Third Air Base, Bulgaria – June 8, 2025: Bulgaria marked another milestone in its ongoing military modernization efforts on Saturday with the arrival of its second F-16 Block 70 aircraft.
The jet, a single-seat combat version bearing tail number 313, landed at 15:26 at the Third Air Base, located near Graf Ignatievo, under the watchful eyes of senior military officials and base personnel.
The delivery is part of a long-term plan to strengthen Bulgaria’s air defense capabilities and align its military infrastructure with NATO standards. The newly arrived aircraft follows the country’s first F-16 Block 70, a dual-seat combat trainer delivered in April 2025.
Chief of Defense Admiral Emil Eftimov, Air Force Commander Major General Nikolay Rusev, and acting base commander Colonel Metodi Orlov were among the dignitaries present to witness the landing.
Speaking at the event, Admiral Eftimov emphasized the significance of the latest addition to the Bulgarian Air Force fleet. “The process of integrating the new F-16 Block 70 platform into our Air Force continues steadily,” said Admiral Eftimov.
“Today we welcomed our second combat aircraft, and the work continues. Our objective remains to complete the delivery of all eight aircraft under the first contract within this year and to begin developing initial operational capabilities.”
The arrival sets in motion technical and flight acceptance procedures that will ensure the aircraft is fully operational and ready for integration into active service.
According to military officials, both pilots and technical staff are undergoing specialized training to handle the modern systems of the F-16 Block 70, a multirole fighter known for its advanced avionics, improved radar systems, and combat reliability.
The delivery is part of the original $1.26 billion agreement signed in 2019 between Bulgaria and the United States for the acquisition of eight F-16 Block 70 aircraft. The remaining six jets under this deal are expected to be delivered before the end of 2025.
The F-16 Block 70 is considered one of the most advanced versions of the widely used aircraft. It features the APG-83 AESA radar, modern cockpit displays, improved mission systems, and extended structural life, making it a formidable platform for NATO interoperability and regional air defense.
Looking further ahead, Bulgaria has already signed a second contract for an additional eight F-16 Block 70s, expected to be delivered by the end of 2027.
Once all 16 aircraft are in service, the Bulgarian Air Force will operate a full squadron equipped with the state-of-the-art fighter jets, significantly boosting the country’s air deterrence and operational capabilities.
The modernization of the Bulgarian Air Force marks a strategic shift away from aging Soviet-era aircraft and signals Bulgaria’s deepening commitment to NATO defense objectives. With the latest delivery, the country edges closer to a more modern, capable, and integrated military aviation force.