Tamarino Airfield

Military restructuring and economic reasons. The closure was part of 'Plan 2004', a large-scale reform and downsizing of the Bulgarian Armed Forces following the end of the Cold War and in preparation for Bulgaria's accession to NATO. The remaining aircraft and personnel were consolidated at other bases, primarily Bezmer Air Base, to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.

The site of the former Tamarino Airfield has been completely repurposed. The runway, taxiways, and large portions of the apron are now covered by one of Bulgaria's largest photovoltaic power plants (solar farm). While the basic layout of the airfield is still visible from the air, its aviation infrastructure is no longer functional. Some of the original hardened aircraft shelters (HAS) remain standing around the perimeter, with some appearing derelict and others possibly used for agricultural or industrial storage.

Tamarino was a key forward operating base for the Bulgarian Air Force during the Cold War. It was home to the 22nd Attack Aviation Regiment (22-ри щурмови авиополк), later re-designated as the 22nd Attack Air Base (22-ра щурмова авиобаза). The base was strategically important for its role in ground-attack operations, primarily flying the rugged Sukhoi Su-25 'Frogfoot' close air support aircraft. It also operated the Aero L-39ZA Albatros for training and light attack missions. The base and its numerous hardened aircraft shelters were built to withstand a potential conflict with NATO forces to the south (Turkey and Greece), representing a significant element of the Warsaw Pact's southern flank.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening Tamarino Airfield. The permanent installation of the massive solar park on its operational surfaces makes its return to aviation use virtually impossible without the complete demolition of the current energy infrastructure.