Russia's unsold MiG‑29s could find a new home in North Korea
Russia is "stuck" with MiG-29SMT fighters it failed to sell to Algeria. Analysts from the Ukrainian portal Defense Express now suggest these aircraft might end up in North Korea in exchange for military support.
Russia attempted to sell MiG-29SMT fighters to Algeria; however, the deal could not be finalised due to the poor technical condition of the aircraft. Algeria returned the first batch of 15 planes back in 2006. Currently, these aircraft are stationed at the 513th repair facility near Kursk, which poses a dilemma for Russia regarding their further use.
Possible scenarios for MiG-29SMT
Initially, Algeria ordered the MiG-29SMT but quickly backed out of the purchase. Russia couldn't find new buyers for these machines, which did not even attract the interest of the Russian Ministry of Defence. As a result, these aircraft remain in storage, and their future is uncertain. Defense Express highlights that this situation might be linked to Russia's war against Ukraine.
According to the Ukrainian portal, Russia might consider handing over these aircraft, which "do not meet standards," to North Korea in exchange for military support. Such a decision would align with Russia's past practices of supplying sub-standard equipment to its allies. An example is the transfer of Su-35S aircraft to Iran from an unfulfilled contract with Egypt.
Political and military background
The MiG-29SMT fighters were originally intended for Algeria, but due to technical problems, Algeria cancelled the deal, and the aircraft returned to Russia. Russia then had to find a new buyer or use the aircraft for its own needs.
In the political context, intensive military exchange between Russia and North Korea is gaining momentum. Pyongyang is establishing protocols with Moscow to boost economic cooperation, and military transfers are occurring behind the scenes, although details remain secret.
Due to sanctions, Russia is seeking alternative routes for collaboration. North Korea is beginning to supply Russia with weapons, including artillery. This cooperation is causing international controversy.
It is worth noting that the MiG-29SMT aircraft differ from previous versions with the inclusion of a new radar and improved avionics. Furthermore, the manufacturer of the SMT variant implemented an enhanced cockpit with three multifunction displays and a HUD that presents, among other things, the navigation system.
