Marko Mrkajić: “Orao” is a Company of Strategic Importance for the Republic of Srpska
The Director of “Orao” a.d. Bijeljina, Marko Mrkajić, stated during the second day of the International Fair of Armaments and Military Equipment Partner 2025 in Belgrade that this company is of strategic importance for the Republic of Srpska. Beyond being the cornerstone of the defense industry, it continuously creates opportunities for expansion into new markets and the establishment of additional jobs.
“On the second day of the fair, the ‘Orao’ stand once again attracted a large number of visitors, including our colleagues from Tehnički Remont Bratunac, with whom we share exhibition space this year. This is a clear reminder that ‘Orao,’ with a tradition spanning more than 80 years, enjoys the trust of professionals not only in the aviation industry but also in related fields,” said Mrkajić.
He emphasized that the management of “Orao” has already held meetings with several delegations from abroad and set long-term cooperation goals, while Serbia and its Ministry of Defense remain the closest partners of the Bijeljina-based company.
“We have received encouraging messages from the leadership of both the Republic of Srpska and Serbia. It is much easier to plan further development when you know there will be support when it is most needed. From this standpoint, I can announce that starting next year, ‘Orao’ will launch a serious modernization of certain processes. We have a highly skilled workforce, proven engineers, and professionals in other fields essential to the defense industry. Therefore, from 2026, we expect ‘Orao’ to gradually gain access to new markets, new projects, and new jobs,” Mrkajić underlined.
According to him, the Republic of Srpska has a strong foundation for advancing its defense industry.
“Our joint appearance with Tehnički Remont Bratunac sends a clear message: if we want to win third markets, we must present ourselves together. ‘Orao’ is a leading aviation company in the region, and our position will only grow stronger in the coming years, as evidenced by the new agreements and partnerships signed at this year’s Partner 2025,” Mrkajić concluded.
The International Fair of Armaments and Military Equipment Partner 2025 opened on September 23 in Belgrade and will run until Friday, September 26. The fair has brought together a record number of participants — around 200 exhibitors from more than 30 countries.
