The US Department of State approved the sale of F-16 fighters to Slovakia

News24xx.com - The Pentagon had notified the US Congress of its intention to sell the F-16 multipurpose fighter to Slovakia, and also the aviation rockets and bombs for with price of USD 2.91 billion. 

According to a statement that released on Wednesday, April 4 2018 by the Office of the US Department of Defense, its known that the State Department does not object to supplies of Bratislava.

Slovakia requested as much as 14 of F-16 fighters, 16 additional engines, 142 guided air-to-air missiles with the infrared homing head AIM-9X-2 Sidewinder, 400 MK-82 air bombs, as well as radars, electronic suppression systems, communication systems and pendant sighting and navigation systems, necessary spare parts and equipment, as well as logistics support.

The head of the Slovak Defense Ministry, Peter Gaidos, said that among his proposals for the purchase of new fighters were the Swedish JAS 35 Gripen and the American F-16. 

They also assessed the capabilities, characteristics and prices of Russian MiG fighters.

According to him, the whole issue of modernization of the Slovakian Air Force is limited solely to a lack of finance. But the possible short-term extension of the agreement with Russia on the technical maintenance of the MiG-29 fighters currently in service is "Plan B", priority is given to the purchase of new aircraft.

"The alleged sale of these weapons will contribute to the realization of the US foreign policy goals, since it will help strengthen the security of the NATO partner, which continues to play an important role in efforts to ensure political stability and economic progress in Europe," the statement said.

According to the Pentagon, Slovakia intends to replace its current fleet of MiG-29 fighters.

"This deal will not lead to a change in the military balance in the region," the statement said.

The law obliges the Defense Ministry to notify lawmakers about plans to sell arms or military equipment to other countries. And the congress has 30 days to block the deal, but usually it happens rarely.