What
Bulgarian Air Force.

Where
Bezmer, Dolna Mitropoliya, Graf Ignatievo & Krumovo, Bulgaria.

When
15-19 August 2011.

Objective
To create awareness of the difficult situation the Bulgarian Air Force is in, as it struggles to modernize its aircraft and helicopters on an ever-squeezed budget.


Photo opportunity
A full week of visits to Bulgarian Air Force bases, including a two-day visit to Graf Ignatievo.


Gathering of information
Interviews with base commanders and informal talks with personnel.


Article quote
"While the focus was on a large force of fighter jets during the Cold War, over the past couple of decades the BVVS has transformed into a much smaller, yet also a more balanced air arm. Bulgaria's drive towards improved NATO interoperability has led to the arrival of new AS532 Cougar helicopters and C-27J Spartan transport aircraft."

Response
"El motivo de dirigirme a usted hoy es el excelente y detallado reportaje sobre la Fuerza Aérea de Bulgaria (..). Como Primer Ministro de mi país (2001-2005) seguí de cerca algunos temas relatives y en particular, la prolongación de la 'vida' de nuestros MiG-29. (..) Mi felicitación pues a todo su brillante equipo por publicar la mejor revista especializada!"
     His Majesty Tsar Simeon II, former prime minister and tsar of Bulgaria