Kosovo discusses purchase of Black Hawk helicopters with US

On the sidelines of the Warsaw Security Forum 2026, Kosovo's Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, held a meeting with the US Permanent Representative to NATO, Ambassador Matthew Whitaker, where the focus was on advancing bilateral cooperation in the field of defense and coordination on issues of common interest.

"Minister Makedonci expressed gratitude for the continued support and contribution of the United States to Kosovo, the Ministry of Defense and the Kosovo Security Force. He emphasized the special importance of cooperation with the Iowa National Guard, which has been developing for more than 15 years within the framework of the State Partnership Program. This partnership is strengthening our capacities through training, joint exercises and exchange of experiences.

For his part, Ambassador Whitaker expressed support for Kosovo's journey towards NATO integration and continued American support for the development of Kosovo's defense capabilities.

Cooperation between the two countries is also expanding in the fields of military procurement and the defense industry. During the meeting, the development of our capacities was discussed, including the systems purchased from the USA and the procedures initiated for the purchase of Black Hawk helicopters. The importance of supporting the development of the domestic defense industry in Kosovo was also emphasized.

Minister Maqedonci reiterated the need for support for Kosovo on its path to NATO membership, as well as for expanding access for our military personnel to NATO programs and schools. Also discussed was the further development of cooperation with NATO regarding the presence and optimization of KFOR, as well as the normalization of Kosovo's airspace.

At this meeting, Minister Maqedonci expressed interest in exploring opportunities for cooperation based on the principle of responsibility sharing, including at Camp Bondsteel and Gjakova Airport. He also emphasized the importance of Kosovo's contribution to the International Stabilization Force in Gaza, as evidence of our country's readiness to assume responsibility and contribute to international peace and security.

At the end of the meeting, Minister Maqedonci invited Ambassador Whitaker to visit Kosovo, to continue the dialogue and advance cooperation between the two countries.

"The partnership with the US remains essential for the development of our defense capabilities and for Kosovo's Euro-Atlantic future," the Kosovo Ministry of Defense said in a statement.

The GeoPost