Spare parts for a MiG-29 stolen from a military airfield in Hungary
15 August 21:44
At the military airfield in the city of Kecskemet, unknown persons stole spare parts from decommissioned MiG-29 fighters. The incident occurred about two weeks ago, according to Hungarian media outlets Blick and Telex, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
What exactly was stolen?
- The thieves entered the airfield by cutting the wire fence.
- They stole parts located behind the nose cone of the aircraft, including locator components of high technical value.
Investigation
- The police confirmed the opening of criminal proceedings, but did not disclose details “in the interests of the investigation”.
- The Hungarian Ministry of Defense also refrained from commenting.
History of the aircraft
- In 1993, Hungary received 28 MiG-29 fighter jets from Russia as a payment for its national debt.
- In 2010, these aircraft were decommissioned and replaced by Swedish JAS 39 Gripen.
- In 2019, the Hungarian State Property Management Service tried to sell 19 MiG-29s, but no offers were received.
The incident raises concerns about the security of military facilities and the possible illegal use of stolen technology.
Main characteristics of the MiG-29
The MiG-29 is a fourth-generation Soviet frontline fighter designed to gain air superiority and strike ground targets.
Its key parameters:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 11,36 м |
| Length | 17,32 м |
| Height | 4,73 м |
| Weight (empty) | 10,9 т |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 18,1 т |
| Flight range | 1 430 km |
| Practical ceiling | 18 km |
| Combat radius | 700 km |
| Cruising speed | 2,450 km/h at an altitude of 13 km |
| Crew size | 1-2 persons |
| Armament | gS-30-1 cannon (150 rounds) |
Spare parts for the MiG-29 are critical for several reasons:
- Operational readiness: Thanks to the availability of spare parts, the Ukrainian Air Force can quickly repair and maintain the aircraft, keeping them in combat condition.
- Preservation of the Soviet aircraft fleet: Ukraine still operates MiG-29s, and without spare parts, these fighters would quickly fail.
- High combat effectiveness: The MiG-29 is capable of performing complex combat missions, including interceptions, air-to-air combat, and strikes on ground targets.
- Modernization: Ukraine is already modernizing the MiG-29 with the participation of foreign companies, which allows for the integration of modern avionics, communications and weapons systems.
