Serbia held a large-scale military parade last week in Belgrade, featuring approximately 10,000 military personnel and 2,500 pieces of equipment, including ground vehicles, aircraft, and naval vessels. Serbian officials stated it was the largest display of military might in the nation's history.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic reviewed the participating troops. He declared the event demonstrated Serbia's ability to protect its independence and sovereignty, while also serving as a deterrent to any potential aggressors. Serbia is almost entirely surrounded by NATO member states.
Serbia displayed both domestically produced and foreign-acquired weapons at the parade, including the first public appearance of two Chinese-made air defense systems, the FK-3 and HQ-17AE.
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FK-3 air defense system launcher at the parade in Belgrade, Serbia on 20/9. Photo: Xinhua |
FK-3 air defense system launcher at the parade in Belgrade, Serbia on 20/9. Photo: Xinhua
These are export versions of the HQ-22 medium-to-long-range missile and the HQ-17A short-range air defense system used by the Chinese military. Serbia is the first European country to independently operate and maintain the FK-3, which is said to be comparable to the Russian S-300 and American Patriot air defense systems.
The country also showcased other imported equipment, such as UAE-manufactured drones and Russian tanks. The Israeli-made PULS multiple rocket launcher, capable of firing various munitions with a maximum range of 300 km, was also featured.
Another surprise at the parade was the appearance of two French Rafale fighter jets. Serbia has ordered 12 Rafale aircraft and expects to receive them in the coming years.
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MiG-29 fighter jet and Rafale fighter jets (on both sides) perform a flyover at the parade in Belgrade, Serbia on 20/9. Photo: AFP |
MiG-29 fighter jet and Rafale fighter jets (on both sides) perform a flyover at the parade in Belgrade, Serbia on 20/9. Photo: AFP
According to the Associated Press (AP), the presence of Russian and Chinese equipment at the parade highlights Serbia's close ties with these two nations, despite Belgrade's stated desire to join the European Union (EU).
Over the past two decades, China has invested heavily in military technology, aiming to modernize its armed forces and challenge Western dominance, while also increasing arms exports. Compared to Western weapons, Chinese export systems are considered to have a significant competitive advantage in terms of price and accompanying conditions.
Pham Giang (According to AP, AFP)
