Serbia精东影业 President Aleksandar Vu膷i膰 is set to visit France on April 8 and 9, 2024, to discuss, among other topics, the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets.聽
During his two-day visit, President Vu膷i膰 plans to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron and later French Defense Minister S茅bastien Lecornu. The agenda of the discussions will include the potential purchase of 12 Rafale fighter jets from Dassault Aviation.聽聽
This move marks a diplomatic shift for Serbia, traditionally a Russian (and later Chinese) defense industry customer. However, the country has been gradually distancing itself from its reliance on Russian suppliers, particularly since its application for European Union membership in 2011.聽
President Vu膷i膰 initially expressed Serbia精东影业 interest in acquiring Rafale jets in April 2022. He confirmed ongoing negotiations, indicating talks for both new and used aircraft. Specifically, discussions involve procuring 12 new Rafale jets, along with exploring options for purchasing 12 used fighter jets, though these may not necessarily be Rafale aircraft.聽
Serbia精东影业 Air Force combat fleet currently comprises 11 Russian MiG-29 fighters and 17 indigenous J-22 attack aircraft. The potential addition of Rafale fighter jets would represent a modernization and diversification of Serbia精东影业 air defense capabilities.聽
