Bulgaria delays F-16 delivery to 2030, relies on MiG-29

Bulgaria faces a delay in its military modernization as the delivery of eight F-16 Block 70 fighter jets has been pushed back to the second quarter of 2030. Lockheed Martin informed the Bulgarian Ministry of Defense of production difficulties, though U.S. officials stated they are working to accelerate the process.

To maintain air defense capabilities and fulfill NATO commitments, Bulgaria will rely on its existing MiG-29 fleet for longer than originally planned. Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov noted that the MiG-29s can remain operational until 2029–2030, provided that spare parts are secured. Bulgaria has reached out to Poland and Hungary to source necessary components for these Soviet-era aircraft.

In an effort to bridge the gap, the Bulgarian government is exploring options to acquire combat aircraft through operational leasing. Previous attempts to purchase used F-16s or Swedish Gripen jets were unsuccessful following inquiries to the United States and Sweden. While the first batch of eight F-16s is currently part of the rearmament process, the delay necessitates interim solutions to ensure continuous airspace protection.