We are sending well-trained young people to learn how to work with new military equipment which is the future of Bulgaria’s aviation, Bulgaria’s Minister of Defense Krasimir Karakachanov said at a meeting with the four Bulgarian pilots who are departing for the USA to train how to fly the new F-16 fighter jets. Major Stoyan Petkov, Captain Alexander Velinov, Captain Todor Todorov and Senior Lieutenant Simeon Georgiev from Graf Ignatievo Air Base had already undergone specializations in the USA. Minister Karakachanov gave the four pilots small icons of St. George the Victor to protect them and give them strength and confidence. Bulgaria’s Chief of Defense Admiral Emil Eftimov also wished good luck to the first group of Bulgarian pilots departing for training in the USA, which will last for over 3 years.