Serbia Inks Landmark Deal with Dassault Aviation for Rafale Jets

Serbia has signed a significant agreement with France's Dassault Aviation to purchase Rafale fighter jets, marking a pivotal shift in its military and political alignment away from Russia. The deal was signed during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit, emphasizing Serbia's strategic position between East and West.

In a landmark move, Serbia on Thursday signed an agreement with France's Dassault Aviation for the procurement of Rafale fighter jets. The deal, inked by Serbia's Defence Minister Bratislav Gasic and Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier, includes aircraft and accompanying equipment and services.

The acquisition, coinciding with French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Belgrade, signifies a major shift in Serbia's security and political stance, traditionally aligned with Russia. This represents Serbia's largest weapons deal since its 2006 independence from Montenegro.

After Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Belgrade reduced military cooperation with Moscow and even condemned the invasion, although it hasn't imposed sanctions like the EU, which Serbia wishes to join. Despite a military foundation in Soviet technology, Serbia has diversified its acquisitions, purchasing Airbus helicopters, Thales radars, and French Mistral missiles. Serbia's defence budget is approximately 2% of its GDP.

Adding to this complex geopolitical scenario, Serbia also uses Chinese missiles and drones, reflecting its strategic position bordering the EU but maintaining ties with both East and West. This visit marks Macron's second meeting with Serbian President Vucic this year, following Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit in May.

The EU remains Serbia's main investor, with thousands of Serbs employed by Western companies. However, Serbia's EU membership requires significant reforms including democratic improvements, rule of law enhancements, and alignment of foreign policies with Brussels, particularly imposing sanctions on Russia.

(With inputs from agencies.)