Slovakia has effectively transferred its remaining MiG-29 Fulcrum fighter jets to Ukraine to support Ukraine’s defense against Russia. The country’s Ministry of Defense confirmed that all 13 fighter jets had been delivered to Ukraine, and the logistics operation was challenging but successful.
The transportation of the equipment was done by road, and security measures were highly maintained throughout the process. In coordination with Ukraine, Poland, and other allies, Slovakia had already disclosed the handing-over plan of the fighter jets. This recent transfer of 9 MiG-29s is an addition to the initial four jets that Ukrainian pilots flew to Ukraine in March 2023.
As part of the agreement, Slovakia will receive $900m compensation, and the Ukrainian Armed Forces will also be provided with two Kub anti-aircraft missile systems, ammunition, and a control system. To replace Slovakia’s aging fleet of MiG-29s, Lockheed Martin has been awarded a contract to provide modern multirole fighters.
The donation of the MiG-29 Fulcrums to Ukraine shows Slovakia’s support for Ukraine in safeguarding the lives of its citizens and defending against Russia’s military aggression. The Chief of General Staff for the Slovak Republic Armed Forces confirmed that the MiG-29 fighters were no longer necessary for the requirements of the Slovak Armed Forces. The planes, which were last modernized in 1996, had a high failure rate, and the availability of spare parts, components, and ammunition was another significant problem.
Slovakia’s defense spending will increase gradually from 2023 to 2027, culminating in a peak of $3.6bn in 2026 and is attributed to several planned procurements, including a new fleet of CV90 infantry fighting vehicles and main battle tanks.