The first Bulgarian F-16 Block 70 with combat number 301 was officially received today at the Third Air Base “Graf Ignatievo“. Despite the sunny weather and the expectation that the machine would be presented in flight, it remained in the hangar, where the welcoming ceremony was held. With the arrival of the new aircraft, the renewal of the Bulgarian combat aviation is being started and full compatibility with NATO allies is ensured. The machine is among the most modern combat aircraft in the world and provides speed, flexibility and protection, according to the standards of modern air combat. By the end of the current year, Bulgaria is expected to acquire a total of 70 F-16 Block aircraft.
“The F-16 Bock 70 aircraft with combat number 301 becomes part of the security of our airspace and ensures the protection of our national sovereignty and the combat capability of NATO's eastern flank. Beyond this material acquisition, this day symbolizes something more - it is an ideological change. A change that began in 2019, when, after difficult political debates, after a number of consultations in the National Assembly, the then majority, which embodies Bulgaria's Euro-Atlantic perspective, made it possible for the contract to become a fact," said Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov during his speech.
He added that today's moment is a symbol of the strategic partnership we have with the US, not only in the field of defense, but also in energy. All this is a guarantee for increasing the capacity of our armed forces, for security in the troubled region we are in.
Not 2% of Bulgaria's GDP is needed for defense, but 2.5-3%, said Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov, as the current funds are extremely insufficient for the modernization of the Bulgarian army.
„With the arrival of the F-16, we mark the beginning of rearmament. Moreover, this year will be particularly strong for defense, because in addition to new aircraft, new land armored vehicles are also starting to arrive.“, added the minister.„
The Chief of Defense, Admiral Emil Eftimov, defined the acquisition of the new aircraft as a decisive step towards a more combat-ready army. „The acquisition of the multi-role fighter is a moment we have been waiting for for years. It marks the success of our dedicated efforts,” he said.
“This is a significant milestone for the Bulgarian Armed Forces and for the Bulgarian people. When your fighters start flying over Bulgarian skies, you will be provided with a brand new capability to protect the airspace. We need capable allies who are ready to meet common challenges. The stronger you are, the stronger NATO and the United States will be. Bulgaria will be a stronger and more capable ally ready to take greater responsibility for its security. When you buy American military systems, you receive training and long-term support for the operation and maintenance of the system. It also takes time to achieve full operational capability of the systems. That is why investments need to be made“, said the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense and NATO Affairs.
Acting US Ambassador to Bulgaria Susan Falatko stated that security cooperation is a cornerstone of bilateral relations. “With the F-16, we are developing the collective ability to protect our skies and protect our citizens. This is also an investment in the future“, she added. The F-16 aircraft program is an example of what we can achieve together. Together we are building a safer and more secure world. The deployment of these aircraft enhances Bulgaria's defense capabilities and sends a clear message that Bulgaria, the United States, and the entire Alliance remain defenders of peace throughout the region," concluded Falatko.