President of Serbia: We need Russian weapons
Serbia needs Russian weapons to ensure its own security, President Alexander Vučić said in an interview with RIA Novosti.
According to him, Belgrade is awaiting a visit soon from Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu and the “arrival of tanks and reconnaissance vehicles” from Russia. “This is of great importance to us, although some ignoramuses say, ‘Why do we need it?’” Vučić said.
According to him, the supply of weapons from Russia will strengthen the defense capacity of Serbia and prevent a repeat of what happened in 1999, when NATO countries attacked the country with airstrikes. “Our defense capabilities will grow significantly in literally one day ... today we have three or four MiG-29s, and there is no better aircraft in close combat. And when we equip the army with radar and air defense, citizens will feel safe,” Vučić said.
In December 2016, Vučić, who was then Prime Minister of Serbia, said that Belgrade was negotiating with Moscow on the supply of tanks and MiG-29 aircraft. He noted that six fighters will be provided to Serbia on preferential terms. The deal, along with the modernization of the aircraft, should cost Serbia 180-230 million euros, instead of the 600 million euros it would cost if bought on the open market, Vučić said.