10,000 troops marched through the streets of the Serbian capital as crowds waved national flags and aircraft soared overhead in a display the government described as a celebration of Serbian Unity, Freedom, and National Flag Day.
President Aleksandar Vučić said the parade demonstrated Serbia’s capacity to defend its independence and sovereignty, and to deter any external threats.
Alongside domestically produced weapons, the event featured modern weaponry including Israeli PULS rocket launchers, drones from the United Arab Emirates, Russian tanks, and Chinese HQ-22 air defense systems, highlighting the Western Balkan country’s diverse foreign policy ties. French Rafale fighter jets were also prominently featured, with the Serbian government recently ordering 12 additional aircraft. The Israeli PULS launchers drew particular attention for their 300-kilometer range, capable of reaching most Balkan capitals.
The parade was not without controversy. Opposition groups criticized the event as a political show of force, while protesters were kept at a distance by police.
