Azerbaijan May Have Provided Fighter Jets to Ukraine - A Local Viewpoint for Kaunas Residents
Recent reports suggest Ukraine may have bolstered its air force with MiG-29 fighter jets potentially sourced from Azerbaijan. Teh information, published by The War Zone, highlights a photograph circulating on social media depicting a Ukrainian Air Force MiG-29 bearing a camouflage pattern specific to Azerbaijan.
While the exact date and location of the photograph remain unkown, the aircraft appears fully armed for combat, carrying both mid-range R-27 (AA-10 Alamo) and short-range R-73 (AA-11 Archer) air-to-air missiles. The War zone acknowledges the possibility of the image being fabricated, but currently finds no evidence to support that claim.
Previously, unconfirmed reports indicated that some Azerbaijani MiG-29s may have been transferred to Ukraine or entered its arsenal. These reports gained traction in the summer of 2022 when images surfaced on Twitter showing three Azerbaijani fighter jets at the Lviv Aviation Repair Factory in Ukraine.It is believed these aircraft remained in Ukraine following the Russian invasion and were later taken under Ukrainian control.The Lviv Aviation Repair Factory, a crucial facility for MiG-29 maintenance, was targeted by a Russian attack in March 2022. Satellite imagery confirmed significant damage, including the destruction of a large hangar.The factory was a key service center not only for the Ukrainian Air Force but also for international clients, including Azerbaijan.
Alongside the reports of Azerbaijani assistance, speculation has also circulated regarding potential fighter jet deliveries from Hungary, a country whose leader is perceived as pro-Russian.
Simultaneously occurring, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that members of the international coalition supporting Ukraine are prepared to supply long-range missiles. He suggested that recent Russian strikes against Ukraine were intended to disrupt negotiations and justify increased military aid, stating, “Ready to help – there is nothing wrong, even if these decisions are not always officially announced.”
This potential support from Azerbaijan, alongside continued aid from other nations, underscores the ongoing international effort to assist Ukraine in defending its sovereignty.While the full extent of Azerbaijan’s contribution remains unconfirmed, the reports offer a glimpse into the complex network of support Ukraine is receiving.
