site.btaAgreement on Maintenance of MiG-29 Fighters Signed with Russia's RSK MiG

Sofia, March 21 (BTA) - A framework agreement on integrated logistics support of MiG-29 aircraft was signed with Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG (RSK MiG) on Wednesday after all deadlines for appeals against the procurement procedure expired, the Defence Ministry said. 

Under the agreement worth 81 million leva, the Russian company will provide spare parts and services. Parts will be replaced by Bulgarian engineers at Graf Ignatievo air base.

This will ensure the maintenance and repairs of 12 combat and three combat training MiG-29 aircraft for four years. This restores the airworthiness of the aircraft of the Bulgarian Air Force and guarantees their operation, including performance of air policing tasks.

The agreement will not cancel or delay the procedure for the acquisition of a new type of fighter aircraft, which is at an advanced stage and is expected to be introduced in Parliament by the end of April, the Defence Ministry said.