Leaders from Turkey and Serbia have announced a significant step towards closer cooperation in their military industries, including plans for the potential joint production of military drones.
This announcement was made during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Belgrade on October 11, 2024, where he met with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić.
During a joint press conference, Erdoğan emphasized the need for both nations to collaborate in developing their defence industries, stating, Turkey and Serbia need to take a step together… to ensure the preservation of peace.
He highlighted Turkey’s advanced capabilities in drone technology, particularly referencing the well-known Bayraktar TB2 drones, which have gained international acclaim for their effectiveness in various conflicts. Vučić acknowledged Serbia’s interest in enhancing its military capabilities and expressed confidence in Erdoğan’s commitment to regional stability.
He remarked, The Turkish military industry is significantly stronger than ours, indicating a willingness to leverage Turkey’s expertise in drone production.
The announcement comes amidst heightened regional security concerns, particularly following Turkey’s recent delivery of drones to Kosovo, a former Serbian province that declared independence in 2008—a status Serbia does not recognize.
This delivery had previously strained relations between Turkey and Serbia. However, Vučić’s remarks during Erdoğan’s visit suggest a shift towards collaboration rather than confrontation. The two leaders also signed agreements covering various sectors, including trade and energy, further solidifying their partnership.
They discussed the importance of peace and stability in the Balkans and reiterated their commitment to addressing tensions arising from the complex geopolitical landscape.
As Turkey continues to expand its influence in the Balkans through military partnerships, this cooperation with Serbia may pave the way for enhanced defence capabilities in the region. Both nations are poised to explore joint ventures that could include the production of advanced military drones, positioning themselves strategically amid ongoing security challenges.
With this collaboration, Turkey aims to strengthen its role as a key player in the defence industry, while Serbia seeks to bolster its military readiness. The developments signal a potential shift in regional dynamics as both countries navigate their interests in an increasingly complex security environment.
