Serbia Strengthens its air force with chinese hypersonic missiles

Serbia is boosting its air power by acquiring supersonic air-to-surface ballistic missiles from China, opening a new chapter in its military equipment and causing concern in the Balkans. The CM-400AKG missiles were installed on Serbian Air Force MiG-29 fighters, President Aleksandar Vucic announced, without disclosing the cost of the deal, only saying there was a “small discount.”

The acquisition, according to Belgrade, is part of the country's strategy to maintain a balance between EU membership ambitions and maintaining historic ties with Russia, but also developing strategic partnerships with China, which is investing significantly in Serbia. Croatia, a member of the EU and NATO, reacted strongly, describing the move as a threat to regional stability and a sign of a new arms race in the Balkans.

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The CM-400AKG, a product of China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC), carries an explosive or armor-piercing warhead and reaches a range of up to 400 km. Their first use in combat was recorded in 2025 in the India-Pakistan armed conflict, with the Pakistanis targeting an Indian S-400 air defense system.

Serbia, which this year has budgeted approximately 2.6% of GDP for defense spending, has also strengthened its armed forces with FK-3 air defense systems, Chinese CH-92A combat drones, while simultaneously purchasing 12 Rafale from France and helicopters and transport aircraft from Airbus.

Vucic pointed out that the numbers of missiles will increase further, strengthening Serbia's ability to protect its national sovereignty, while this move highlights Belgrade's effort to balance between traditional alliances and modern strategic needs.