French Rafale Fighter Jet (Photo: PrintScreen Instagram/ mali_sinisa)
Finance Minister Sinisa Mali has said that Serbia has paid a second installment of EUR411.75 of an advance payment for 12 new French Rafale fighter jets, 15 days ahead of schedule.
“The first installment, in the same amount, was paid last October. With this latest payment, 30 percent of the total advance for the Rafale jets has been covered,” Mali said on Instagram.
The finance minister recalled that the contract for the acquisition of the 12 Rafale jets - considered among the best multirole combat aircraft in the world - was signed in Belgrade last August and that the signing ceremony was attended by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Mali emphasized that the procurement would enhance the operational capabilities of the Serbian Armed Forces and ensure long-term protection of the country’s airspace. “This major investment will improve the overall security of our country and citizens. I would also like to point out that by acquiring the Rafales, Serbia is not threatening anyone but rather preserving its sovereignty and independence,” said Mali.
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