Macron to Finalize Rafale Jet Deal with Serbia

PARIS (Reuters) – French President Emmanuel Macron expects to seal a deal to sell 12 Dassault-made Rafale fighter jets to Serbia during his visit later this week, his office informed journalists on Wednesday.

Purchasing French Rafales would signify a shift away from Russia, which has been Belgrade’s historic weapons supplier. Presently, Serbia relies on Soviet-designed MiG-29 jets, along with Russian missiles and tanks.

The Elysee did not disclose details on the jet model or the sale volume on Wednesday.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, who is scheduled to meet with Macron on Thursday, mentioned the potential deal during his visit to France in April. He previously informed Reuters that acquiring 12 new Rafale jets could cost around 3 billion euros ($3.34 billion).

($1 = 0.8985 euros)