Serbia strengthens military ties with major Israeli arms deal
Serbia, which for years remained heavily militarily linked with Russia, is increasingly boldly turning to other arms suppliers. The latest contract signed by Belgrade involves the PULS artillery systems and Hermes 900 drones from Israel. We explain what this weaponry entails.
According to information provided by the Israeli newspaper "Haaretz," the agreement between Serbia and Israel amounts to approximately £275 million. Elbit Systems, which produces both the PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System) artillery rocket systems and the advanced Hermes 900 drones, will supply the equipment.
Serbia buys weapons in Israel
The multi-launch rocket systems developed for PULS artillery needs are adapted to handle a wide range of ammunition - 122 mm, 160 mm, 306 mm caliber shells, and Predator Hawk 370 mm caliber, whose range reaches up to 300 kilometres, and the circular error probable (CEP) does not exceed 10 metres.
The Hermes 900, on the other hand, is an unmanned aerial vehicle weighing about 1,000 kilograms, of which just over 300 kilograms can consist of equipment used for reconnaissance and electronic warfare. Alternatively, the Hermes 900 can be armed, although combat missions are not the primary role of this drone. The maximum altitude reached by the Hermes 900 is approximately 10,000 metres. The flight endurance of this machine can extend up to 36 hours.
Serbia boldly turns to non-Russian weaponry
Serbia long relied on post-Soviet and Russian military equipment. Still, in recent years, Belgrade has confidently turned to contacts with other countries, such as France, with which it reached an agreement regarding Rafale fighters. The Israeli PULS artillery systems and Hermes 900 drones are further important purchases, becoming some of the newest and most advanced weapons in the Serbian army's inventory. Deliveries from Israel should begin as early as this year.
"The new acquisitions will allow Serbia to respond to any challenges, including those who believe they have an advantage over us," said Serbia's President Aleksandar Vučić, referring to Croatia's purchase of HIMARS systems.
