Bulgaria Welcomes Its First F-16 Block 70 Jet from Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin has officially revealed the initial F-16 Block 70 aircraft to Bulgaria, representing a significant advancement in the nation’s initiatives to upgrade its air force capabilities.
The arrival was commemorated at a ceremony last Friday morning in Greenville, South Carolina, attended by Bulgaria’s Minister of Defence, Atanas Zapryanov, along with American and Bulgarian dignitaries. F-16s are manufactured by the Lockheed Martin team in Greenville. Bulgaria has placed an order for a total of 16 aircraft.
“The F-16 will enable the Bulgarian Air Force to maintain an edge against threats in the region and contribute significantly to allied peacekeeping operations in Europe and globally,” stated Mike Shoemaker, vice president and general manager – Integrated Fighter Group. “The F-16 has consistently demonstrated its air superiority, and the Block 70 variation will provide the Bulgarian Air Force with a highly proficient and combat-ready aircraft.”
Lockheed Martin currently has a backlog of 117 F-16 Block 70/72 jets slated for production in Greenville, with 23 already delivered to international allies. The F-16 initiative supports over 46,000 American jobs, rendering it an essential component of the nation’s industrial ecosystem.
