Slovakia’s ageing MiG-29’s are set to be replaced with new Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets, according to Slovak Defence Minister Martin Glváč. The new fighter jets are most likely to be leased from Sweden, reports the SME daily with Bratislava and Prague reportedly discussing the establishment of a joint squadron, should the lease go ahead.
Glváč explained the most likely scenario would be for Slovakia to follow the example of neighbouring Czech Republic, which has been leasing fighters for its armed forces. The Defence Ministry will most likely select the supplier of the aircraft through “an international contest”, Glváč said. From 2004 through to 2014, the Czech Republic is expected to pay 19.6 billion Czech crowns (€714 million) for the lease of 14 fighters with Prague reportedly planning to extend the contract until 2029. If Slovakia decides to lease between six and eight fighters themselves for the next 15 years the cost is expected to be about €250 million according to the SME daily.
