Bulgaria’s second batch of eight F-16 Block 70 fighter aircraft could face a significant delivery delay, with the schedule potentially moving from late 2027 to the second quarter of 2030 because of production challenges. Lockheed Martin representatives informed Bulgarian Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov of the possible delay during an August 14 meeting, although the company stressed that the revised schedule is not final and that efforts will be made to minimize disruptions. The potential delay has prompted Sofia to examine interim options to prevent a fighter capability gap. Bulgaria is considering acquiring used aircraft, including secondhand F-16s and JAS-39 Gripens, while inquiries have also been sent to Poland and Hungary regarding available MiG-29 aircraft and spare parts. The government has yet to select a specific interim aircraft solution. Bulgaria is also assessing requirements for spare parts, pilot training, technical support, and long-term fleet sustainment. The country ordered its first eight F-16s in 2019 and received its first aircraft in April 2025. A second batch of eight aircraft was ordered in 2022 to replace the country’s aging Soviet-era MiG-29 fleet.
