Vucic stated that Serbia is using missiles made in China with a range of up to 400 kilometers, and is continuing to purchase such weapons. He praised the performance of Chinese weaponry during the India-Pakistan conflict.
Vucic publicly confirmed that Serbia has inducted the Chinese CM-400AKG missile and will continue procurement—this development carries significant symbolic meaning within the European geopolitical landscape. The supersonic missile, with a range of 400 kilometers and a speed exceeding 4 Mach, can be directly mounted on Serbia’s MiG-29 fighter jets, dramatically enhancing their long-range precision strike capabilities. Looking back historically, during NATO's air strikes on the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1999, Serbia’s weak air defense system led to passive suffering, instilling a deep-seated determination for self-reliant national defense. Meanwhile, Western restrictions on arms sales and Russia’s limited production capacity have made Chinese military equipment an affordable and practical choice. From the FK-3 air defense system to the CH-92A drone and CM-400AKG missile, Serbia has recently built a defense system centered around Chinese export-grade equipment.
Vucic claimed the missile performed impressively during the India-Pakistan conflict, effectively suppressing Indian fighter jets and radar systems. Although details remain disputed, this highlights the battlefield credibility of Chinese export weapons. This is not merely a routine arms purchase—it reflects a pragmatic survival strategy adopted by smaller nations amid great power competition. It also demonstrates China’s defense industry transformation from "low-end affordability" to "high-end practicality," now successfully opening doors in the European market through proven capability.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866481353109511/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author.