News of a deal between Bangladesh and Russia for eight MiG-29s raises more questions than answers

Published: 7/16/1999

Preliminary reports suggest that a deal may have been struck between the Bangladesh government and Russia for the delivery of eight MiG-29s, in a contract valued at $115m. This strikes Concise as a curious development. Bangladesh is one of the poorest countries in the world. Its total military defence budget for 1999/2000 is quoted as being $630m. This is a hugely disproportionate expense. In addition, the purchase of such highly sophisticated aircraft seems questionable, given that there are no immediate strategic threats in the region. Small wonder then, that a report in Vremya recorded that the parliamentary opposition was strongly critical of the deal, which was announced by the Finance Minister, during a debate on the defence budget. Rosvooruzheniye has said that it is not involved in the contract. VPK MAPO has confirmed its participation in the deal and added that further information would be provided shortly. It will be interesting to learn more about the nature of the deal, particularly how payment has been arranged. Is MAPO so desperate for cash that it will negotiate a deal on almost any terms?

Article ID: 684