece is now providing coverage for Bulgarian airspace, according to statements from Bulgaria’s caretaker defense minister Atanas Zapryanov following a parliamentary defense committee meeting in Sofia. 

The system is deployed in northern Greece but positioned to protect a significant portion of Bulgarian territory. Bulgarian officials indicated that the system is currently on operational duty and forms part of a broader arrangement between the two NATO allies to strengthen regional air and missile defense. 

Athens agreed to provide the capability after a formal request from Sofia. The initiative was approved by the Greek government’s national security council and involves both equipment and personnel support. 

In addition to the Patriot system, two Greek Air Force F-16 fighter jets have been assigned to support the mission, operating from bases in northern Greece. The aircraft are intended to provide additional air policing and interception capability linked to the protection of Bulgarian airspace. 

Coordination between the two countries is supported by Greek officers stationed in Bulgaria who are working with the Bulgarian military command on air defense operations. Officials indicated that the deployment is conducted under existing bilateral agreements that allow cross-border air operations and joint combat duty for aircraft from both countries. 

Bulgarian authorities also noted that the country’s air defense posture is supported by additional regional assets, including missile defense systems located in Romania and Türkiye. 

The move highlights the growing importance of regional air and missile defense cooperation among NATO allies in Southeastern Europe, particularly as governments reassess protection against long-range missile threats and cross-border security risks.