Serbia has entered into a significant agreement with France’s Dassault Aviation for the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets. Defence Minister Bratislav Gasic and Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier signed the deal in Belgrade. The contract, made public during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit, includes fighter jets along with relevant equipment and services.
This deal marks a notable shift for Serbia, moving away from its traditional reliance on Russian military hardware. It is the largest arms agreement for Serbia since it became independent from Montenegro in 2006. Although Serbia condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it has not implemented sanctions against Moscow, unlike the European Union, which it aspires to join.
Historically, Serbia’s military has relied on Soviet technology. However, it has also acquired helicopters and transport planes from Airbus, radars from Thales, and Mistral surface-to-air missiles from France. Additionally, Serbia utilises Chinese missiles and drones. The defence budget constitutes about 2% of the country’s GDP.
Macron’s visit to Serbia is his second meeting with President Aleksandar Vucic this year. It follows a visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping in May, underscoring Serbia’s pivotal location on the EU’s periphery with connections to both Eastern and Western powers. The EU remains Serbia’s largest investor, with many Serbs employed by Western companies.
Serbia aims to diversify its gas supplies but remains reliant on Russian gas and benefits from Kremlin support regarding its stance on Kosovo’s 2008 independence. Before joining the EU, Serbia must enhance democracy, the rule of law, and its judiciary, eliminate corruption and organised crime, and improve relations with Kosovo. Aligning its foreign policies with Brussels, including imposing sanctions on Russia, is also required.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Reuters reports that Serbia and France’s Dassault Aviation signed an agreement for the purchase of an undisclosed number of Rafale fighter jets.(read more)
- PBS News reports that Serbia has announced a $3 billion deal to buy 12 French fighter jets, marking a shift away from relying on Russian military supplies.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What kind of fighter jets is Serbia buying?
Serbia is buying Rafale fighter jets from France’s Dassault Aviation.
Why is Serbia buying Rafale jets now?
This marks a shift from Russia and aligns with Serbia’s EU aspirations.
Has Serbia previously used Soviet military technology?
Yes, Serbia’s military is loosely based on Soviet technology.
Is Serbia imposing sanctions on Russia?
No, Serbia has condemned the invasion of Ukraine but hasn’t imposed sanctions on Russia.
What does Serbia need to do to join the EU?
Serbia must improve democracy, rule of law, fight corruption, and align foreign policies with the EU.