Bulgaria eyes F-16 fighters; Russian MiG-29s can stay operational only till 2023

NATO member Bulgaria recently approved a $1.3 Billion deal for 8 more F-16 fighters. The Bulgarian fleet of MiG-29 & MiG-29UB jets can remain operational until mid-2023. The fleet had been maintained by the Russian plane-maker, which ensured spares & support. Critical fighter upkeep support gone, NATO member Bulgaria joined anti-Russia chorus. Sofia staring at impending lack of capability to be part of NATO air policing missions.