The first combat duty of the F16 will be next year. This was announced by the Chief of Defense Admiral Emil Evtimov during an exercise at the Koren military training ground. As of yesterday, Bulgaria already has two such aircraft.
The exercise was attended by 1,700 servicemen and 350 units of combat equipment. The Third Mechanized Battalion of the 61st Stryamska Mechanized Brigade also took part in the demonstration, as well as ground troops from Italy, Romania and the USA.
During the demonstration, Admiral Evtimov commented that our first F16 will begin its combat duty next year. The goal is for our country to receive all the expected eight aircraft by the end of the year. According to Admiral Evtimov, the process is on schedule and our country has enough pilots.
Yesterday, Admiral Emil Evtimov personally welcomed the second F16 aircraft at the Graf Ignatievo base.
"The aircraft landed and was serviced and secured by Bulgarian technicians. This gives me confidence that the process is progressing and the team is accumulating knowledge. We are working together with our American colleagues, but all the processes for servicing the aircraft are carried out by our engineering and technical staff. The goal is this year to accept all eight aircraft, documentary and administrative, to enter the ranks of the Bulgarian army and be put into operation," Admiral Evtimov indicated.