Bulgaria has received its first shipment of F-16 “Fighting Falcon” aircraft from Lockheed Martin’s Greenville production site. This delivery marks a significant step in Bulgaria’s military modernization efforts as a NATO member and ally of the United States. The ceremony in Greenville, South Carolina, presented the first two of the 16 ordered aircraft to Bulgaria’s Minister of Defense, Atanas Zapryanov, with attendance from Bulgarian leaders and representatives from the Tennessee Air National Guard.
Tennessee’s involvement in this initiative stems from its partnership with Bulgaria under the National Guard’s State Partnership Program. The F-16 Block 70 jets delivered are considered highly advanced, featuring state-of-the-art avionics, radar, and weapons systems. These additions will significantly enhance Bulgaria’s air defense capabilities and integration with NATO allies.
Latest TN News
Maj. Myyah Lockhart, the State Partnership Program Director for the Tennessee National Guard, emphasized the importance of these aircraft for air policing missions over the Black Sea region, noting that Bulgaria’s inventory now ranks among the top tier of fighter air superiority.
The F-16 acquisition is part of Bulgaria’s broader military modernization strategy amid regional security concerns. The deal, finalized in 2019, aligns with NATO’s efforts to bolster defense capabilities. Bulgarian Defense Minister Todor Tagarev remarked that these aircraft would enhance Bulgaria’s response to security challenges and strengthen its contributions to NATO’s collective defense.
The partnership between Tennessee and Bulgaria dates back to 1993 and has played a crucial role in Bulgaria’s decision-making regarding the F-16 purchase. With the aircraft now delivered, Bulgarian pilots and maintenance crews will begin their training, and the full fleet of F-16 Block 70s is expected to be operational by the end of 2025.
Bulgaria continues to advance its military modernization efforts, strengthening ties with Tennessee and enhancing its role within NATO and its relationship with the United States.
Source: Read Original Release