Serbia’s military expansion is beginning to worry its neighbours. The country has been investing heavily in modernising its armed forces, purchasing weapons from Russia, China, and France, and even securing drones from Iran. While these moves may seem like routine military upgrades, they are raising eyebrows in countries like Kosovo and Bosnia-Herzegovina, which fear the impact on regional stability.
Serbia’s growing military power
Serbia’s government has focused on modernising its army. Recently, it acquired French fighter jets, Russian helicopters, and air defence systems from China. Additionally, drones from Iran, the same type used by Russia in Ukraine, have made their way into Serbian hands. This has prompted concerns that Serbia is seeking to bolster its military influence in the region.
Kosovo’s President Vjosa Osmani has warned that this build-up could threaten peace in the Balkans. She argues that Serbia’s military strengthening, backed by Russian ties, is a destabilising force in the region.
What does this mean for the Balkans?
Serbia’s military moves appear part of a wider political ambition. President Aleksandar Vu?i? has spoken of a “Serb world,” a vision of expanded Serbian influence in areas with Serb populations, such as Kosovo and Bosnia. This has caused alarm in Bosnia, particularly in Republika Srpska, the Serb-majority entity, where separatist sentiment is rising.
In response, countries like Kosovo are strengthening their defences. Kosovo has secured drones from Turkey and anti-tank missiles from the U.S. as a countermeasure.
Rising tensions
Serbia’s military activities, particularly manoeuvres near the Kosovo border, are a point of tension. Though there have been no significant escalations, past confrontations between Serb paramilitaries and Kosovo forces remind the region of the fragility of peace.
Internationally, there is concern. The European Union and NATO are keen to avoid further conflict, aware that any aggressive moves by Serbia could destabilise the entire region.
