Just before the CAiF’s 33rd anniversary, the eighth mighty Rafale arrived to Croatia

The eighth Rafale multipurpose fighter jet landed today, on 11 December 2024 at 12:22 p.m. by “Colonel Marko Živković” barracks at Pleso.

Towards the 33rd anniversary of its foundation, the Croatian Air Force has eight Rafale multi-purpose fighter jets in its structure.

This is the biggest step forward in modernization of the CAiF and the most important strategic project.

Jagodić: In expectation of the CAiF Day, this event confirms our commitment to modernization of the CAiF.

On this occasion, the Commander of the CAiF’s 91st wing, Colonel Cristian Jagodić pointed out that the equipping of the CAiF with modern multi-purpose combat airplanes is a significant technical breakthrough that enables the modernization of the air force and the increase of operational capability, thereby strengthening our defence power.

“The arrival of the eighth Rafale airplane to Croatia on the eve of the CAiF’s Day is a significant moment for the 91st wing, our air force, for the Croatian Army and for the overall security of our country. With the Rafale, we are also turning into a stronger partner in the NATO alliance and the security architecture of Europe. In anticipation of the CAiF’s Day, this event confirms our commitment to modernization of the CAiF and safety of the Croatian skies,” Colonel Jagodić said.

Specifically, it is planned that by the end of April 2025, all 12 Rafale airplanes will be in Croatia (ten single-seaters and two two-seaters), and the Squadron of fighter jets will be complete.

The CAiF also includes a new flight simulator that will enable a complete spectrum of training and validation of tactics, as well as ground and test equipment.