Skopje, 31 March 2023 (MIA) - One-third of the defense budget that amounts to a record EUR 275 million is intended for the Army modernization, said Defense Minister Slavjanka Petrovska on Friday.

Petrovska told a press conference that the Ministry of Defense is procuring armored vehicles JLTV Oshkosh, of which some have already arrived, others will be delivered in stages, alongside the Stryker armored transporters and the French aier defense system Mistral 3.

She added an agreement over the procurement of an artillery system from Turkey has also been signed, while two cargo helicopters MI-8 are being repaired in the Czech Republic.

"The modernization encompasses several multiannual projects, and the Army is getting the most sophisticated equipment in line with NATO standards. We are also in the final stage of analysis for the procurement of eight multifunctional helicopters, with five offers coming from different countries," said Petrovska.

The Minister added that the procurement will be made according to the government-to-government principle in order to eliminate any corruption suspicions.

On the most recent decision to donate 12 combat helicopters, she said all donations have been approved by the Army General Staff, in line with the strategic plans and the long-term development of the defense capabilities.

"The army is being modernized and equipped with the most sophisticated armament, and there is no room for equipment manufactured in 1984 in it. The combat readiness is not compromised in any way, but on the contrary, the Army is getting stronger and more equipped in guaranteeing the security of every citizen. We decided to be efficient and pragmatic by donating the equipment that we do not need as a result of the transformation and the Army formation. If we don't do this, we will have to pay for its destruction after a while. We donated the equipment where most needed, for the defense of a country that has been brutally attacked. In this way, North Macedonia strengthens is image, its position as an ally that offers not only declarative but also real support in respecting international principles and norms," said Petrovska.

She added that allies have recognized the country's potential as partner, resulting in support for the Army's modernization exceeding EUR 135 million in the last year alone.

Photo: MIA