Bulgaria receives first F-16 Block 70 Jet from Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin has delivered the first F-16 Block 70 fighter jet to Bulgaria, marking a key milestone in the country’s efforts to modernize its air force. The handover ceremony took place last Friday in Greenville, South Carolina, where the aircraft was produced, with the participation of Bulgaria’s Minister of Defence, Atanas Zapryanov, along with American and Bulgarian officials. Bulgaria has ordered a total of 16 F-16 Block 70 aircraft as part of its air force modernization program. The new jets are expected to enhance the country's defense capabilities and strengthen interoperability with NATO allies. “The F-16 will help the Bulgarian Air Force stay ahead of threats in the region and play a key role in the allied peacekeeping mission in Europe and around the world,” said Mike Shoemaker, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group. Lockheed Martin currently has a production backlog of 117 F-16 Block 70/72 aircraft at its Greenville facility, with 23 jets already delivered to international customers. The F-16 program supports over 46,000 jobs across the United States, contributing significantly to the country’s defense industrial base.

The F-16 Block 70 variant features advanced avionics, improved radar systems, and enhanced mission capabilities, offering a combat-proven platform designed to meet modern security challenges.