Bulgaria’s second batch of eight F-16 Block 70 fighter jets could be delayed until the second quarter of 2030, the Defense Ministry said after talks between Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov and representatives of Lockheed Martin.
The American aircraft manufacturer informed the Bulgarian side that difficulties in the production process had emerged and could push back delivery of the second eight fighters. However, Lockheed Martin stressed that the second-quarter 2030 date is not final and that all possible measures would be taken to accelerate production and deliver the aircraft earlier.
Stoyanov said reducing the delay is a priority for Bulgaria, while also stressing that the country should not face additional costs because of the production problems.
“For the Bulgarian side, it is of key importance that the delay is minimized and does not lead to an additional financial burden for the state. We expect assurances that the delay will not affect the final price of the contract, as well as specific actions to reduce the delays,” he said.
The discussions also covered the remaining work under the contract for Bulgaria’s first eight F-16 Block 70 aircraft. The government’s goal is for the first batch to enter combat duty in 2027.
