Bulgaria Inks Deal to Buy 8 F-16s

The signed letter of offer and acceptance will double Bulgaria's fleet of F-16s set to replace its fleet of aging MiG-29 fighter jets.

Kimberly Johnson

Tuesday, November 29, 2022 at 07:27 PM ET

Verified

Bulgaria signed a letter of offer and acceptance for the purchase of eight F-16s. [Credit: Lockheed Martin]

Key Takeaways:

Bulgaria has signed a $1.3 billion agreement for a second purchase of eight Lockheed Martin F-16 C/D Block 70 fighter jets, which, combined with an earlier order, will fully equip a squadron and replace its aging MiG-29 fleet.
This latest F-16 deal is crucial for acquiring essential air-to-ground armament and advanced updates for both new and previously purchased F-16s, significantly enhancing their combat capabilities.
With F-16 deliveries starting in 2027, Bulgaria plans to acquire interim fighter jets from France or Sweden. This modernization effort is a direct response to securing Bulgarian airspace following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and strengthens NATO's eastern flank defense.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Bulgaria has signed an agreement to purchase eight Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons as replacements for its aging fleet of MiG-29 fighter jets, which it is set to retire in the coming year, according to reports.

The letter of offer and acceptance (LOA) for the $1.3 billion purchase was signed November 28, Janes reported. The deal is the second purchase of eight F-16 C/D Block 70s for the Balkan country, and will allow the Bulgarian Air Force to equip a full squadron upon delivery, which will begin in 2027.