The Bulgarian Navy has formally commissioned its first newly built warship in more than a century, Defence Minister Atanas Zaprianov said on 8 December during a ceremony in Varna. The event marked the official raising of the naval flag on the multifunctional patrol ship Hrabri.

According to Defence Minister Zaprianov, while the previous naval vessel received a century ago was constructed in France, Hrabri was built by the Bulgarian shipbuilding company MTG Delfin.

He stated that the project demonstrated Bulgaria’s ability to construct this class of ships and added that allied countries have already expressed interest in similar vessels.

The Defence Minister confirmed that the ship is fully operational, has successfully passed all necessary tests, and has joined active naval service.

Zaprianov said that the government will continue implementing modernisation projects in the defence sector. He said that work on a second multifunctional patrol ship for the fleet is planned but added that financial resources to deepen the Varna naval base have not yet been secured. He also mentioned that some nationally funded projects may require renegotiation.

He further stated that negotiations are ongoing with Belgium and the Netherlands for the acquisition of seven second-hand minelayers.

On social media, the Bulgarian Navy said Zaprianov emphasised the importance of modernising the Armed Forces and pointed to the support given by the current and previous governments, including Prime Minister Boyko Borisov. He also said Bulgaria is waiting for European Commission approval for nine SAFE mechanism projects, two of which involve buying more missiles for the two new ships.

Vice Admiral Meli Eftimov called the day very important but reminded the crew that their responsibilities now increase. He said they must focus on equipping Hrabri and learning its new systems. He added that the ship strengthens the fleet’s capabilities and comes at a time when the Black Sea’s geopolitical importance is rising.

Chief of Defence Admiral Emil Eftimov said the project was the result of the efforts of multiple governments, the Navy, and MTG Delfin. He added that building the ship in a domestic shipyard preserves engineering and shipbuilding expertise and supports regional development. He stated that the commissioning of Hrabri represents a firm step in modernising the Bulgarian Army alongside the introduction of F-16 aircraft and new land combat vehicles.

Admiral Eftimov also told the crew that they are responsible for turning the ship into a fully operational capability and setting an example for future sailors.

Rear Admiral Kiril Mikhailov reported that the new ship can carry either a helicopter or unmanned aerial vehicles, offering enhanced operational flexibility. He noted that naval personnel will need to train for landing aircraft on deck and integrating ship and aircraft systems into combat operations. He added that Hrabri provides capabilities suitable for current and future threats, and strengthens Bulgaria’s ability to defend its interests at sea.

Reference: Bulgarian Navy