Sofia Globe
April 5, 2022

US approval in principle for proposed sale of more F-16s to Bulgaria

The US State Department has approved a possible sale to Bulgaria of F-16 C/D Block 70 fighter jets and related equipment for $1.673 billion, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement.

The agency said that it had on April 4 delivered the required certification to the US Congress notifying it of the possible sale.

It said that Bulgaria had requested to buy four F-16 C and four F-16 D fighter jets.

Bulgaria also has request to buy 11 engines and a long list of other related equipment, including various types of missiles.

“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a Nato ally…,” the agency said.

“The proposed sale will improve Bulgaria’s capability…enabling the Bulgarian Air Force to deploy modern fighter aircraft routinely in the Black Sea region.”

The agency said that the acquisition of these aircraft would provide Bulgaria a Nato interoperable platform and allow the Bulgarian Air Force to operate more frequently alongside other regional F-16 operators, promoting common doctrine and operations.

***

If the deal goes ahead, it would be the second time that Bulgaria buys F-16s.

Bulgaria previously paid for eight….