Arie Egozi/TEL AVIV
Elbit Systems is to provide the Ethiopian air force with 10 upgraded Mikoyan MiG-21s supplied from the Romanian air force's inventory, as Addis Ababa moves to strengthen its forces in the conflict with neighbouring Eritrea.
The Israeli company scooped the $30 million deal after a competition with the Lahav division of Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI).
In mid-June, Ethiopia requested quick delivery of upgraded fighters as it became embroiled in a border dispute with Eritrea which resulted in aircraft being lost by both sides.
Elbit Systems, main contractor for the upgrade of 110 MiG-21s for the Romanians, persuaded Bucharest to approve the transfer of 10 upgraded fighters to Ethiopia. This unusual arrangement tipped the scales in favour of Elbit.
It is not clear whether the 10 aircraft will eventually be returned to Romania. It is understood that the aircraft, mainly ground-attack versions will be delivered shortly.
Elbit Systems and Aerostar, its Romanian subcontractor, have so far delivered 50 upgraded MiG-21 Lancers to the Romanian air force.
About 70 of the MiG-21s are being updated to perform ground attack missions and are being equipped with an Elta radar altimeter. The others are designed for air combat missions and are equipped with an Elta multi-mode radar. The upgrade package also includes a new mission computer and a complete new cockpit equipped with multi-function displays.
Although Elbit has secured the deal for the first 10 aircraft, the battle with IAI continues over the upgrade of other Mikoyan combat aircraft in the Ethiopian air force.
A deal remains in the offing to update at least 10 other MiG-21s, supply armaments and improve infrastructure items such as simulators and test equipment. This could be worth about $130 million. A later update of MiG-23s is possible.
Source: Flight International
