24.12.2025.
Message from the Minister of Defence on the occasion of Air Force and Air Defence Day
Minister of Defence Bratislav Gašić has sent a message on the occasion of December 24 - Air Force and Air Defence Day, which reads as follows:
"On the occasion of December 24 – Air Force and Air Defence Day, I extend my congratulations to all members of the service.
On this day, exactly 113 years ago, Field Marshal Radomir Putnik issued a decree establishing the Aviation Command, based in Niš.
From its first organizational steps, through participation in numerous missions and challenges, to modern technological and structural reforms, the development of the Air Force and Air Defence has always been based on the knowledge, professionalism, and perseverance of the people who carried out their tasks with full dedication.
Drawing on the experience of past generations, your units foster values such as courage, responsibility, and dedication, while at the same time developing new skills and values required by modern security challenges. Reliability, expertise, and exceptional operational readiness remain your most distinctive characteristics.
In recent period, you have achieved remarkable results. By participating in numerous national and international exercises, and especially in the Power of Unity military parade, you have once again shown that the true power of our armed forces lies in their unity, togetherness, trust, and a clear understanding of a common goal – safeguarding peace in Serbia, as well as the country’s strength.
In 2025, a major step forward has been made in the development and modernization of units. Modern helicopters, radar and missile systems, defence electronics, combat systems, and engineering equipment have been introduced into service. In the period ahead, our focus remains on procuring and modernizing equipment, investing in training and professional development, and improving the living and working conditions of all personnel because a strong military is built not only through modern technology and expertise but also by ensuring dignified conditions for the people who serve in it.
I congratulate you on your anniversary, with the hope that in the coming period you will continue to address every challenge with equal success, further strengthening our country’s defence and security system.
