Serbia Opens Elbit Systems Drone Assembly Plant

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić inaugurated a drone assembly plant on Thursday, a facility featuring technology from the Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems. This move is part of Belgrade's broader strategy to modernize and enhance its military capabilities. The project was initially announced in April, with Vučić expressing Serbia's intent to jointly produce combat drones with Israel.

The Serbian state-owned arms company Yugoimport SDPR is reportedly partnering with Elbit Systems to establish this new production unit, according to regional media outlet BIRN. President Vučić stated via Instagram that the factory will employ approximately 100 people and will produce "the most modern equipment" for the Serbian army, as well as for the armed forces of other nations.

Details about the plant's location remain scarce, as Vučić explained that the press was not invited due to the confidential nature of the production process. He indicated that Serbia aims to open "at least three more factories" in the country with its Israeli partners. Videos shared on Instagram showed Vučić touring the facility, inspecting a drone, and briefly testing its operation.

Vučić highlighted the drones' effectiveness, claiming they can penetrate windows and track targets. He also mentioned that the drone warheads will be manufactured at the Serbian arms factory Krušik. This collaboration occurs as Serbia continues its military modernization, having previously ordered 12 Rafale fighter jets from France in 2024 and acquired military equipment from China and Russia in recent years.