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Serbia Acquires Elbit Systems' PULS Artillery Rocket System Amid Tensions with Croatia.
Serbia has finalized a $335 million agreement with Israeli defense company Elbit Systems, marking a step in its military modernization strategy. According to Israeli media outlet Haaretz, the deal includes the acquisition of the advanced PULS (Precise and Universal Launching System) artillery rocket system and Hermes 900 MALE reconnaissance drones. This acquisition underscores Serbia's efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities in response to growing regional challenges and strategic competition with neighboring Croatia, a NATO member.
This acquisition aligns with Serbia's strategy to address the recent military advancements of Croatia, which has procured the American HIMARS system (Picture source: Elbit Systems)
The PULS system is a versatile platform capable of launching a variety of munitions with a maximum range of 300 kilometers. Equipped with two modular PODS, it can deploy different rocket types, such as the Accular 122 mm (18 rockets, range of 35 km), Accular 160 mm (10 rockets, range of 40 km), EXTRA (4 rockets, range of 150 km), and Predator Hawk (2 rockets, range of 300 km). Its design allows for rapid execution of missions without repositioning, enhancing the responsiveness of armed forces. Complementing the PULS, Hermes 900 drones will bolster Serbia's surveillance capabilities with their extended operational range and advanced reconnaissance systems.
Elbit Systems initially announced the deal in November 2024 without specifying the European client. Shortly after, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić confirmed that Serbia had secured an agreement to acquire modern artillery and reconnaissance systems, without elaborating on specific details. His statement confirmed Serbia as the buyer referenced by Elbit Systems.
This acquisition aligns with Serbia's strategy to address the recent military advancements of Croatia, which has procured the American HIMARS system. Vučić emphasized the superiority of the Israeli systems, positioning the PULS as a direct response to Croatia's growing arsenal. This strategic choice reflects Serbia's intent to maintain regional balance and reinforce its military posture.
The PULS system is notable for its adaptability. It can integrate with existing platforms, reducing maintenance and training costs. Additionally, it supports advanced munitions such as SkyStriker loitering munitions, which offer long-range precision strike capabilities. These features make it a comprehensive solution for armed forces aiming to enhance their operational efficiency.
Beyond Serbia, other European nations, including Denmark, Spain, the Netherlands, and Germany, have also adopted the PULS system, often upgrading it to the Euro-PULS variant. These enhancements include German fire control systems and compatibility with additional non-Elbit weaponry.
Defense ties between Serbia and Israel have deepened in recent years. Historically, Israel supplied weapons to Bosnian Serbs in the 1990s. More recently, Serbia has facilitated arms and munitions shipments to Israel, illustrating a mutually beneficial strategic relationship.
This agreement between Serbia and Elbit Systems represents a significant development in Serbia's defense modernization efforts. The addition of the PULS system and Hermes 900 drones enhances Serbia's ability to address strategic challenges while positioning the country as a key player in regional security dynamics. The acquisition reflects a proactive approach to ensuring national security and maintaining strategic balance in the Balkans.