Slovakia to replace Mig29s with Swedish JAS39

Slovakia is considering ordering Swedish JAS-39 Gripen jets to replace its fleet of Russian MiG-29s, local media reported Wednesday.

Although U.S. F-16 remains an option, the Slovak Defense Ministry appears to be inclined toward Gripen, because the European jet is cheaper and less demanding in maintenance, said the SME newspaper.

Another factor favoring Gripen is Slovakia's plan to create a joint squadron with the neighboring Czech Republic, which has rented 14 Gripens for nine years and is preparing to extend the contract, it said.

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