August 24, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. Advisor to Support Ministry of Defense with F-16 Implementation
The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce the arrival of a U.S. funded, F-16 Program Advisor at the Bulgarian Ministry of Defense. The advisor will assist the Bulgarian Ministry of Defense and the Bulgarian Air Force in implementing its F-16 acquisition program focusing on policy, planning, logistics, maintenance, sustainment, and enhancing NATO interoperability.
The advisor is part of the U.S. Department of Defense’s Ministry of Defense Advisors (MoDA) program, which provides government civilian experts to partner nations to strengthen their defense institutions and capabilities. The MoDA program is managed by the Institute for Security Governance (ISG), a component of the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
The United States and Bulgaria have a strong and enduring security partnership both bilaterally and as NATO Allies. The United States supports Bulgaria’s defense modernization efforts, including its purchase of a full squadron of F-16 C/D Block 70 aircraft and related equipment that will enhance Bulgaria’s air defense, deterrence, and regional stability.
The United States also provides security assistance to Bulgaria through various programs, such as Foreign Military Financing (FMF) and International Military Education and Training (IMET). Over the last five years, the United States has provided more than $238 million in security assistance to Bulgaria.
The U.S. government values our strategic partnership with Bulgaria and looks forward to working with the Bulgarian Ministry of Defense, including through the F-16 advisor program, to advance our shared security and deepen our bilateral cooperation.
