Bulgaria has reached a major milestone in modernizing its air force as the final two F-16 Block 70 fighter jets from its first contract with Lockheed Martin arrived on December 16. This F-16 delivery completes the initial phase and brings Bulgaria closer to forming a fully operational squadron capable of defending its airspace and supporting NATO missions. The jets, one single-seat and one two-seat, landed at the Third Air Base with U.S. Air Force markings, which will soon be replaced with Bulgarian insignia.
This F-16 delivery is a key step in replacing the aging MiG-29 fleet, which had become costly to maintain. The Block 70 fighters are multirole jets that can conduct air defense, rapid response missions, and precision strikes, while remaining fully compatible with NATO systems. Their arrival strengthens Bulgaria’s air defense and reflects the country’s commitment to maintaining independent control over its skies.
Enhancing Bulgaria’s Air Defense Capabilities with F-16 Delivery
The F-16 Block 70 jets provided by this F-16 delivery give Bulgaria significantly stronger air defense capabilities. These aircraft can quickly respond to potential threats, conduct air policing missions, and defend the country’s airspace with precision and reliability. The jets are fully compatible with NATO systems, meaning they can operate smoothly with planes from other NATO members, enhancing the overall security of the region.
Rheinmetall opens plans for gunpowder and ammunition plants in Bulgaria for NATO needs
The delivery comes at a critical time, as tensions in Eastern Europe remain high. Bulgarian F-16s will join forces with aircraft from neighboring NATO countries such as Greece, Romania, and Turkey, safeguarding southeastern European airspace and contributing to broader NATO missions.
These new jets will also allow Bulgaria to gradually take on more independent responsibilities for airspace protection and rapid response, reducing reliance on allied air forces for routine patrols and emergency operations.
Completion of Production and NATO Integration
Lockheed Martin has confirmed that it has completed production of all F-16 Block 70 jets ordered by Bulgaria and Slovakia at its Greenville, South Carolina facility. This milestone officially concludes the first squadrons for both countries under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, which provides allied nations with access to advanced American military technology.
The F-16 Block 70 uses a state-of-the-art radar system compatible with the F-35, which allows it to detect and track threats more effectively. The aircraft can operate for 12,000 flight hours and fully integrates into NATO’s shared operational systems. This integration ensures that Bulgaria can carry out missions independently while participating in joint NATO exercises and operations across Europe.
Bulgaria’s bold move — state seizes Lukoil refinery to dodge U.S. sanctions on Russia
The Block 70 variant’s advanced capabilities also mean it can carry a wide range of NATO-standard air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, making it versatile for different types of missions. This F-16 delivery strengthens Bulgaria’s air defense while also allowing the country to actively contribute to NATO’s collective mission in Europe.
Investments and Infrastructure Upgrades
Bulgaria purchased the first eight F-16s for nearly 2.2 billion leva, approximately 1.12 billion euros. The pandemic and global supply chain disruptions delayed delivery schedules and temporarily affected Bulgaria’s ability to operate independently. The second contract for eight additional jets will bring the total fleet to 16 aircraft, with deliveries expected by the end of 2027 at an estimated cost of 2.5 billion leva, or about 1.28 billion euros.
Infrastructure upgrades at the Third Air Base are ongoing to support the new jets, including modern maintenance and operational facilities. Construction of a building for a flight simulator is still in progress. Total investments in these upgrades have reached about 1 billion leva, roughly 510 million euros.
Endgame for Lukoil — Bulgaria’s refinery takeover plan delivers major blow to Kremlin oil power
The F-16 program also has an industrial dimension. Lockheed Martin’s Greenville production line supports over 1,500 jobs, while the broader F-16 supply chain involves more than 530 suppliers across 12 countries, including European partners. This network ensures Bulgaria has access to advanced training, maintenance, and modernization systems, creating a strong connection with other European air forces operating F-16s.
The arrival of the final two jets marks a historic moment for Bulgaria’s air force. An official ceremony to present the first eight F-16 Block 70 aircraft is scheduled for December 18 at the Third Air Base, showcasing the country’s enhanced military aviation capabilities. This F-16 delivery completes the first stage of a long-term plan to modernize Bulgaria’s fighter fleet.