Serbian Armed Forces Helicopter Pilots Undergoing Combat Training
Wednesday, 25.3.2026 | Training
Combat training with Mi-35 helicopters is underway in the 714th Anti-Tank Helicopter Squadron “Shadows”, based at the Military Airfield “Morava” in Lađevci.
The activities are carried out in the vicinity of Kraljevo and above the military training grounds and represent the final part of the winter training cycle. The goal is to maintain and improve the level of skills of the aviation and technical staff and ensure the readiness of the unit to provide air support to the SAF land forces while conducting operations.
The tactics, techniques and procedures are practiced while performing flight tasks in a group of several aircraft, along with engaging ground targets at the “Pasuljanske Livade” training ground. The results achieved so far confirm the high level of the helicopter crews’ combat capability.
Lieutenant Viktor Teodosić, an Mi-35 helicopter pilot, points out that the flight task is preceded by multiple preparations, the outcome of the flight itself depending on their successful implementation.
— During the preliminary preparation, the pilots prepare for the implementation of the task, familiarize themselves with the flight plan and perform individual preparation. During the executive preparation, they become familiar with the weather situation and other air traffic that can influence the execution of the task. After completing the flight, we start analyzing the flight training - explains Lieutenant Teodosić.
Second Lieutenant Luka Labović says that for him the vocation of a military pilot means the fulfillment of his childhood dream.
— I have always dreamed of being a pilot of the fighter helicopter that this squadron possesses. The squadron is specific in that it carries out an anti-tank helicopter combat and operates near the front - said Lt. Labović, taking the opportunity to invite young people to apply for the current competitions for the Serbian Armed Forces’ pilots.
Young men and women willing to become the Serbian Armed Forces pilots have the opportunity to apply for it until March 31. Graduates who have completed four-year studies can apply for the SAF Reserve Aviation Officers Course, while those who have completed a four-year high school or are attending the fourth year of high school can apply for the Military Aviation Study Program at the Military Academy.
