Report: US Purchases 81 Soviet Fighter Jets from Russian Ally at $19K Each

The US has made a significant purchase of 81 Soviet-era combat aircraft from Kazakhstan, as reported by the Kyiv Post. This move comes as Kazakhstan, historically aligned with Russia, is increasingly engaging with Western nations.

The auction in Kazakhstan included a variety of fighter and bomber aircraft, such as MiG-31 interceptors, MiG-27 fighter bombers, MiG-29 fighters, and Su-24 bombers dating back to the 1970s and 1980s. The sale was valued at one billion Kazakhstani tenge, equivalent to $2.26 million, with each plane averaging a cost of $19,300.

The purpose behind the US acquisition of these outdated warplanes remains undisclosed, but speculation suggests they could be used in Ukraine, where similar aircraft are still in service. The sale was facilitated through offshore companies, according to Reporter, a Russian English language news site.

Kazakhstan’s decision to upgrade its military capabilities aligns with its growing engagement with Western nations, marking a shift away from its historical ties with Moscow. This move has drawn criticism from some in Russia, with suggestions that Kazakhstan could be the next target following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Kazakhstan in March 2023 emphasized US support for the country’s independence and territorial integrity. As Kazakhstan navigates geopolitical challenges posed by neighboring countries like Russia and China, agreements on various sectors reflect the deepening ties between Kazakhstan and Western nations.