Greece to deploy Patriot Air Defense Battery in Western Thrace to support Bulgaria
Official Statements
Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias confirmed that during a phone call with Bulgarian Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov, Greece agreed to provide personnel and equipment to enhance Bulgaria’s air defense capabilities.
Dendias stated that, in accordance with the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA) decisions, the Patriot battery will be positioned to cover northern Greece and provide anti-ballistic support for most of Bulgaria.
Additional Defense Measures
Air Force Coordination: Two Greek F-16 Fighting Falcon jets will assist in monitoring Bulgarian airspace.
Military Liaison: Two senior Greek Air Force officers will be sent to Sofia to work at the Bulgarian Armed Forces Operations Center, coordinating joint activities.
Territorial Deployment: Patriot battery positioning and adjustments to Greece’s air defense systems will maximize coverage of the northern region.
Minister Dendias also announced plans to visit Bulgaria next week to further strengthen bilateral defense cooperation.
This deployment highlights increased regional collaboration between Greece and Bulgaria amid evolving security challenges in Southeastern Europe, emphasizing NATO-aligned strategic coordination.
