At the end of December, the Ministry of Defense and the Serbian Armed Forces officially unveiled a series of photographs and videos showcasing one of the modern FK-3 air defense systems acquired from China. The official disclosure provided not only new images of the missile launcher vehicles but also detailed views of the system’s other components, including detection and fire control radars, as well as command and control vehicles.
In 2019, the Serbian government finalized the purchase of four FK-3 air defense batteries from the People’s Republic of China. The FK-3 is the export version of the HQ-22 system currently in service with the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF).
The systems arrived in Serbia in 2022 via an airlift operation involving Y-20 strategic transport aircraft, which landed at Belgrade Airport in April. Since then, the FK-3 systems have been assigned to the Serbian Armed Forces’ 250th Air Defense Missile Brigade and made their debut during the “SHIELD 2022” exercises, operating alongside other assets and platforms.
Following the recent release of images, the Serbian Ministry of Defense highlighted the FK-3’s impact, stating:
“The system for airspace control and protection has been significantly improved in the Republic of Serbia. This highly maneuverable missile system, which safeguards Serbian skies, comprises a command center vehicle, rocket launchers, radars, and logistical vehicles.”
The 250th Air Defense Missile Brigade has praised the FK-3’s capabilities, with Captain Manić, commander of one of the system’s batteries, emphasizing its advanced features:
“The FK-3 has an exceptional anti-jamming system and the ability to counter missiles designed to destroy tracking radars. Its remarkable maneuverability and spatial efficiency make it a leading system among new-generation air defense platforms. It is equipped with sophisticated technology and boasts exceptional firepower, capable of engaging six aerial targets simultaneously with 12 missiles.”
Additionally, Serbian crews underwent intensive and complex training in China to master the operation of this advanced system. Highlighting its performance, Serbia’s defense ministry described the FK-3 as capable of countering “aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and air-to-ground missiles traveling at speeds of up to 1,000 m/s, at altitudes of up to 27 km and ranges of up to 100 km. It is designed to defend government buildings, industrial facilities, SAF troops, and territory from aerial reconnaissance and attacks.”
With this acquisition, Serbia has become the first European operator of a Chinese-origin air defense system, joining Thailand as the only other global operator. Analysts have noted that the FK-3, derived from the HQ-22, offers capabilities comparable to the U.S.-made Patriot and Russia’s S-300 air defense systems.
Photographs: Serbian Ministry of Defense
