26.05.2026.

241st Fighter-Bomber Squadron conducts intensive training on Orao aircraft

To enhance their capability of providing aerial fire support to SAF ground troops and special forces, pilots of the 241^st Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 98^th Air Brigade, are currently conducting intensive training on Orao (Eagle) aircraft in all weather conditions, during both daytime and night-time.

Preparations for night flying training are currently underway at the Morava military airfield in Lađevci near Kraljevo. In addition to pilots, the training also includes technicians of all specialties whose preparation, inspections, and assessments of the airworthiness of aircraft and their navigation and weapons systems are critical for ensuring the safety, good working order, and availability of the aircraft for combat and flight missions.

Lieutenant Colonel Saša Stojiljković, Commander of the 241^st Fighter-Bomber Squadron, explains that being a pilot is simply something you have to love.

— All my colleagues share the same passion for flying, a passion that comes from doing something you truly enjoy, which is the greatest benefit of the job. Another advantage is that we get to experience things most people don’t in everyday life: seeing things from a bird’s-eye view and the freedom of manoeuvre in the air, which is something beyond words. Even today, after more than 20 years of flying, I still approach flying with the same enthusiasm, that feeling in my stomach, and the same ardour. That is something you simply cannot describe in words, and I wish everyone could experience it, because it is something that motivates us to keep improving and advancing our careers as pilots – Lieutenant Colonel Stojiljković emphasizes.

Pilot Second Lieutenant Đorđe Colić emphasizes that every young person who wishes to become a pilot should be mentally and physically prepared, but also disciplined and ready for great sacrifices during their career.

— For me, the turning point was a familiarization flight on the Utva aircraft. After landing, I felt special and important, as if this was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Only after graduating from the Military Academy did I move on to the J-22 Orao aircraft, and over the past two years I’ve really started to love it. My squadron’s main characteristic is very low flying, as well as engaging strategic targets such as bridges and vehicle convoys, which brings an even higher dose of adrenaline than flying other types of aircraft - said the pilot from the squadron known as “Tigrovi” (Tigers), adding that he loves being a pilot so much that he would like to pass that love on to future generations.

Young men and women who want to become Serbian Armed Forces pilots can apply until May 31 for the aviation programmes at the Military Grammar School and the Military Academy and get the chance to fly modern airplanes and helicopters whose introduction into service has strengthened the capabilities of the Serbian Air Force’s fleet.