Russia's unsold jets may head to North Korea for support
Russia is "stuck" with MiG-29SMT fighters that it failed to sell to Algeria. Analysts from the Ukrainian portal Defense Express now suggest that these aircraft might end up in North Korea in exchange for military support.
10:12 AM EST, December 13, 2024
Russia attempted to sell MiG-29SMT fighters to Algeria; however, the deal collapsed due to the poor technical condition of the aircraft. Algeria returned the first batch of 15 planes in 2006. These machines are currently stored at the 513th repair facility near Kursk, presenting a dilemma for Russia regarding their potential use.
Possible scenarios for MiG-29SMT
Initially, Algeria had ordered the MiG-29SMT but quickly withdrew from the purchase. Russia failed to find new buyers for these aircraft, which even the Russian Ministry of Defense showed no interest in. Consequently, they remain in storage, and their future is uncertain. Defense Express notes that this situation might be linked to Russia's war against Ukraine.
According to the Ukrainian portal, Russia might consider providing these aircraft, which "do not meet standards," to North Korea in exchange for military support. This decision would align with Russia's past practices of supplying sub-standard equipment to its allies. A similar instance is the transfer of Su-35S aircraft to Iran from an unfulfilled contract with Egypt.
Political and military background
The MiG-29SMT planes were originally intended for Algeria, but due to technical issues, Algeria canceled the deal, and the aircraft were returned to Russia. Russia now faces the challenge of finding a new buyer or utilizing the aircraft for its own purposes.
In the political arena, the military exchange between Russia and North Korea is intensifying. Pyongyang is signing protocols with Moscow to boost economic cooperation, and clandestine military transfers are believed to be occurring, although specific details remain undisclosed.
Due to sanctions, Russia is exploring alternative avenues for cooperation. North Korea is starting to supply Russia with weapons, including artillery, which is causing international concern.
To clarify, the MiG-29SMT aircraft differ from earlier versions by incorporating a new radar and improved avionics. Additionally, the SMT variant features an upgraded cockpit with three multifunction displays and a head-up display (HUD) that provides navigation system information, among other things.
