The Slovak government is weighing a U.S. proposal that would replace the country’s MiG-29 fighter jets bound for Ukraine with a package of advanced American airpower. Washington would supply 12 Bell AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and more than 500 AGM-114 Hellfire missiles in exchange for the transfer of Slovakia’s MiG-29s to Ukraine, according to statements given to reporters and reported by TASS. The offer also includes training for Slovak pilots and maintenance crews, ensuring the fleet can be operated and serviced effectively from day one.
Officials indicate the total value of the package sits around 340 million euros, covering the weapons, support equipment, and the training program. Bratislava plans a careful, thorough review of the proposal in the near future, evaluating how the transfer aligns with national security objectives, alliance commitments, and Slovakia’s defense modernization path. The government is expected to discuss the deal in the upcoming sessions, weighing strategic benefits against potential risks or political considerations.
Former Deputy Head of the Slovak Ministry of Defense, Jaroslav Nagy, confirmed that Ukrainian experts have arrived to examine the MiG-29 aircraft that Slovakia would hand over. Their visit signals close cooperation with Kyiv on the logistical and technical aspects of the transfer, including timelines for delivery. Nagy noted that Ukrainian technicians have stayed in Slovakia for several days to assess the condition of the jets and to determine what spare parts and additional components will be required to ensure the MiGs are ready for deployment to Ukraine in the weeks ahead.
In the review process, Slovak authorities will consider the readiness of the MiG-29s for immediate export, the compatibility of the American helicopters with regional defense needs, and the implications for NATO interoperability. The presence of Ukrainian specialists suggests a parallel planning track aimed at streamlining the handover, with emphasis on ensuring the jets can be integrated into Ukrainian air operations without delay and with a full complement of necessary parts and tooling. The overall assessment will factor in training commitments, maintenance infrastructure, and the long-term impact on Slovakia’s defense posture.
As the situation evolves, defense observers note that the arrangement would mark a significant shift in regional arms coordination, balancing bilateral support for Ukraine with the modernization ambitions of Slovakia’s own armed forces. The discussions reflect ongoing efforts among partner nations to adapt military capabilities in response to evolving security requirements, while maintaining transparent oversight of how and when any platform transfers occur across borders.