Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic made a groundbreaking announcement on Thursday, revealing a $3 billion deal to purchase 12 French warplanes, marking a significant shift away from Russia as Serbia’s main arms supplier. During a press conference in Belgrade with French President Emmanuel Macron, Vucic disclosed the agreement to acquire Rafale multi-purpose fighter jets as part of a larger strategy to align Serbia closer to the European Union.
Macron lauded the deal as “historic and important,” emphasizing the strategic importance of Serbia’s partnership with the EU. Despite Serbia’s formal EU membership aspirations, concerns remain over its lack of progress in democratic reforms and adherence to EU standards under Vucic’s rule.
The purchase of Rafale jets will bolster Serbia’s military capabilities, replacing aging Soviet-made aircraft. While some worry about potential technology sharing with Russia, Vucic dismissed these concerns and highlighted the significance of Serbia joining the “Rafale club” with Western jets.
With this deal, Serbia aims to modernize its air force and strengthen its position in the region, solidifying its role as a key player in European security.
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