| In late 2003, the Serbian Armed Forces began an ambitious task of mass modernization and reorganization of its entire structure. The first step of modernization was reorganizing all units and command structures to reduce the overall size of the army and make it more maneuverable and professional to respond to dangerous situations. This part of the reorganization plan was fully completed in under 13 months. The withdrawal of old and obsolete equipment and procurement of replacements is currently in the process. The Armed Forces are planning to move to a completely professional force and abolish conscription by 2010, operating at international standard (NATO) and participating in UN peacekeeping operations. T-55 tanks and older logistical vehicles are currently in the process for being withdrawn and replaced. The withdrawn T-55s will be put on sale. T-72's will be used for training. A planned modernization of M-84 into M-2001 is also due. M-80A IFV's will be modernized to serve for a prolonged 10 years of service. The military has made plans to announce a tender for 200 8x8 wheel armored vehicles, likely choices are Patria AMV, BTR-90, Mowag Piranha or Pandur.[1] There are plans to obtain around 24-30 new fighter aircraft to replace the aging MiG-21 fleet which is due to retire around 2010, a tender for a replacement will be called for in 2011 and completed by 2014.[2] The few Modernized MiG-29s will serve as primary air cover until its replacement is named. Serbia is also ... |
