Could These Vintage Warplanes Shift the Balance of Power in Eastern Europe?

Image Credit: Air Recognition

The United States has acquired a fleet of 81 outdated Soviet-era combat aircraft from Kazakhstan, a move reported by the Kyiv Post. Kazakhstan, in its efforts to modernize its air fleet, recently auctioned off a total of 117 Soviet-era fighter and bomber aircraft, including MiG-31 interceptors, MiG-27 fighter bombers, MiG-29 fighters, and Su-24 bombers dating back to the 1970s and 1980s.

The reported sale value for the entire fleet was approximately one billion Kazakhstani tenge, equivalent to $2.26 million, translating to an average cost of $19,300 per aircraft. According to insights from the Ukrainian Telegram channel Insider UA, cited by the Kyiv Post, the United States secured 81 of these aging warplanes.

While the motive behind this acquisition remains undisclosed, speculations arise regarding potential utilization in Ukraine, where similar aircraft are currently in service. The sale, facilitated through offshore companies as reported by the Russian English-language news site Reporter, raises questions about the intended purpose of these aircraft.

Given Ukraine’s ongoing reliance on Soviet-era weaponry, the acquired aircraft could serve as a valuable source of spare parts to maintain existing fleets. Additionally, they might be strategically deployed as decoys at airfields, enhancing defensive capabilities in the region, as suggested by the Kyiv Post.

Among the aircraft acquired, the Mikoyan MiG-31 stands out as a supersonic interceptor with a significant role in defending Soviet airspace during the Cold War era. The MiG-27, derived from the MiG-23, served as a ground-attack aircraft and saw action in conflicts such as the Soviet-Afghan War. The MiG-29, renowned for its prowess in air-to-air combat, remains operational in various air forces worldwide. Similarly, the Su-24, an all-weather tactical bomber, continues to serve in multiple air forces, including the Russian Aerospace Forces and the Ukrainian Air Force.

Kazakhstan, a former Soviet Union member, has historically maintained close ties with Russia. However, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Kazakhstan has displayed a shift in alignment towards the West, drawing ire from some quarters in Russia. This acquisition of Soviet-era aircraft coincides with Kazakhstan’s efforts to upgrade its military capabilities while establishing stronger relations with Western nations.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Kazakhstan in March 2023 underscored the United States’ support for the country’s independence and territorial integrity. Despite suggestions from Russian propagandists about Kazakhstan being the next potential problem area, agreements on various fronts, including trade, education, environment, and mineral supplies, reflect the deepening ties between Kazakhstan and Western nations.

The acquisition of these Soviet-era combat aircraft marks a significant development in the regional dynamics, signaling a strategic move by the United States amidst evolving geopolitical challenges in the region.

This story was originally featured on Business Insider