Serbia Signs $335M Deal for Israeli PULS Artillery System, Hermes Drones
Serbia has finalized the procurement of Israeli-made PULS artillery rocket systems and Hermes 900 reconnaissance drones to strengthen its position in the regional arms race with rival Croatia.
The deal, valued at $335 million, was initially announced by Elbit Systems in November 2024, but the company did not specify which European country was the buyer.
Local media outlets recently confirmed that Belgrade would be the destination for the advanced defense systems, citing remarks from Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić.
“I’d like to inform you that following persistent negotiations, we’ve signed a deal to buy the most powerful artillery systems in the world. We’ve also bought some of the most sophisticated drones in the world,” he stated, as quoted by Haaretz.
The artillery systems and drones are expected to be delivered by mid-2028.
Better Than American Systems?
The PULS, or Precise and Universal Launching System, is an autonomous artillery rocket system capable of accurately launching advanced rockets over distances of up to 300 kilometers (186 miles).
Its design eliminates the need for special modifications, enabling it to execute firing missions within one minute of initiation.
Meanwhile, the Hermes 900 drones feature high-performance sensors for precise detection of both ground and maritime targets, even in challenging weather conditions.
With a payload capacity of up to 350 kilograms (772 pounds), these drones support a wide range of missions, including intelligence, surveillance, maritime patrol, ground support, and communications relay.
Vučić claimed these systems surpass Croatia’s US-made weapons, positioning Serbia to respond to any challenges, including those posed by “those who think they have an advantage over us.”
He also emphasized their cutting-edge capabilities, saying they are “the most sophisticated weaponry in the world … enabling immediate launches and complete destruction of targets.”
Arms Race With Croatia
Serbia is in the midst of a growing arms race with neighboring Croatia, its regional archrival.
In September 2024, the US approved the potential sale to Zagreb of eight M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, valued at $390 million.
Croatia has also purchased Bayraktar TB2 drones from Turkey to enhance its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.
In response, Serbia has made significant defense investments, including the acquisition of 12 Rafale fighter jets from France in 2024.
These moves are reportedly aimed at maintaining strategic balance and ensuring Serbia’s readiness in the face of regional competition.
Tensions between the two countries are rooted in historical conflicts, particularly the violent breakup of Yugoslavia and the Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s.
