Serbia ramps up modern weapons program as Croatia warns of Balkan arms race

Serbia is undertaking a broad modernisation of its armed forces, buying Chinese CM-400AKG supersonic rockets that can be launched from MiG-29 fighters, along with FK-3 air-defence units and CH-92A drones. The country also secured a deal for twelve French Rafale fighter jets and has purchased Israeli PULS rocket-launchers and Hermes drones, with plans for further long-range missile and electronic-warfare acquisitions. President Aleksandar Vučić emphasized the missiles’ 400-kilometre reach, noting the impact on regional strike capabilities.

Croatia, citing historic rivalries and the Kosovo issue, has expressed growing concern, with Prime Minister Andrej Plenković labeling Serbia’s purchases a “shopping mania.” Zagreb argues that neighbouring states must question the rationale behind Serbia’s rapid military expansion, fearing a destabilising arms competition in the Balkans.