Full Breakdown
Serbia Holds First Joint Military Exercise with NATO
5/13/2026, 8:56:46 AM
Historic Joint Drill Launches in Southern Serbia
On 12 May 2026, Serbia began a two-week tactical exercise near Bujanovac in southern Serbia, marking the alliance’s first direct drill with Belgrade. The operation, titled “NATO-Serbia,” will run until 23 May and involves approximately 600 troops from Serbia, Italy, Romania and Turkey, alongside military planners and observers from several NATO members.
Background: From 1999 Bombing to a Policy of Neutrality
The exercise follows a fraught history: NATO’s 1999 air campaign against Yugoslavia targeted Belgrade during the Kosovo war, and a NATO-led peacekeeping force has remained in Kosovo ever since. Serbia has never recognized Kosovo’s independence and maintains a long-standing policy of military neutrality, while participating in NATO’s Partnership for Peace programme for nearly two decades.
Key Participants and Organizational Roles
The Serbian Ministry of Defence coordinates the drill with NATO. Participating forces include Serbian, Italian, Romanian and Turkish troops. Observers and planners from France, Germany, Italy, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States are also present. Royal Navy Commander Ian Kewley represents the alliance’s naval perspective.
Data Snapshot
Troop strength ~600; participants: Serbia, Italy, Romania, Turkey; observers: France, Germany, Italy, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States; duration 12 May–23 May 2026 (12 days).
Official Statements Emphasize Neutrality and Regional Stability
Serbian officials say the cooperation “is aimed at preserving peace and stability in the region.” A NATO spokesperson said the drill is conducted “in full respect of Serbia’s stated policy of military neutrality.” Commander Kewley noted that “the planning of this exercise has been an important part of this joint endeavour,” emphasizing seamless NATO-Serbian collaboration. The exercise runs under the Partnership for Peace framework, which Belgrade says respects its neutrality.
Domestic Sensitivities and Criticism
NATO remains a sensitive subject in Serbia because of the 1999 air campaign and the continued NATO presence in Kosovo. Some domestic critics view the joint drill as controversial, saying cooperation may clash with Serbia’s neutral stance and historical grievances.
Strategic Implications for Balkan Security
Proponents say the drill shows a commitment to regional security and may lower tensions through interoperability. It also reflects Serbia’s attempt to balance ties with NATO and Russia while keeping its declared neutrality.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The cooperation is aimed at preserving peace and stability in the region,” — Serbian Ministry of Defence
- “The planning of this exercise has been an important part of this joint endeavour. Both NATO and the Serbian Armed Forces have a long track record of major international exercise planning, so the teams were able to collaborate and deliver in a seamless way, sharing ideas and experience,” — Royal Navy Commander Ian Kewley
- “in full respect of Serbia’s stated policy of military neutrality” — NATO official (to AFP)
- “respects Serbia's military neutrality” — Belgrade statement on the Partnership for Peace programme
What’s Next: Exercise Concludes on 23 May
The drills will end on 23 May, concluding the two-week exercise.
