The sources said Rosoboronexport had sought to sell advanced
fighter-jets to the Middle East. One platform was identified as the Su-30K,
sold to Algeria and marketed to other states in the region, Middle East Newsline reported.
Russia's Irkut, which manufactures the Su-30, has been stuck with 18
combat jets after India refused delivery. The Sukhois were transferred
to Belarus at $15 million per aircraft after other countries, including
clients in the Middle East, failed to show interest.
"To buy a heavy fighter for $15 million is a real bargain,"Russian
Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies director Ruslan Pukhov
said.
The Russian business daily Kommersant described the Su-30s as being more
than 15 years old and in need of an upgrade. Kommersant said Belarus was the
most likely client, although industry sources did not rule out that the
former Soviet republic would seek to export the aircraft.
The sources said Sudan and Syria have also sought to enhance their
MiG-29 fighter-jet fleet. They said Rosoboronexport has ruled out major
sales to either country as well as Libya, Sudan's neighbor.
ShareThis
