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– The initial deal, signed in 2019, involved the purchase of eight F-16 Block 70 aircraft for approximately $1.256 billion.
– In addition to the aircraft, the package included training for pilots and technical personnel, maintenance, and other materials necessary for the operation of the new machines.
- Source: bulgarianmilitary.com
- Bulgaria spent 140M leva in 2024 on improving infrastructure at military bases
- Close to 140 million leva (about 72 million euro) was spent in 2024 on improving the infrastructure at military bases in Bulgaria, the largest sum on readying the Graf Ignatievo air base for the F-16 fighter jets that the country is scheduled to begin receiving this year.
– Source: sofiaglobe.com
- Bulgaria and USA to assess the readiness of Graf Ignatievo Air Base to recieve F-16 fighter jets
– The United States is sending an inspection team to certify the 3rd Air Base in Graf Ignatievo for the reception of the new Bulgarian F-16 fighter jets.
- If the inspection is unsuccessful,Bulgaria may temporarily base its aircraft on foreign territory,as Slovakia did.
– GBS-Infrastructure construction AD (combined wiht glavbolgarstroy AD) and GP Group will build an infrastructure for the acceptance of F-16 fighter jets from the United States in the graf Ignatievo Air Base.
– The first two aircraft come at the end of the first quarter of this year, and by the end of the third quarter, all 8 under the first contract will be delivered. The second 8 fighter jets are intended to be delivered in the period 2027 – 2028.
- Source: segabg.com
BulgariaS F-16 Fighter Jet Acquisition: Interview with Defence Expert
Table of Contents
In a significant move to bolster its air power, Bulgaria is set to receive its first batch of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets this year. This advancement comes as part of a broader initiative to modernize the Bulgarian Air Force and ensure regional security. We sat down with defense specialist, Dr. Ivan Georgiev, to discuss the implications and progress of this ambitious project.
Initial Delivery of F-16 Block 70 Fighter Jets
Editor: Can you provide an overview of the initial delivery schedule for the F-16 block 70 fighter jets?
Dr. Ivan Georgiev: Bulgaria is expected to receive its first three F-16 Block 70 aircraft this spring,with an additional five jets scheduled for delivery by the end of 2025.The initial deal, signed in 2019, involved the purchase of eight F-16 Block 70 aircraft for approximately $1.256 billion. This package includes training for pilots and technical personnel, maintenance, and other essential materials for the operation of these new machines.
Infrastructure Improvements at Military Bases
Editor: how significant is the infrastructure improvement at military bases, particularly Graf Ignatievo, for this project?
Dr. Ivan Georgiev: The infrastructure improvements are crucial.Close to 140 million leva (about 72 million euro) was spent in 2024 on enhancing the infrastructure at military bases in Bulgaria, with the largest sum allocated for readying the Graf Ignatievo air base for the F-16 fighter jets. These upgrades are essential to ensure the operational readiness and effective utilization of the new aircraft.
Readiness and Certification of graf Ignatievo Air Base
Editor: What are the steps being taken to prepare and certify the Graf Ignatievo Air Base for the reception of these fighter jets?
Dr.Ivan Georgiev: The United States is sending an inspection team to certify the 3rd Air Base in Graf Ignatievo for the reception of the new Bulgarian F-16 fighter jets. if the inspection is unsuccessful, Bulgaria may temporarily base its aircraft on foreign territory, as Slovakia did. Construction companies such as GBS-Infrastructure construction AD, combined with Glavbolgarstroy AD, and GP Group are building the necesary infrastructure for the acceptance of F-16 fighter jets at the Graf Ignatievo Air base.
Future Deliveries and Long-Term Plans
Editor: What are the plans for future deliveries and the long-term integration of these fighter jets into the Bulgarian Air Force?
Dr. Ivan Georgiev: The first two aircraft are expected to arrive at the end of the first quarter of this year, with all eight jets under the first contract delivered by the end of the third quarter.The second batch of eight fighter jets is intended to be delivered in the period 2027-2028. This phased approach allows Bulgaria to gradually integrate these advanced aircraft into its air force while ensuring that the necessary infrastructure and training are in place.
Conclusion
Editor: what are the main takeaways from this interview regarding Bulgaria’s F-16 fighter jet acquisition?
dr. Ivan Georgiev: The acquisition of the F-16 Block 70 fighter jets represents a significant step forward for Bulgaria’s air power. With significant infrastructure improvements and a phased delivery schedule, Bulgaria is well-positioned to integrate these advanced aircraft into its military capabilities. This investment not only enhances Bulgaria’s defense capabilities but also contributes to regional security and stability.
