Kazakhstan's cold shoulder to Moscow: Selling Soviet-era jets to the US

Russian and Ukrainian media report that Kazakhstan has sold up to 81 military aircraft from the USSR era. The transaction allegedly involves the United States, sparking concerns among Russians that the aircraft might ultimately be headed for Ukraine. This article delves into the specifics of these aircraft and why their transfer would represent a significant setback for the Kremlin.

Lately, there has been a noticeable shift away from military dealings with Russia. Interestingly, countries that have been considered staunch allies of the Kremlin for years are now turning away. India is moving towards Western weaponry and bolstering its own production despite being the world's largest arms importer, and Serbia recently announced its intention to acquire French Rafale fighters. Reports suggest Astana may have already sold 81 Soviet-era aircraft to the USA through offshore companies, and it's speculated that these planes could end up in Ukraine.

Kazakhstan, a close ally of Russia and a member of pro-Russian integration structures such as the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), has recently seen cooling relations with Moscow. However, the significant move of selling a large portion of Soviet-era military equipment is unprecedented.

It is believed Kazakhstan aimed to sell primarily MiG-27 and MiG-29 fighters and Su-24 bombers. These aircraft are thought to be in poor technical condition and unsuitable for service.

However, in collaboration with the Ukrainians, the Americans are reportedly keen on such "opportunities" to refurbish older aircraft. The Ukrainians have demonstrated their ability to repurpose what some might consider scrap. There has been significant discussion about Su-25 aircraft from North Macedonia and earlier about American attempts to acquire Soviet-era equipment from Ecuador. Reports of these aircraft being in poor condition often surface to facilitate such transactions.

Both factions extensively utilize MiG-27 and MiG-29 fighters and Su-24 bombers in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite their age, they continue to offer substantial capabilities.

The West finds the prospect of enhancing Ukraine's air force with additional Su-24s particularly compelling. Łukasz Michalik, a journalist from Wirtualna Polska, notes that the Su-24 is the most formidable aircraft in the Ukrainian air force. First flown in July 1967, this bomber stretches over 22 meters long with a wingspan of approximately 17 meters. Two AL-21F-3 turbojet engines power it and can reach altitudes of up to 18,500 meters.

Featuring variable-geometry wings, it can be armed with a variety of weapons. Specifically, Su-24s have been modified by Ukrainians to deploy long-range cruising missiles Storm Shadow and SCALP-EG, supplied by the UK and France, respectively.