Serbia President to discuss Rafale fighter order with France

Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vučić is set to visit France on April 8 and 9, 2024, to discuss, among other topics, the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets. 

During his two-day visit, President Vučić plans to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron and later French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu. The agenda of the discussions will include the potential purchase of 12 Rafale fighter jets from Dassault Aviation.  

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. 

President Vučić initially expressed Serbia’s 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. 

Serbia’s 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’s air defense capabilities.