
Serbia has cancelled arms supply agreements planned to be made with Russia due to the impact of the war in Ukraine and the sanctions imposed by the West. According to the statements of the Chief of General Staff of the Serbian Armed Forces, General Milan Mojsilović, the Belgrade government was forced to cancel a number of contracts for Russian arms. Mojsilović stated that arms supply from Russia has become practically impossible for now and that they are seeking a solution through diplomatic channels to overcome the current situation.
Sanctions Against Russia and Serbia's Defense Strategy
The war in Ukraine and the resulting international sanctions against Russia have been one of the biggest factors affecting Serbia’s flow of military equipment from Russia. Mojsilović said that in order to cope with this new situation, some contracts were cancelled and others were postponed, but he did not specify what types of weapons were covered by these agreements. Nevertheless, Serbia has established a flexible and sustainable system for the maintenance and supply of spare parts for its Soviet and Russian-designed equipment, even under sanctions against Moscow.
Defense Procurement from the West and Other Countries
Serbia is turning to defense supplies from the West and other countries. Belgrade, in particular, is continuing to develop its military relations with the West, planning to purchase Rafale fighter jets from France. France has agreed to sell Serbia 12 Rafale fighter jets. Serbia is also increasing its military cooperation with Israel. Israel’s Elbit Systems has agreed to supply Serbia with PULS artillery systems and Hermes 335 drones worth $900 million.
Military Cooperation with China
Serbia is also developing defense cooperation with China. Belgrade announced that Chinese-made FK-3 air defense systems have officially entered service with the country's Air Force. The development comes as part of Serbia's efforts to diversify its defense industry.
Serbia's International Defense Policy
Despite maintaining a policy of military neutrality, Serbia is increasing its efforts to develop military relations with the West. The country has decided to accelerate its bid to join the European Union, and President Aleksandar Vučić aims to further accelerate these efforts in October 2024. Serbia’s balancing act allows it to both cooperate with the West in military procurement and distance itself from Russia. This strategy is critical for the future of Serbia’s defense industry.
general evaluation
Serbia is making significant changes in its foreign policy and defense industry. Due to the tension in relations with Russia and the impact of Western sanctions, Serbia is turning to alternative sources for defense procurement. Belgrade is strengthening its military cooperation with countries such as France, Israel and China, while maintaining its strategic autonomy and trying to increase the diversity of its defense industry.