# North Macedonia military modernization and anniversary > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/north-macedonia-military-anniversary-and-modernization > Updated: 2026-08-24T13:37:33.000Z. Sources: 25. Developments: 3. North Macedonia is marking the 34th anniversary of its army, focusing on modernization and integration into NATO security systems. To support these goals, 116 million euros—approximately 32.5 percent of the defense budget—have been allocated for 2026 to acquire equipment such as Boran artillery systems, Stryker armored vehicles, and Mistral anti-aircraft systems. Commemorative events, including ceremonial artillery fire in Skopje, military parades in Štip, and a central ceremony in Ohrid, have been held to honor the institution’s history. President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova emphasized the military’s role as a factor of stability and security within NATO, noting the need to address modern threats like cyber warfare and artificial intelligence. Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski highlighted ongoing modernization, specifically noting the delivery of JLTV and Stryker armored vehicles, the Boran artillery system, and Mistral 3 air defense systems. Recent developments show an increased focus on the domestic defense industry. Minister Misajlovski announced plans to consult with local companies to ensure a portion of the defense budget supports local manufacturing, including potential drone production. He also confirmed that 16 new agreements have been signed with the United States for various equipment, software, and solutions, noting the upcoming arrival of Leonardo helicopters. Amid these advancements, former Defense Minister and Ambassador Lazar Elenovski emphasized the necessity for North Macedonia to invest progressively in its own layered air defense. He argued that while NATO membership provides security, the country must develop national capacities and maintain a strong strategic partnership with the United States to address gaps in logistics, ammunition, and human resources. ## Claims - The Army is celebrating its 34th anniversary. (corroborated by 3 sources) - The Light Infantry battalion group was assessed as combat ready during the 'Bljesak 26' exercise. (corroborated by 3 sources) - Over 180 military personnel are deployed in Romania, Bulgaria, Latvia, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Lebanon. (corroborated by 2 sources) - More than 300 military personnel are prepared for emergency firefighting operations nationwide. (corroborated by 2 sources) - The Army is participating in the NATO NSATU mission to assist and train Ukraine. (corroborated by 2 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-08-24: North Macedonia announces military modernization and defense industry goals North Macedonia's Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski announced plans to modernize the army through new air defense systems, drones, and the development of a domestic military industry. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/north-macedonia-advances-military-modernization-and-domestic-defense-industry ### 2026-08-17: North Macedonia Defense Minister announces improved conditions for military personnel North Macedonia's Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski announced plans to increase salaries and improve working conditions for military personnel during an Army Day ceremony. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/north-macedonia-defense-minister-announces-improved-conditions-for-military-personnel ### 2026-08-17: North Macedonia Army celebrates 34th anniversary and NATO integration North Macedonia celebrated the 34th anniversary of its Army, highlighting its modernization, NATO interoperability, and ongoing participation in international peacekeeping missions. 16 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/north-macedonia-celebrates-34-years-of-its-army --- Cite as: North Macedonia military modernization and anniversary. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/north-macedonia-military-anniversary-and-modernization