With only 6 out of 20 engines currently operational for its fleet of eight MiG-29 fighter jets, Bangladesh is preparing to sign a Tk380 crore deal with Russian firm JSC NASC to repair and overhaul 12 non-functional engines.
The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Finance, seeking approval for the deal. Payments are planned to be spread over four fiscal years—from the current one through FY2027–28—due to budget limitations.
Each MiG-29 requires two engines, meaning 16 are needed to keep the fleet fully operational. A tender was floated by the Directorate General of Defence Procurement (DGDP) to find a service provider for the engine repairs. Of four bidders, two were shortlisted, and JSC NASC was selected as the most suitable and cost-effective. The initial proposal of $34.1 million was negotiated down to $30.6 million. After adding VAT, commissions, and banking charges, the total cost comes to approximately Tk379.68 crore.
The Ministry of Defence has given preliminary approval for the contract covering FY2024–25 and FY2025–26, with final approval pending from the Ministry of Finance. The agreement will be formalised once that clearance is granted.
Four of the eight MiG-29 jets were overhauled and modernised in FY2018–19, with their service life extended until June 2030. The remaining four are currently undergoing similar upgrades under a contract signed in FY2023–24. They are being serviced at JSC 558 Aircraft Repair Plant in Belarus and are expected to return by October 2025.
Procured from Russia during a previous Awami League administration, the MiG-29s have faced years of operational setbacks. Efforts to restore the non-functional engines have been delayed, largely due to the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on global defence logistics.
According to warpowerbangladesh.com, the Bangladesh Air Force currently operates 212 aircraft, including 44 fighter jets—36 of which are Chinese-made F-7s.
