Serbia signs €2.7bn deal with France for 12 Rafale war planes

RFI

30 August 2024 at 3:11 am·1-min read

Serbia has signed a landmark agreement with France's Dassault Aviation for the purchase of 12 new Rafale fighter jets for 2.7 billion euros, in a shift away from its traditional ally Russia.

Serbian Presdient Aleksandar Vucic announced the deal for 12 multi-purpose warplanes during a joint news conference in Belgrade with French President Emmanuel Macron, who is visiting in an attempt to strengthen Serbia's ties with the European Union.

Macron called the deal "historic and important" and said it demonstrated Serbia's "strategic courage" and "European spirit."

The agreement, signed by Serbia's Defence Minister Bratislav Gasic and Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier, also includes a complete auxiliary logistics package, spare engines and parts.

"A dozen of brand new aircraft will be owned by Serbia ... this will contribute to a significant increase in the operational capabilities of our army," Vucic said.

"We are happy to become a part of the Rafale club."

Shift away from Russia

The acquisition suggests a shift in Serbia's security and political stance, moving away from Russia – its traditional ally and weapons supplier.

Macron said Europe needs a strong and democratic Serbia, while Belgrade needs a "strong and sovereign EU".

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Shift away from Russia

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