American General: From whom does Serbia protect itself with the Russian anti-missile system?

Former Commander General of American Land Forces in Europe General Frederick Ben Hodgis questioned the sending of the first part of Russia's air defence system, Pancir, to Serbia, which Serbia believes must be protected, the Voice of America reported.

I wonder what these systems serve. From whom do you think Serbia should be protected? The West is ruthless in finding a way to approach Serbia. And there is no threat to Serbia,” said Hodgis for the Voice of America.

According to him, in a much better way Serbia can invest valuable funds, build infrastructure and create jobs, which would give young Serbian citizens confidence in a better future. “instead of buying expensive weapons systems against non-existence threats from the air,” he praised.

The amount Serbia paid for Russia for the Panicr S missile system is unknown to the public. In the global military equipment market, this type of missile system costs between $13 and 14.6m, depending on the version, the Voice of America added.

Hodges said countries have the right to choose military equipment and weapons suppliers.

Serbian Defence Minister Alexander Vulin has confirmed that the first part of the Pancir S1 air defence system from Russia has been delivered to Batajnica airport.

The deal for the purchase of the Pancir system battery was linked between Serbia and Russia in 2019.

The artillery-missile system for anti-technical operations “Panzer S1” is destined for protection against air from air detection and air operations, as well as for the protection of air defence units and other war equipment.

Recall that, Serbia's frequent arms purchases from Russia have raised concerns both in Brussels and Washington, and in November 2019,

US Special Representative for the Western Balkans Matthew Palmer responded to this phenomenon, not excluding sanctions on Serbia for buying Russian military equipment.