Marko Mrkajić: The Domestic Aviation Industry as a Pillar of Military Equipment Maintenance and Modernization
Marko Mrkajić, Acting Director of Orao a.d. Bijeljina, attended today’s military parade “Power of Unity”, organized by the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Serbia. During the ceremonial display of the Serbian Armed Forces’ capabilities over Belgrade, various aircraft flew overhead – from MiG-29 fighters and modernized Orao jets, to C-295 CASA transport aircraft and Mi-35M and H-145 helicopters.
Traditionally, special attention was drawn to the Orao aircraft, whose engines are overhauled at the Orao a.d. Bijeljina facility. On this occasion, Mrkajić emphasized the importance of the domestic aviation industry being recognized as a cornerstone in the maintenance and modernization of military equipment.
Photo: Branislav Milošević / "Orao" aircraft in flight
“Cooperation between domestic overhaul capacities and the Ministry of Defence is crucial for preserving the operational capabilities of aviation. Engine overhaul and upgrades not only extend the service life of aircraft but also enable their modernization in line with contemporary requirements,” Mrkajić highlighted.
For decades, Orao a.d. Bijeljina has held a strategic role in the regional military-industrial complex, and its participation in the “Power of Unity” parade symbolically reaffirms that the factory’s results are embedded in the security and strength of the Serbian Armed Forces.
