Bulgaria on Wednesday received the first of 16 new F-16 fighter jets from the United States, marking a major step in modernizing its air force and aligning its military capabilities with NATO standards.
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov welcomed the aircraft at the Graf Ignatievo air base in central Bulgaria, calling it more than just a military asset.
“This is not just a fighter jet, but a symbol and embodiment of Bulgaria’s strategic partnership with the United States—a partnership that brings a new outlook for the Bulgarian Army,” he said.
Bulgaria initially signed a $1.3 billion deal in July 2019 to purchase eight multi-role F-16 Block 70 jets. Delivery was originally scheduled for 2023 but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, the government finalized a second deal with Lockheed Martin to acquire an additional eight jets by the end of 2027.
A NATO member since 2004, Bulgaria has long aimed to replace its aging fleet of Soviet-era MiG-29 aircraft. Budget constraints, however, caused repeated delays. As Russia’s war in Ukraine continues, Bulgaria has been depending on support from other NATO allies to meet its air policing responsibilities.