Lockheed Martin: successful flight of first Bulgarian F-16 Block 70 aircraft

Bulgaria will be the second European country to receive the F-16 Block 70.  

This F-16 Block 70 jet will be the first of 16 to be delivered to Bulgaria. Bulgaria signed its first Letter of Acceptance (LOA) for eight F-16s in 2019 and signed a second LOA for an additional eight jets in 2022.     

“The F-16 has proven its 21st Century Security capabilities time and again,” said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager, Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. “With the F-16 Block 70, the Bulgarian Air Force will be well-equipped to secure its borders and partner with U.S, European and NATO allies.”  

Sanchez added: “The F-16 was integrated by design from the beginning as a versatile, adaptable and scalable aircraft. Whether it be through air policing or offensive missions if required, the F-16 is strengthening NATO partnerships and will continue to do so for years to come.”  

The F-16 is currently operated by 27 countries, with six countries selecting the F-16 Block 70/72 version for their fleets.