Bulgaria welcomed the first of its new F-16V Block 70 jets on April 13, 2024, marking a major development for its military fleet. Lockheed Martin delivered the fighter to the country as part of a 16-jet order that will be completed by the end of 2025. This delivery introduces a Western-made frontline fighter into Bulgaria’s air force for the first time.
Lockheed confirmed that this delivery marks Bulgaria’s first addition of a new combat aircraft in 35 years. The aircraft will replace older Soviet-era fighters and increase Bulgaria’s overall readiness. Before this, the air force operated 10 RAC MiG-29s, five Sukhoi Su-25s, and seven L-39 trainer jets from the Czech Republic.
The new F-16V version, also known as the Block 70, provides a range of improvements. It comes equipped with a Northrop Grumman APG-83 radar, which uses active electronically scanned array technology. The aircraft also has an extended structural service life of 12,000 hours.
Mike Shoemaker, general manager of Lockheed’s integrated fighter group, said, “the start of F-16 operations in Bulgaria represents a new era of enhanced security, advanced capabilities and strengthened partnerships in the region.”
Bulgaria becomes the second country in Europe to operate the newest variant of the F-16 after Slovakia. Romania, a neighboring NATO member, has also taken steps to support regional defense by partnering with Lockheed and other governments to open an F-16 training center.
Growing European F-16V presence
NATO’s eastern flank has played an important role in recent years by supporting air policing duties and providing military support to Ukraine. Countries in this area have become increasingly involved in joint operations.
Lockheed reported that more than 700 F-16s now serve in Europe. The company currently has a backlog of 114 F-16Vs being assembled at its facility in Greenville, South Carolina. Outside of the United States, 26 Block 70/72 jets have already been delivered.
The F-16V Block 70 version uses the GE Aerospace F110-129 engine. The Block 72 uses the Pratt & Whitney F100-229 turbofan. Both types aim to support operational readiness and performance.
Bulgarian defense minister Atanas Zapryanov said, “For the air force, this means a new era in their development.” This delivery marks a turning point as the country joins other NATO allies in upgrading its defense systems.
Bulgaria’s order includes 16 F-16V jets in total, with seven more scheduled for delivery before 2025 ends. The new jets will replace older aircraft and serve a new role in air policing and defense coordination across the NATO alliance.
