Hungarian Retired Fighter Jet to Bolster Serbian Air Force
Serbia Purchases MiG-29 Fighter Jet from Hungary
Serbia has recently acquired a MiG-29 fighter jet from Hungary, in a defense deal between the two neighboring countries. This marks another step in the military cooperation between Hungary and Serbia, with the possibility of more aircraft purchases in the future.
The Serbian Air Force and Air Defense Force welcomed their fifteenth fighter jet in the summer of 2024, expanding their fleet with this new acquisition. The purchased MiG-29 aircraft is identical to the former Yugoslav People’s Army fighter aircraft and is expected to function as a parts donor for the Serbian military.
According to Nenad Miloradovic, Serbia’s deputy defense minister, the purchase of the MiG-29 is part of a broader acquisition of various equipment from Hungary on favorable terms. This demonstrates the ongoing collaboration between the two countries in defense matters, with the potential for further aircraft purchases in the pipeline.
The MiG-29 aircraft in question was previously used to reinforce Hungary’s Bumblebee Squadron. While Hungary has transitioned to the Gripen aircraft in active service since 2009, the remaining MiG-29s have been placed in reserve. Efforts to sell these aircraft have been ongoing, with limited success due to their prolonged period of non-operation.
The recent purchase of the MiG-29 by Serbia follows a trend of defense deals between the two countries, with previous acquisitions including armored infantry fighting vehicles. This latest transaction underscores the strengthening ties between Hungary and Serbia in the realm of defense cooperation.
As both countries continue to bolster their defense capabilities, the collaboration on military equipment and aircraft acquisitions serves to enhance their mutual security interests. The future may see additional exchanges and purchases between Hungary and Serbia, further solidifying their partnership in defense matters.
