New contracts for RSK MIG could signal new versions (327 words)

Published: 3/7/2001

The Bulgarian Ministry of Defence has announced that it has had discussions with the Romanian authorities, to confirm the upgrade of its fleet of 18 MiG-29s (16 MiG-29N/2 MiG-29Us). Russian media reports suggest that RSK MIG attended the talks in Sofia. It is unclear whether Aerostar is offering the Bulgarians their Sniper upgrade, produced in cooperation with Elbit Systems and EADS. MiG declined any involvement in the programme, announced in May 2000. The primary motivation for Bulgaria's interest in the upgrade appears to be in the meeting of NATO standards ahead of joining the alliance. This has led to the inevitable speculation over the US offering the Bulgarians a package of F-16s, similar to that proposed recently in Hungary in an effort to keep Russian equipment suppliers out of NATO's inventory. RSK MiG has started the production of three MiG-29K and one MiG-29KUB, for the Indian Navy, as part of the reported 50 aircraft contract (recent statements by the Indians have suggested their initial demand is for only 24 of the $30-$35m aircraft). The commencement of the carrier-based aircraft production comes prior to the arrival of an Indian delegation in mid-March, which will discuss the handover of the carrier, Admiral Gorshkov, to the Indians. The aircraft will operate from this ship, reportedly equipped with KH-35 “ Kayak” anti-ship missiles. Media reports indicate that MiG is planning to develop the two-seat version of the navalised MiG-29KUB, as the MiG-29MRCA. This is to be offered to Malaysia and existing operators of the MiG-29. According to RSK MiG's Deputy General Designer, Andrey Karasev, Malaysia could possibly purchase 15 aircraft. As yet, it has not developed its technical requirements for the new aircraft, nor has any date been proffered for a procurement decision. Russia is however, offering a suggested upgrade package for the country's 18 MiG-29s, to bring it to the level of the MiG-29MRCA.

Article ID: 2397