Bulgaria expects the second batch of eight F-16 fighter jets before 2030, defence minister Dimitar Stoyanov told reporters.

This follows our earlier story on president Iliana Yotova laying a wreath at the Airman's Monument in Sofia on 16 October, Aviation Day and the day of the Bulgarian Air Force.

Stoyanov spoke at the ceremony of wreaths and flowers at the monument. Bulgaria has already received the first eight jets. The minister hopes the next batch will be delivered faster and arrive as early as possible.

The new equipment brings new difficulties. "New equipment is coming, new challenges, and they have to be overcome," the minister added.

The three-coordinate radars are due in 2028. The first surface-to-air missile systems are also expected, but no date has been given for them.