The Provisional Government of Bulgaria is going to abandon the use of Russian combat aircraft. This solution is provided by the concept of “Bulgaria in NATO – 2020″, according to the Bulgarian newspaper “Trud».
According to this plan, the priority will be investing in a new type of combat aircraft, modernization of the Belgian frigates, the creation of the battalion combat teams, the acquisition of new 3D-radar unit and patrol boat.
The interim government of George Bliznashki already decided that 2020 “will remain on the ground” all Russian fighter jets and helicopters. It is about 15 MiG-29, MiG-21, six and 14 SU-25 bombers.
Defense Minister Velizar Shalamanov motivated the government’s decision that the country should become independent of Russia.
Instead of Russian aircraft Bulgaria intends to purchase eight new fighters. This, according to Shalamanova need 600 million lev. Publishing experts emphasize that the money could buy three new European Eurofighter Typhoon fighter aircraft worth 100 million euros each, or buy for that amount used American F-16 fighters.
It is not clear how the negotiations will take place on used F-16s. In 2013, Bulgaria would buy them back from Portugal, the newspaper reminds. There are at least two options – directly through the Government of the United States or in Greece, which bought new aircraft and is ready to get rid of old machines.
Within six months, the Ministry of Defence should be decide on the purchase of new fighter jets. Subsequently, the government will present its proposals to the Parliament.
The publication notes that, in connection with the rejection of Russian military aircraft without work there are about 300 military pilots and engineers.
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