Sofia, Bulgaria – Bulgaria is set to receive all of its F-16 fighter jets by the end of 2025, as confirmed by both the United States government and Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the aircraft.
The announcement was made public by Bulgarian Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov during a recent presentation to the Defense Committee.
The delivery of the F-16s marks a significant step in Bulgaria’s efforts to modernize its air force and strengthen its national defense capabilities.
Zapryanov reassured lawmakers that the certification of facilities at the Graf Ignatievo airbase, the future home of the F-16 fleet, has been successfully completed.
Approximately half a billion leva has been allocated for the base’s modernization to ensure it meets NATO standards and accommodates the new jets.
“The American inspection team has expressed a high level of satisfaction with the state of the infrastructure. There are no concerns that would hinder the timely delivery and deployment of the F-16s,” Zapryanov stated.
The minister highlighted that upgrading Graf Ignatievo airbase is part of a broader modernization strategy aimed at enhancing Bulgaria’s military readiness.
He noted that many of the country’s existing air force facilities date back to the Warsaw Pact era and are in urgent need of renovation.
The modernization project seeks to create state-of-the-art infrastructure, not only for the incoming F-16s but also to establish a long-term framework for Bulgaria’s evolving military needs.
Bulgaria initially signed a deal with the United States in 2019 to purchase eight F-16 Block 70 aircraft, followed by an additional contract in 2022 for eight more jets.
The acquisition aims to replace the aging Soviet-era MiG-29 fleet and improve Bulgaria’s interoperability with NATO forces.
The Defense Committee has already approved the national defense budget for the year, which allocates 2.09% of Bulgaria’s GDP to military spending. Zapryanov expressed optimism that the government will further increase funding to 2.5% of GDP within the next three years.
He emphasized that such an increase is essential to sustain Bulgaria’s military modernization efforts and meet NATO’s target of 2% defense spending among member states.
With the ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe, Bulgaria has been actively working to strengthen its defense posture. The procurement of the F-16s is expected to enhance the country’s air policing capabilities and contribute to regional security.
Defense analysts have welcomed the news, noting that the F-16 Block 70 is one of the most advanced versions of the fighter jet, equipped with cutting-edge radar systems, advanced avionics, and increased fuel efficiency.
Military experts believe the aircraft will significantly improve Bulgaria’s ability to conduct aerial operations and fulfill its commitments to NATO’s collective defense strategy.
As Bulgaria prepares for the arrival of its new fighter jets, officials remain focused on ensuring a smooth transition from its older fleet.
Training programs for Bulgarian pilots and maintenance crews are already underway, with support from the U.S. Air Force and Lockheed Martin specialists.
The full delivery of the F-16s by 2025 marks a milestone in Bulgaria’s defense modernization, reinforcing the country’s role as a reliable NATO ally in the region.
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