by Kelci O’Donnell, originally posted 1/31/2025 by WSPA
GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA) – The United States is strengthening the defense corporation of one of our allies with new fighter jets.
Officials said it’s one of the latest lines of defense, the F-16 Block 70, manufactured in Greenville. For the first time in history, it will soon occupy the sky in the Republic of Bulgaria.
The F-16 is one of the most iconic fighters in history, symbolizing enduring partnerships, industrial collaboration, and security over the past 50 years, according to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.
“That’s the sound of freedom,” test and lead production pilot for Lockheed Martin, Chris Nations said, while candidly speaking about the jets’ loud sonic booms.
That sound of freedom is marking a significant milestone for the United States.
“We’re grateful for Bulgaria’s partnership in this endeavor and its commitment to long-term defense plans,” said Maj. Gen. Ricky Mills, Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs.
On Friday, the first F-16 Block 70 fighter jet that will be sent to Bulgaria was unveiled at the Donaldson Center.
Air Force leaders said it’s a more than $2 billion investment that came to fruition through the efforts of members of the U.S. government, representatives from Bulgaria, South Carolina elected officials, and Lockheed Martin employees.
According to the manufacturing company, the first Bulgarian F-16 Block 70 took flight on October 22 around 9:30 a.m. EDT at Lockheed Martin’s production facility in Greenville. It was officially unveiled three months later.
Bulgaria is the second European country to receive the fighter jet, according to a Lockheed Martin press release.
“We do not want war with our adversaries abroad, but we will not shy away from it,” said Rep. William Timmons, who represents South Carolina’s 4th congressional district. “We will be ready. Your investment in F-16s makes you ready.”
“We have assets all across the company and across the U.S. government making sure that the Bulgarian Air Force is able to use the F-16 to its utmost ability,” said Nations.
Chris “Sasquach” Nations began his 20-year Air Force career on an F-16 fighter jet. He’s now playing a key role in testing and training the next generation at Lockheed Martin.
Lockheed Martin is home to the production of the state-of-the-art military aircraft, the latest of which will modernize Bulgaria’s fleet.
“It’s way more capable. It flies faster. It’s more deadly,” said Maj. Myyah Lockhart, Tennessee State Partnership Program Director with Bulgaria. “You’ve got air policing missions that need to be flown out over the Black Sea region. To have this aircraft in their inventory puts them at the top tier of fighter air superiority.”
With this contribution, South Carolina is making a difference across the globe to enhance defense and security.
“Seeing those young men and women who are here at Lockheed Martin building those plans and the amazing amount of pride that they take, knowing that they are building these aircraft to keep our allies safe all over the globe, I love to talk about South Carolina’s fingerprints,” said South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette. “South Carolina’s fingerprints are across the globe.”
Lockheed Martin leaders said 16 fighter jets will be shipped to Bulgaria. The first eight should be in operation by the end of the year.
“We look forward to many more years of partnering with them in military efforts,” added Lockhart.