Lockheed Martin completes production of initial F-16 Block 70 aircraft for Bulgaria, Slovakia

The aircraft were manufactured at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Greenville, South Carolina. They have completed DD250 final acceptance under the U.S. government’s Foreign Military Sales programme.

According to the company, the delivery of full F-16 Block 70 fleets enables both countries to provide national air defence and contribute to NATO air policing. The aircraft are designed to connect directly to NATO systems and support mission sets already flown by European F-16 operators.

The F-16 Block 70 aircraft are described as a key element of defence modernisation plans in Bulgaria and Slovakia. Their introduction aligns both air forces with the training, standards and operational practices used by 29 allied F-16 operators.

“This milestone represents the talent and dedication of the joint government, military and industry teams,” said Mike Shoemaker, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group. “With full F-16 Block 70 fleets now produced, both nations move from planning for next generation airpower to demonstrating it in daily operations.”

The F-16 Block 70 incorporates the APG-83 AESA radar, which shares 95 per cent software commonality and 70 per cent hardware commonality with the F-35 radar. The aircraft also features conformal fuel tanks, a modern digital cockpit, a 12,000-hour service life and the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System.

These systems support air policing, air defence and joint exercise missions conducted by F-16 operators across Europe. With more than 700 F-16s operating in the region, Bulgaria and Slovakia gain access to established training, logistics support and a broad operator community.

The F-16 programme is supported by a global supply chain of more than 530 suppliers in 12 countries, including European companies such as LOTN in Slovakia and Avionams in Bulgaria. Final assembly takes place in Greenville, the world’s only active F-16 production line, supporting more than 1,500 skilled jobs.

Lockheed Martin said the programme reinforces transatlantic industrial cooperation while sustaining U.S. manufacturing capability. The company added that the F-16 programme supports shared security objectives and long-term industrial participation across Europe.