Former Minister of Defense Armend Mehaj has reacted following the arrival of another shipment of OMTAS anti-tank missile systems from Türkiye to Kosovo.
Mehaj clarified that all procurements to date, including the most recent delivery from Türkiye, are part of a long-term, continuous process that began earlier and has been implemented over time. According to him, OMTAS was made public for the first time during the “Defender 23” exercise, and there is visual material that confirms state-to-state agreements.
“Due to media interest regarding the latest OMTAS deliveries, I find it necessary to clarify that all procurements to date, including this most recent one from Türkiye, are part of a planned and regular continuity of supply. These are not random or unexpected purchases, but processes that began earlier and have continued over time. OMTAS was first publicly presented during Defender 23, with photos already published, and the video confirming state-to-state agreements is also available,” Mehaj wrote on Facebook.
The former minister also highly praised the support of Prime Minister Albin Kurti, stating that backing for state-to-state agreements and contracts was complete and without any reservations.
Mehaj also addressed the Security Fund, emphasizing that its activation is neither accidental nor excessive. He added that similar funds exist even in much stronger and more consolidated states, stressing that investments in security are investments in stability and the future of the country.
“These are not random or unexpected purchases, but part of a long-term process. For those asking where the financial resources have gone and where they are going, the answer is clear: they have been used for these procurements, for previous supplies, and for those that will continue in the future. This has been and remains the logic behind building defense capabilities. In all these processes, including state-to-state agreements and contracts, the support of Prime Minister Albin Kurti has been full and without any reservations. I have always valued this highly,” Mehaj stated.
He further stressed that the Security Fund is subject to strict oversight and leaves no room for irregularities or abuse.
“Every contribution to Kosovo is an investment in the future. Together with our allies, shoulder to shoulder toward NATO membership,” Mehaj concluded.
The Republic of Kosovo yesterday received another shipment of OMTAS anti-tank missile systems, contracted with the Turkish state-owned defense company Roketsan in December 2023.
The news was confirmed by Ejup Maqedonci, Acting Minister of Defense.
