S-300 long-range surface-to-air missile
systems are on display during a celebration on May 9, 2015, in Minsk, Russia.
(Host photo agency/RIA Novosti via Getty Images)
WARSAW, Poland — Serbia’s president says his government
may purchase air defense systems and at least six transport helicopters from
Russia.
“Serbia is on a European path, but the difference between
Serbia and other countries in the region is that Serbia does not want to join
NATO,” Aleksandar Vucic said, as quoted by local broadcaster N1.
The president said his government considers Serbia “as an
independent country, militarily neutral” and it “must be strong enough to
defend ourselves.”
Belgrade has reportedly been considering a purchase of
S-300 long-range surface-to-air missile systems from Belarus, but the latest
statement indicates the contract could be awarded to Russia. The potential
acquisitions are to be discussed during Vucic’s Dec. 18-20 visit to Moscow,
during which the president will meet with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir
Putin.
Vucic said the six Mikoyan MiG-29 fighter jets that
Russia transferred to Serbia this year are currently being upgraded and will
reach full operational readiness in the coming months.
The planned procurements are part of Serbia’s military
modernization program. Among others, the Ministry of Defence is planning to
acquire new Lazar 3 eight-wheel drive armored vehicles and Milos unmanned
ground vehicles. Last month, the ministry decided to purchase 9mm Glock 17
handguns and 5.56mm FN Minimi light machine guns.
Original post: defensenews.com
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