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North Macedonia officially confirmed that four Su-25 fighters were handed over to Ukraine. According to the report by Janes, Minister of Defence of North Macedonia, Slavjanka Petrovska confirmed the transfer of fighters to Kiev on 14 March.
Three single-seat Su-25s and one double seat Su-25UB were sent to Ukraine. However, all of them are reportedly unsuitable for performing combat missions. The aircraft were not used since 2004.
Petrovska said that equipment delivered to Ukraine so far consists of “infantry weapons and ammunition, artillery equipment, MBTs [main battle tanks], Sukhoi aircraft, anti-armour and anti-aircraft weapon systems, and equipment and ammunition for use by the military aviation”.
Petrovska did note that the donations made so far were not part of the formation of the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia (ARSM).
Last summer, media reported that North Macedonia donated four Su-25 attack aircraft to Ukraine, which Skopje bought from Kiev in 2001 for €4 million. Skopje needed the aircraft during the conflict with Albanian separatists from the National Liberation Army.
On March 14, Skopje approved a new package of military aid intended to support Ukraine, but no details on the type or quantity of equipment.
On March 15, North Macedonian media outlets reported that the government is reportedly assessing the possibility of transfer of 12 Mi-24 ‘Hind’ attack helicopters that Ukraine has requested.
