Military jet crashes in Bulgaria during NATO drill, pilots killed

On Friday, a tragic incident occurred when a Bulgarian military jet, specifically an L-39 Albatros training aircraft, crashed during a drill intended for an airshow. The crash took place near Graf Ignatievo Air Base, located approximately 150 kilometers from Sofia, shortly after noon. Both pilots aboard the aircraft lost their lives in the accident, which also ignited a significant fire on the ground, prompting emergency response teams to rush to the scene to contain the blaze. The crash has raised concerns regarding the safety protocols in place during military drills, especially those associated with public displays such as airshows. Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the crash, which is crucial for preventing similar incidents in the future. The Ministry of Defense has confirmed that efforts are underway to assess the situation and manage the aftermath of the accident. In light of this unfortunate event, Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov made the decision to cancel the airshow that was scheduled to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Bulgaria's NATO membership. This cancellation reflects the somber mood following the loss of the pilots and the need to prioritize safety and respect for those affected. As Bulgaria commemorates significant milestones in its military history, including the induction of the MiG-29 into the Air Force 35 years ago, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in military operations and the importance of thorough investigations to ensure the safety of personnel.