Aviatsiya na VVMF

The Bulgarian Naval Aviation (Aviatsiya na VVMF, Авиация на ВВМФ) is the air arm of the Bulgarian Navy, responsible for maritime patrol, search and rescue, and coastal surveillance along the Black Sea. Established in the late 1950s, the unit has operated a diverse mix of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, including the Ka-27, Ka-28, and AS565MB Panther. Today, its Panthers form the core of Bulgaria’s modern maritime helicopter capability, supporting NATO operations and naval exercises while providing rapid-response support for both military and humanitarian missions. Based at Chayka Airbase near Varna, Bulgarian Naval Aviation remains a key component of the country’s maritime security and regional commitments.