Serbia to buy new Israeli PULS multi-purpose air defence systems worth $335 million
Serbia has completed a $335 million deal with Israeli company Elbit Systems to purchase PULS rocket artillery systems and Hermes 900 reconnaissance drones.
Here's What We Know
The deal, concluded after lengthy negotiations, was officially announced by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. "I would like to inform you that after hard negotiations, we have signed an agreement to purchase the most powerful artillery systems in the world. We also bought some of the most advanced drones in the world," he said. The latest systems are expected to arrive in Serbia by mid-2028.
The artillery system PULS (Precise Universal Launching System) is capable of accurately launching missiles up to 300 km without the need for special modifications. It can be ready to fire within a minute after launch.
Hermes 900, in turn, is equipped with high-tech sensors to detect land and sea targets even in difficult conditions. They can perform a wide range of tasks, including reconnaissance, surveillance, maritime patrol and communications relay, and can support up to 350 kg of payload.
Hermes 900. Illustration: Wikipedia
President Vucic emphasised that these systems are far superior to the US weapons that Croatia has and will help Serbia meet any challenge.
It is worth explaining that these purchases are a kind of regional arms race between Serbia and Croatia, which continues against the backdrop of historical conflicts. In 2024, Croatia acquired US HIMARS systems and Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones, which increased tensions. In response, Serbia has been investing in its own defence capabilities, including the purchase of French Rafale fighter jets.
Source: The Defence Post
