Data published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute show that Serbia has imported advanced weapons systems from 13 different countries over the past five years, with China and Russia emerging as its main suppliers.
According to the report, China has been Serbia’s largest partner in supplying medium-range air defense systems, while the largest military donations to Serbia have come from Russia and Belarus.
Experts note that Belgrade has also taken advantage of changes in global security dynamics and international conflicts to increase its investments in military equipment.
At the same time, Serbia has used regional developments to reinforce the narrative that it faces security threats. One example cited is the reaction to the security cooperation between Kosovo, Albania, and Croatia, which Serbian officials have portrayed as a threat to Serbia.
However, according to experts, this cooperation does not constitute a military alliance. Instead, it mainly involves joint exercises, training programs, and coordination of activities, most of which take place within the framework of NATO.
The report warns that dramatic increases in percentages can appear alarming, especially when combined with harsh political rhetoric and sensationalist reporting.
“A significant increase in percentages often looks dramatic, but when combined with harsh political rhetoric and sensationalist reporting, it creates a sense of insecurity among neighbors and serves as justification for new military investments,” the report states.
