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

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

Key Takeaways:

Bulgaria has signed a second agreement to purchase eight Lockheed Martin F-16 C/D Block 70 fighter jets for $1.3 billion, aiming to replace its aging MiG-29 fleet.
This latest acquisition, combined with a previous order, will provide a full squadron of F-16s equipped with advanced armament and technology, with deliveries expected to begin in 2027.
The country is also seeking interim fighter jets from manufacturers like Dassault or Saab to bridge the gap until the new F-16s are delivered.
This strategic move enhances Bulgaria's air defense and NATO interoperability, addressing regional security concerns following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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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.