The Slovak Deputy Minister of Defense, Yaroslav Nagy, confirmed that an intergovernmental accord was reached concerning the transfer of 13 MiG-29 fighter jets from Slovakia to Ukraine. The agreement also covers two air defense systems designed to counter aerial threats, marking a notable step in Slovakia’s support for Kyiv amid ongoing regional security discussions. The information was reported by the Slovak press agency TASR, which noted the formal nature of the deal and the government’s role in facilitating the transfer.
Nagy clarified that the arrangement is tied to a financial arrangement where Slovakia would seek compensation estimated at around $900 million. He explained that the handover of the MiG-29 aircraft to Ukraine would occur over a span of several weeks, as negotiations with Kyiv and its allies continue to shape the broader framework of support. The Deputy Minister emphasized that the talks involve not only the immediate transfer but also the long-term alignment of defense commitments among Slovakia, Ukraine, and their international partners.
In Bratislava, officials rejected any notion of a unilateral move and stressed that the transfer is part of a coordinated international effort. The Slovak Foreign Ministry and the Defense Ministry indicated that the discussion remains focused on ensuring that the transfer adheres to international law and the bilateral agreements governing such exchanges. The government asserted that all steps are conducted transparently within the framework of allied planning and, where appropriate, with proper oversight from relevant authorities.
Yuriy Ignat, the spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force Command, expressed a cautious view regarding the value of the MiG-29 aircraft in the current battlefield environment. He noted that while the planes are a significant symbol of support and provide meaningful air defense capabilities, some observers question their effectiveness against modern cruise missiles and drone capabilities. Ignat acknowledged that coalition air operations rely on a diverse mix of platforms and technologies, and highlighted that ongoing upgrades and interoperability with allied forces are essential to maximizing the utility of any transfer.