Ankara: Bulgaria faces no direct threat to its national security and does not require an additional Patriot air defense squadron, Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov announced during a recent visit to Graf Ignatievo Air Base. Stoyanov made these remarks in the presence of Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Defense Minister addressed questions regarding the need for Patriot air defense systems, emphasizing that Bulgaria's current security status does not necessitate such an expansion. The visit also highlighted significant investments made at the air base, amounting to nearly BGN 600 million (approximately $360 million), which have facilitated extensive reconstruction work.

Stoyanov further mentioned that the development of five additional facilities is scheduled to commence soon. However, he acknowledged delays in some projects and expressed his intention to engage with contractors to ensure timely completion.