No timeline yet for remaining U.S. F-16 deliveries to Bulgaria, Defence Minister says

Bulgaria has no confirmed delivery schedule for the remaining six F-16 Block 70 fighter jets it has ordered from the United States, Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov said in a written response to MP Ivaylo Mirchev.

According to the minister, the delivery depends on the U.S. Air Force and NATO partners. He cited logistical challenges, including the need to maintain an in-flight fuel reserve for transatlantic flights and the formation of ferry groups. The U.S. reportedly has a limited number of aircraft capable of refuelling the jets mid-air over the ocean, making planning more complex.

Bulgaria received its first two F-16s in April and June. Under the initial contract, six more jets are expected by the end of 2025. An additional eight, under a second contract, are scheduled for delivery by end-2027.

Former Prime Minister Ivan Kostov criticised the process at a recent forum, calling Bulgaria’s reliance on supplier timelines rather than military needs a "critical vulnerability." The original delivery date for the first batch was set for 2023 but was postponed by nearly two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova

Posted in English by E. Radkova