Serbia's Game-Changing Deal: Rafale Jets Purchase Signals Shift from Russia

Serbia has signed a major agreement with France's Dassault Aviation to purchase 12 Rafale fighter jets for 2.7 billion euros. This move, part of a broader shift away from its historic ally Russia, includes auxiliary logistics and spare parts and represents Serbia's largest weapons deal since 2006 independence.

In a landmark strategic move, Serbia inked an agreement on Thursday with France's Dassault Aviation to acquire 12 new Rafale fighter jets for 2.7 billion euros ($2.99 billion), marking a significant pivot from its reliance on Russian military hardware.

The deal, formalized by Serbia's Defence Minister Bratislav Gasic and Dassault CEO Eric Trappier, encompasses a comprehensive auxiliary logistics package, adding spare engines and parts essential for maintaining the fleet, President Aleksandar Vucic confirmed at a news conference.

'This acquisition of a dozen brand-new Rafale jets will profoundly enhance the operational capabilities of our army,' Vucic remarked, expressing delight at Serbia joining the exclusive 'Rafale club.' The agreement, signed during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Belgrade, underscores a notable shift in Serbia's security and political strategy, distancing itself from Russia and moving closer to the West. Macron emphasized the importance of a 'strong and sovereign EU' alongside a robust and democratic Serbia.

(With inputs from agencies.)