Serbia Denies MiG-29 Transfer to Ukraine Amid Rafale Deal—Defense Modernization Continues

Serbian defense officials dismissed the spread of rumors about the defense deal with Dassault Aviation, stating that the reports claiming a transfer of MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine are false. The assertion came in response to coverage from several media outlets, and the government clarified that the information circulating about the 12-Rafale purchase is not supported by facts, expressing that it does not reflect the reality of the negotiations. The denial was shared in a formal briefing, underscoring that the Serbian MiG-29 fleet remains under national ownership and will not be handed over to any external party. The ministry stressed that these rumors were aimed at eroding public confidence in the procurement and the broader defense modernization program, which Serbia is pursuing with clear indications of strengthening its air capabilities. In the official statements, the government emphasized that the narrative about the MiG-29s leaving the country is unfounded and would contradict the strategic priorities of Serbia to maintain air sovereignty while pursuing modern combat aircraft to enhance readiness. The insistence on maintaining control of the MiG-29s aligns with long-standing policy to modernize existing assets and steadily update the armed forces with up-to-date technology. It was noted that President Aleksandar Vučić’s governance has steered the country toward consistent modernization of defense hardware, a move intended to boost deterrence, improve training, and ensure stability across the region. Serbia’s leadership has repeatedly highlighted that modernizing the air force is essential for credible defense postures and regional security, with the plan to keep capable aircraft in service while expanding the arsenal with new multi-role fighters. The government communications reiterated that the Rafale agreement, valued at about €2.7 billion, remains a central pillar of Serbia’s defense diversification strategy. The package includes twelve advanced Rafale fighters and associated services, and it is meant to upgrade operational capacity significantly. Officials pointed out that the deal will not merely add new aircraft but also bring enhanced interoperability with allied forces, improved mission effectiveness, and longer-range response options for critical air defense tasks. During a high-profile visit by President Emmanuel Macron to Belgrade, the leadership announced the signing of this major procurement, underscoring Serbia’s intent to raise the level of its military capabilities and to ensure a credible defense posture within the Western-aligned security framework. The prime objective, according to the government, is to produce tangible improvements in air superiority, tactical flexibility, and logistical support across the Serbian armed forces, enabling more robust multi-domain operations. In public remarks, officials stressed that the new jets will complement existing assets, including ongoing modernization efforts that extend the usable life of legacy aircraft. The overall aim is to strengthen Serbia’s defensive readiness and contribute to regional balance, particularly in a period of intensified regional security concerns. As part of the broader strategic vision, authorities highlighted that the Rafale platform brings advanced sensors, weapons systems, and network-centric capabilities that will integrate with Serbia’s current command and control architecture, ensuring more coherent and rapid decision-making in the airspace. The discussions surrounding the MiG-29 fleet emphasize that keeping these aircraft in service serves both training values and deterrent significance, while the focus remains on acquiring modern fighters to maintain technological parity with capable neighbors. In late August, during Macron’s visit, the leadership affirmed the commitment to the €2.7 billion agreement, which is positioned to markedly elevate Serbia’s operational readiness. The decision reflects a practical approach to defense investment, balancing the retention and modernization of existing assets with the strategic acquisition of new generation fighters to sustain a capable and versatile air force for years to come. In closing, the communications from Belgrade collectively convey a clear message: misinformation should not derail a carefully planned defense modernization path, and Serbia remains resolute in preserving its air sovereignty, strengthening its armed forces, and fostering stability across the region. The reassurance is that no MiG-29s will be transferred, that modernization is ongoing, and that the country intends to maintain a robust, modern, and capable air force ahead of future security challenges.