Bulgaria Initiates Overhaul of MiG-29 Engines Amidst Transition to F-16 Block 70

April 8, 2024- Sofia, Bulgaria: To bolster its air force capabilities, the Ministry of Defence of Bulgaria has launched a public procurement process to overhaul six engines utilized in its MiG-29 fighter jets. 

This significant move, unveiled through data disclosed in the Public Procurement Register, signifies Bulgaria’s steadfast commitment to maintaining military readiness amidst a transitioning fleet.

The procurement process commenced on April 5, 2024, with a designated deadline of May 17, 2024, inviting interested parties to submit bids for the overhaul project. 

The estimated value of the endeavour stands at BGN 19,620,000 excluding VAT, and BGN 23,544,000 including VAT, indicating the substantial investment being made to ensure the airworthiness and operational efficacy of Bulgaria’s fighter jet fleet.

This decision to overhaul the MiG-29 engines follows a strategic imperative to enhance combat readiness and align operational capabilities with the impending induction of the F-16 Block 70 aircraft into Bulgaria’s aerial arsenal. 

Last year, on August 11, 2023, the Defence Ministry inked a contract for the overhaul of six MiG-29 engines, entrusting the repair work to the Polish state-owned entity, Wojskowe Zakłady Lotnicze Nr 2 S.A.

Deputy Defence Minister Stanimir Georgiev had previously affirmed plans to dispatch the MiG-29 engines to Poland for repair by the conclusion of August 2023. 

This proactive approach underscores Bulgaria’s proactive stance in ensuring the seamless integration of newer aircraft models while upholding the operational efficiency of existing assets.

Former Defence Minister Todor Tagarev had emphasized Bulgaria’s reliance on its MiG-29 fighters until the full operational deployment of the F-16 Block 70 aircraft, slated to assume responsibility for securing Bulgarian airspace. 

The ongoing procurement initiative reaffirms Bulgaria’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding national security interests and bolstering its defence capabilities in tandem with evolving geopolitical dynamics.

The overhaul of MiG-29 engines represents a pivotal milestone in Bulgaria’s military modernization efforts, serving as a testament to the nation’s proactive stance in adapting to emerging security challenges. 

As Bulgaria transitions towards a more diversified and technologically advanced air force fleet, the prudent investment in overhauling existing assets underscores a commitment to maintaining operational readiness and effectiveness in safeguarding national interests.

In conclusion, the initiation of the MiG-29 engine overhaul underscores Bulgaria’s strategic foresight and proactive approach to bolstering its defence capabilities amidst a changing security landscape. 

As the nation continues its transition towards newer aircraft models, this procurement initiative reaffirms Bulgaria’s steadfast commitment to ensuring military readiness and operational excellence in safeguarding national sovereignty.