Soaring Eagles Over Serbia
When the chance arose to photograph the Soko J‑22 Orao air‑to‑air in August 2025, it was impossible to resist. The twin‑engined Serbian Air Force & Air Defence strike aircraft are among the rarest fast jets still flying in Europe. Only around 17 of the 1970s‑designed machines are believed to remain in service, all operated by 241. lbae at Ladjevci, roughly 70 miles south of Belgrade.
The Orao, Serbian for “Eagle”, has long been high on my wishlist. Yet opportunities to see Serbian military aircraft up close are exceptionally limited. Domestic airshows are infrequent and often poorly publicised, and any attempt at spotting is a quick route to unwanted attention from the authorities. Serbian aircraft seldom travel abroad for airshows or exercises, making public encounters frustratingly rare. So when the Aviation Photocrew announced an Orao air‑to‑air photoshoot, securing a seat on the Skyvan became a priority.
The flight took place on Friday 29th August, with photoship Shorts Skyvan OE‑FDN launching from Ladjevci for a session with two twin‑stick NJ‑22 Oraos. Unlike many air‑to‑air subjects that can sit comfortably behind the Skyvan, the Oraos were unable to hold position directly behind the aircraft - whether due to aircraft limitations or pilot preference, I’m not sure. Instead, the pair flew racetrack patterns, flying below or alongside the Skyvan on each circuit. Every pass brought them gradually closer to the photoshop, with confidence growing as the shoot progressed.
Following the morning session, the Skyvan repositioned to Veliki Radinci Airfield, home of the Galeb Team. Once overhead, we were joined by two of their G‑2A Galebs for a second shoot. The former Yugoslav Air Force trainers flew confidently around the Skyvan, allowing for compositions that contrasted their classic jets against the Serbian countryside.
The following day delivered an unexpected highlight: the opportunity to photograph a MiG‑29 Fulcrum C in full QRA configuration, armed with a pair of R‑60 (AA‑8 Aphid) air‑to‑air missiles. Operated by 101. lae at Batajnica Air Base, Serbia’s MiG‑29s maintain 24/7 quick‑reaction alert coverage. Capturing an operationally configured Fulcrum airborne—let alone on a Saturday morning—is an exceptionally rare privilege.
My thanks go to Aviation Photocrew, the Serbian Air Force & Air Defence, the Galeb Team, Prince Aviation, and my good friend Peter for an unforgettable few days in Serbia.
