Lockheed Martin has announced a significant milestone with the successful flight of the first F-16 Block 70 for Bulgaria. The flight took place at the company’s production facility in Greenville, South Carolina. Test pilot Charles “Seeker” Hoag conducted multiple system tests during the flight to validate the jet’s performance and supersonic capabilities.
Bulgaria will become the second European country to receive the F-16 Block 70, enhancing its defence capabilities. This aircraft marks the first of a total of 16 F-16s that Bulgaria will acquire. The nation signed its first Letter of Acceptance (LOA) for eight jets in 2019 and a second LOA for an additional eight jets in 2022.
“The F-16 has proven its 21st Century Security capabilities time and again,” said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. “With the F-16 Block 70, the Bulgarian Air Force will be well-equipped to secure its borders and partner with U.S., European, and NATO allies.”
Sanchez added, “The F-16 was integrated by design from the beginning as a versatile, adaptable, and scalable aircraft. Whether it be through air policing or offensive missions if required, the F-16 is strengthening NATO partnerships and will continue to do so for years to come.”
The F-16 is currently operated by 27 countries, with six countries selecting the F-16 Block 70/72 version for their fleets. As Bulgaria prepares to welcome its new F-16 Block 70 jets, this partnership with Lockheed Martin reinforces both national defence and regional security within the NATO framework.
