Acting Minister of Defense Ejup Maqedonci announced that the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) has surpassed its projected armored vehicle acquisition goals by 207 percent, reaching the target three years ahead of schedule. His statement came after the latest delivery of a 50-vehicle contingent from the United States.
Progress vs. The Transition Plan
According to the minister, the KSF’s Comprehensive Transition Plan (CTP), adopted in 2019, called for the acquisition of “several dozen” armored vehicles by 2028. However, Maqedonci stated that by 2025, the army has already been equipped with “several hundred” armored vehicles.
Maqedonci also highlighted the significant increase in the defense budget, which has grown from €67 million in 2021 to a projected €208 million for 2025.
Strengthening the Army for NATO Accession
Maqedonci emphasized that these investments are making the KSF a stronger guarantee for the country’s sovereignty. He added that as the force grows and becomes more powerful, it also becomes more interoperable with its allies, solidifying its path toward NATO membership. The article also notes that Kosovo has recently acquired other military equipment, including Javelin anti-tank missiles and Bayraktar combat drones.
