Lockheed Martin has received funding to build modernised F-16V Bock 70/72 fighters for Bulgaria

About a year ago Bulgaria decided to buy an additional batch of modernised F-16 Block 70/72 (Viper) fighters. This week Lockheed Martin received funds for the aircraft construction programme.

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The contract was announced by the US Department of Defence. The $151.36 million agreement runs through 30 September 2027 and aims to build eight Block 70/72 level F-16V fighters. Work will take place at Lockheed Martin facilities in South Carolina and Texas.

Bulgaria ordered 16 modernised aircraft three years ago. The additional batch includes four F-16C and F-16D fighters each. The deal was worth almost $1.3bn and deliveries are due to be completed by 2030.

The Block 70/72 is the most modern version of the aircraft. The fighter is equipped with an active phased array radar. The Northrop Grumman AN/APG-83 radar is based on the AN/APG-80 model used in the F-16E/F Block 60.

Source: Pentagon