Bulgaria seeks MiG-29 spare parts from Poland and Hungary

Defence Minister Dimitar Stoyanov has asked Poland and Hungary whether Bulgaria can obtain spare parts from their MiG-29 fighter jets, BTA reported.

Stoyanov said he had sent letters to both countries requesting information on their plans for the aircraft. Once replies are received, the Defence Ministry will send experts to assess the condition of the equipment and whether the spare parts can be used.

The parts are needed to keep Bulgaria's MiG-29 fleet operational and ensure the uninterrupted air policing mission at Graf Ignatievo Air Base, which has been maintained continuously since 1952, Stoyanov said.

He added that he had also held talks on acquiring second-hand F-16 fighter jets, saying Bulgaria must be able to protect its own airspace with its own aircraft and pilots.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova