Lockheed Martin has completed production of the initial F-16 Block 70 fleets for Bulgaria and Slovakia, providing both countries with advanced fighter jets for national defense and NATO operations. The aircraft were manufactured at Lockheed Martin's facility in Greenville, South Carolina, and received final acceptance through the U.S. government's Foreign Military Sales program.
With these new F-16 Block 70 fleets, Bulgaria and Slovakia are now equipped to enhance their air defense capabilities and support NATO air policing missions. The aircraft are designed to integrate directly with NATO systems, allowing the two nations to align with operational standards used by 29 allied operators across Europe. This commonality is expected to improve readiness, strengthen alliance posture, and increase the number of interoperable aircraft available for NATO missions.
Mike Shoemaker, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin's Integrated Fighter Group, stated: "This milestone represents the talent and dedication of the joint government, military and industry teams. With full F‑16 Block 70 fleets now produced, both nations move from planning for next‑generation airpower to demonstrating it in daily operations. This progress enhances NATO's collective readiness and provides commanders with reliable, interoperable 21st Century Security capability across the alliance."
The F-16 Block 70 model includes several upgrades such as the APG-83 AESA radar—which shares significant software and hardware commonality with the F-35 radar—conformal fuel tanks, a modern digital cockpit, a 12,000-hour service life, and an Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto GCAS). These features support a range of missions including air policing and joint exercises.
Bulgaria and Slovakia will also benefit from established training pipelines, logistics support systems, and a broad community of operators within Europe. There are currently more than 700 F-16s operating in Europe.
The program involves over 530 suppliers from 12 countries. European companies like LOTN in Slovakia and Avionams in Bulgaria contribute to this supply chain network. Final assembly takes place at Lockheed Martin’s Greenville facility—the only active F-16 production line worldwide—supporting more than 1,500 jobs in the United States.
Lockheed Martin emphasizes that this transatlantic partnership not only sustains U.S. manufacturing but also fosters economic value and long-term industrial participation across Europe by strengthening industrial cooperation among allied nations.
For further information about Lockheed Martin’s work or its technologies, visit www.Lockheedmartin.com.
