In a strong show of support, Turkey has sent a major military aid package to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The delivery includes armed Bayraktar TB2 drones, Kangal anti-drone systems, and Kirpi II armored vehicles. This move could shift the balance of power in the increasingly tense Balkans.
The delivery features two armed Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), giving a significant boost to Bosnia’s defense forces. It also sends a clear message to the region during a time of rising military investments.
According to DonanımHaber, a leading Turkish technology news site, the transfer is seen as a major development amid growing military activities across the Balkans.
“We have several other projects with Turkey. We signed contracts for four Kirpi II armored vehicles and six Bayraktar TB2 drones, and talks are still ongoing,” Bosnia’s Defense Minister Zukan Helez said last year.
It has now been confirmed that the Bayraktar drones and Kangal anti-drone systems have arrived. The Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (OSBiH) have full operational control over the new equipment. Along with the drones and systems, Bosnia also received advanced ground control stations and thorough training for its military personnel.
The Ministry of Defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina called the donation both “a message of support to state institutions” and “an open demonstration of partnership with Turkey.”
Defense Minister Helez also made it clear that the Bayraktars would not create extra costs for the state budget. The drones will stay under full sovereign control.
Advanced Systems for Modern Security Challenges
The Kangal anti-drone system can disrupt and neutralize enemy drones by jamming their navigation systems. It targets GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and BEIDOU signals, making it a powerful tool against Russian, Chinese, and other foreign drones.
The Kirpi II armored vehicles meet top NATO protection standards. They offer strong protection against mines and bullets, helping to keep soldiers safe on the battlefield.
According to Turkish sources, these new systems greatly improve Bosnia’s defense, especially in the growing field of counter-drone warfare.
Tensions and a Military Buildup in the Balkans
Turkey’s military support comes at a time when the Balkans are seeing more military spending and rising tensions. Serbia has strengthened its military with Chinese drones and French Rafale fighter jets. Croatia has also modernized its air force with Rafale jets. Kosovo and Montenegro are heavily investing in their defense forces as well.
At home, Bosnia faces internal challenges. The Republika Srpska entity continues to threaten the formation of its own armed forces, which would be unconstitutional. This puts more pressure on Bosnia’s nationally unified Armed Forces.
Reports from Turkey say that Bosnia is now negotiating for four more Bayraktar TB2 drones and additional equipment. If these deals go through, Bosnia’s military could become one of the most modern forces in the region for drone and electronic warfare.
