'Sorry! F-16s are now prioritized for delivery to Taiwan!' Bulgaria's delivery delayed until 2030

Taiwan has become the top priority for F-16 V Block 70 fighter jet deliveries, leading to a significant delay for Bulgaria's subsequent order. Lockheed Martin is reallocating production capacity at its Greenville, South Carolina facility to expedite Taiwan's acquisition of 66 new aircraft, positioning Taiwan as the largest single customer for the production line.

Bulgaria's defense ministry confirmed that the delivery of its second batch of eight F-16 Block 70 jets, originally scheduled for 2027, has been postponed to the second quarter of 2030. This delay, lasting two and a half years, creates a substantial gap in Bulgaria's fighter jet modernization program, prompting the nation to explore acquiring used aircraft from other countries.

This prioritization is attributed to the early and substantial nature of Taiwan's "Phoenix Project" order, initiated in 2020. With 66 aircraft on order, Taiwan's demand has driven Lockheed Martin to operate the production line on a two-shift, 20-hour daily schedule. The company is focusing its efforts on fulfilling Taiwan's requirements before proceeding with other international orders.

The first two F-16 V jets for Taiwan, bearing tail numbers 6727 and 6728, have already departed the U.S. for a long-distance trans-Pacific flight. These aircraft are expected to arrive at Taitung Zhihang Air Base soon, where they will be received by the Air Force's 7th Tactical Fighter Wing. While the full delivery of all 66 aircraft may extend to late 2028, the U.S. has committed to accelerating production to meet Taiwan's defense needs.