Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic plans to procure fourteen F-16 Block 70/72 fighter jets from the United States, said an announcement on 11 July.

The Slovak Ministry of Defence announced on 11 July plans to procure 14 F-16 Block 70/72fighter jets for replacing of Soviet-made MiG-29s that Slovakia’s Air Forces uses now.

“Based on thorough analyzes, we have chosen the best solution because they are state-of-the-art modern aircraft that have no competition in terms of price, quality and capabilities, and what we can afford as a country,” said Slovak Defence Minister Peter Gajdos.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Slovak Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini also said that government will pay USD1.86 billion for the aircraft, ammunition, training of pilots and logistics services for two years.

The F-16 Block 70/72 is a is the newest and most advanced F-16 production configuration, combining numerous capability and structural upgrades developed by Lockheed Martin.

According to the company, the Block 70/72 builds on its thousands of predecessors and proven combat experience, while also bringing new technology to the forefront.

With improved radar systems, advanced weapons capabilities and enhanced battlespace awareness, the aircraft advances its strong, combat-proven legacy and goes beyond – to meet needs for tomorrow.