Israeli-made rocket launcher displayed at Serbian military parade catches eye of experts

BELGRADE, Serbia — Serbia stages a large-scale military parade in the capital Belgrade, showcasing tanks, missile systems and fighter jets in what officials describe as the country’s biggest display of army strength in its history.

President Aleksandar Vucic reviews the parade, which includes about 10,000 troops, saying the show of force underscores Serbia’s ability to defend its independence and sovereignty and act as a deterrent against any foreign aggressor. Serbia is mostly surrounded by NATO-member states.

Columns of troops march through the New Belgrade district of the capital as crowds wave national flags, while aircraft roar overhead.

The event features both domestically produced weapons as well as rocket launchers from Israel, drones purchased from the United Arab Emirates, as well as tanks supplied by Russia and anti-aircraft systems from China, reflecting Belgrade’s close ties with Moscow and Beijing despite its declared goal of joining the European Union.

What catches most of the attention of military experts is the Israeli PULS system, a versatile rocket artillery platform capable of launching a range of munitions with varying ranges and payloads. Its range is up to 300 kilometers (185 miles), meaning it can reach most of the Balkan capitals.

Another surprise appearance is a couple of the French Air Force’s Rafale fighter jets. Serbia has ordered 12 such multi-purpose aircraft that are due for delivery in the coming years.