Slovakia approves purchase of four additional F-16 fighter jets

The Slovak government has approved a proposal by Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák to procure four additional F-16 D Block 70 fighter jets. This second phase of modernization aims to expand the existing fleet of 14 aircraft to ensure the Slovak Armed Forces can fulfill NATO and EU operational requirements and training tasks on domestic territory.

The U.S. administration has estimated the cost for these four additional aircraft at approximately 390 million euros, excluding VAT and customs duties. These new jets will feature the V4 modification, which includes updated avionics and systems compared to the V3 version acquired in 2018.

The procurement process is intended to leverage existing personnel, technical, and logistical capacities established during the first phase. Delivery of the aircraft is expected to be completed by the end of 2030, with the U.S. offer remaining valid until September 15, 2026.