Serbian Air Force Intensifies J-22 Orao Training Operations
The Serbian Armed Forces have launched an expanded training cycle for pilots and ground crews operating the J-22 Orao attack aircraft. The activities are being conducted at Morava Air Base and include day and night operations in various weather conditions.
The Serbian Ministry of Defense announced that pilots of the 241st Fighter-Bomber Aviation Squadron, part of the 98th Air Brigade, are conducting intensive flight training on the J-22 Orao aircraft as part of efforts to sustain operational readiness and air support capabilities.
According to the ministry, the exercises are taking place at Morava Air Base near Kraljevo and include operations in daytime and nighttime conditions across different weather environments. The training program is intended to improve the squadron’s ability to provide aerial fire support for Serbian Armed Forces ground and special operations units.
In addition to pilot training, technical personnel from multiple specialties are participating in parallel activities focused on aircraft preparation, navigation systems, and weapons system checks. The ministry stated that the availability and safety of the aircraft fleet depend heavily on the readiness of maintenance and support crews.
The Serbian Armed Forces continue to rely on the domestically developed J-22 Orao as a core tactical strike platform despite the aircraft’s age. The platform remains in service within Serbia’s fighter-bomber aviation component while modernization and sustainment efforts continue.
Officials from the squadron indicated that low-altitude flight profiles and strike missions against tactical and infrastructure targets remain key elements of the training syllabus. The exercises also support pilot proficiency retention within the Serbian Air Force’s combat aviation branch.
The ministry additionally used the announcement to promote ongoing recruitment for aviation programs at the Military High School and Military Academy. Applications for future pilot candidates remain open until May 31, according to the ministry.
