Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic recently inaugurated a new factory in Serbia for producing Israeli-made combat drones. The facility, which is expected to enhance the country's military capabilities, is part of a broader plan to modernize Serbia's armed forces. Vucic had previously announced in April that Serbia would begin producing combat drones in partnership with Israel. According to regional news outlet BIRN, the state-owned arms manufacturer Yugoimport SDPR is collaborating with the Israeli defense company Elbit Systems to open the drone plant. The factory is expected to employ around 100 people and produce advanced military equipment for both the Serbian military and other countries. However, no further details about the factory's operations or production capacity have been disclosed, as Vucic mentioned the need for confidentiality around the production process. In an Instagram post, Vucic shared videos of his visit to the factory, where he inspected the site and briefly operated a drone. He described the drones as highly efficient, noting that they can "go through the windows and chase the opponent." Vucic expressed pride in the country's progress, stating that Serbia is moving toward a new level of military development. He also mentioned that warheads will be produced at Serbia's Krusik weapons factory, further expanding the country's military production capabilities. During the visit, a Serbian employee explained the drone's features to Vucic, who remarked that the technology appeared more complex than he had anticipated. The timing of the drone factory's launch comes as Vucic faces a critical political moment. Serbia will hold early parliamentary elections on October 25, which will determine whether he retains his position following nearly two years of anti-government protests. In an effort to modernize its military, Serbia has also ordered 12 French-made Rafale jets in 2024. In addition to this, the country has acquired military equipment from China and Russia, maintaining close ties with these nations despite officially seeking membership in the European Union. Vucic's government has been focused on strengthening Serbia's military and strategic position in the region, with the new drone factory representing a significant step in that direction.