The Slovak government is slated to discuss a sensitive issue at its March 15 session: the potential transfer of MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine. The topic was reported by the television channel TA3, which noted the government’s readiness to examine the proposal in the wake of evolving security concerns in the region.
According to official statements, the discussion will cover whether Slovakia should participate in providing military aid through aircraft assets. The government is expected to weigh the implications of such a move, including how it would align with Slovakia’s defense posture and international commitments. The dialogue reflects a broader pattern of allied support and a willingness to reassess military capabilities in response to Russia’s actions in neighboring areas (TA3).
Another key participant at the ministerial and cabinet level will be Daniel Zmeko, the Chief of Staff of the Slovak Army, who is set to attend the government meeting. His presence signals a formal review of the strategic and logistical aspects of any potential transfer, including maintenance, training, and operational readiness for any aircraft that might depart Slovakia.
As of early March, reports indicated Slovakia might consider handing over ten of the eleven Soviet-era MiG-29 fighters currently held in the country. The plan contemplates leaving one aircraft in Slovakia as a museum exhibit, preserving a slice of the nation’s aviation history while contributing to allied efforts elsewhere. The move would represent a significant shift in the use of legacy airframes and would necessitate careful assessment of safety, interoperability, and long-term security implications for the partner nation.
Defence officials have emphasized that the MiG-29s, while aging, still carry potential strategic value in certain contexts. They also noted that the decision to transfer would be made in the coming weeks, after a thorough review process and consultations with international allies. The overall cost of Slovakia’s military support to Ukraine has been estimated at around 179 million dollars, with an additional 87 million dollars transferred to Kyiv via European Union funding channels. These figures illustrate the financial footprint of defense aid within the broader framework of regional security and solidarity among member states (TA3).