First of Bulgarian Air Force’s F-16s has successful test flight

A successful test flight of the first Bulgarian F-16 Block 70 fighter was carried out on October 22 at the Lockheed Martin manufacturing plant in Greenville, South Carolina, according to statements by Bulgaria’s Defence Ministry and the company.

During the flight, a large number of system tests were performed to verify the operational and supersonic capabilities of the aircraft, the Defence Ministry said.

The tested F-16 Block 70 fighter is the first of a total of 16 that Bulgaria will receive, according to the two contracts signed in 2019 and 2022, respectively.

“The F-16 has repeatedly proven its security capabilities in the 21st century,” OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin, said, as quoted in a Lockheed Martin media statement.

“With the F-16 Block 70, the Bulgarian Air Force will be well equipped to ensure the security of its borders and cooperate with US, European and Nato allies,” Sanchez said.

“From the beginning, the F-16 was designed as a multi-role, adaptable and scalable fighter.

“Whether it’s airspace security or offensive missions as needed, the F-16 strengthens Nato partnerships and will continue to do so for years to come,” Sanchez said.

Bulgaria will be the second European country to receive the F-16 Block 70. Currently, the F-16 is operated by 27 countries, six of which have chosen the F-16 Block 70/72 model for their fleets.

(Photos: Defence Ministry)

Source: First of Bulgarian Air Force’s F-16s has successful test flight