Despite Allegations of War Crimes, Serbia’s Arms Exports to Israel Reach New Heights
“Serbia is acknowledged globally as a nation that produces, among other items, high-quality ammunition across small, medium, and large calibres, including 155 mm shells and various calibre mortar rounds,” stated military expert Vlada Radulovic in a previous interview with BIRN. “This could be a prospective area of interest for Israel.”
The production of Serbia’s 155mm artillery shells takes place in two state-run arms facilities – Krusik in Valjevo and Sloboda in Cacak.
In addition to military flights, insiders in the arms sector have indicated that some weapon shipments might have also been made via maritime transport. One particular source mentioned that discussions regarding shipping logistics had taken place and might already be implemented.
Israeli technology, Serbian surveillance
The bond between Israel and Serbia extends beyond mere arms transactions.
While contemplating a free trade agreement, Vucic remarked that his conversations with Herzog in September also included discussions on technology and artificial intelligence (AI).
Vucic noted that there is “significant potential for collaboration” in attracting Israeli investments in the cyber security arena.
Confronted with ongoing protests, Serbia’s government has demonstrated a strong interest in the expertise provided by Israeli firms specializing in surveillance technologies.
Local and international surveillance advocates highlight Serbia’s record of employing software developed by Israeli companies to monitor, among others, anti-government activists.
In 2020, Serbia’s Security Information Agency (BIA) was reported to be among users of technology produced by the Israeli firm Circles, which allows quick tracking of all phones within the country.
In collaboration with Amnesty International, BIRN revealed in December that BIA utilized Israeli technology to deploy locally-developed spyware on the devices of activists and journalists.
“For Serbia,” Vuksanovic stated, “this represents yet another accomplishment in its multi-vector foreign policy, where Belgrade engages with every possible partner to maximize its benefits, be it in foreign capital, technology, intelligence, military collaboration, or political backing.”
Serbia procures Israeli rockets and drones
In January, Serbia finalized a deal to purchase an undisclosed quantity of PULS rocket systems and Hermes 900 reconnaissance drones from the Israeli firm Elbit Systems.
The agreement, valued at $335 million, has been reported by Haaretz, with the equipment set to be delivered over the next three and a half years.
Security analyst Vuk Vuksanovic remarked that while Serbia aims to modernize its military forces, it is also effectively cultivating political alliances.
“It then leverages this arsenal to strengthen its position with both the West and neighboring countries, as well as for domestic political promotion,” said Vuksanovic. “It’s essential to factor in domestic corruption in Serbia as an additional motive.”