Government Adopts Conclusion on Acceptance of the National Defence Investment Plan Proposal under the SAFE Mechanism (Security Action for Europe)

At its 129th session, held today, 27 November 2025, the Government of the Republic of Croatia adopted the Conclusion on the acceptance of the Proposal for the National Defence Investment Plan within the framework of the SAFE financial instrument.

With this Conclusion, the Government accepts the Proposal for the National Defence Investment Plan (European Defence Industry Investment Plan), which was supported by the Interdepartmental Committee for the Development and Strengthening of Defence Capabilities and the Defence Industry at its meeting held on 5 November 2025. This proposal is a prerequisite for the use of the SAFE financial instrument.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Ivan Anušić explained that, in accordance with the decision of the Interdepartmental Committee for the Development and Strengthening of Defence Capabilities and the Defence Industry, Croatia expressed interest in participating in the SAFE Instrument in July 2025.

“The Ministry of Defence has developed the National Defence Investment Plan through five projects, representing a formal request to the European Commission for a loan under the SAFE Credit Instrument,” said Minister Anušić.

The plan includes the procurement of 44 Leopard 2A8 battle tanks, a joint procurement of 18 Caesar self-propelled howitzers, the acquisition of heavy TATRA 6×6 and 8×8 off-road trucks, as well as two procurement projects for lethal equipment required by the Croatian Armed Forces.

In accordance with the Conclusion, the Ministry of Defence will submit the National Defence Investment Plan to the European Commission.