A total of 52 members of the 18th Croatian Contingent, including two female members, are deploying to NATO Forward Land Forces in Poland with Bradley infantry fighting vehicles. The commander of the Bradley infantry fighting vehicle platoon is First Lieutenant Stjepan Pandžić.

Addressing the members of the 18th Croatian Contingent, State Secretary at the Ministry of Defence Tomislav Galić, representing the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, said:

“I am proud that we are demonstrating our capabilities in an international environment and that, for the first time, we are deploying a platoon of Bradley infantry fighting vehicles to a NATO activity.”

“This contingent, together with the equipment and capabilities we are deploying to Poland, is yet another confirmation that the Croatian Armed Forces are keeping pace with contemporary security challenges and that we are ready to assume the responsibilities that NATO membership entails,” State Secretary Galić said.

State Secretary Galić also expressed his special appreciation to the families of the members of the 18th Croatian Contingent:

“Your understanding, support and patience are an integral part of every successfully  completed task carried out by our soldiers.”

Brigadier General Željko Ljubas, Commander of the Command and Operations Centre, said that the Croatian Armed Forces are currently participating in around ten missions, operations and activities around the world, stressing that their most important task is to contribute to peace and stability worldwide.

General Ljubas emphasised:
“The objective of this mission is to strengthen interoperability and combat readiness through training with the other members of the battlegroup. This significantly contributes to the development of the capabilities of the Croatian Armed Forces and strengthens deterrence and the collective defence of the North Atlantic Alliance.”

Bradley Platoon Commander: We Will Proudly Carry the Croatian Flag and Wear the Sokolovi Beret”

First Lieutenant Stjepan Pandžić, Commander of the Bradley infantry fighting vehicle platoon, speaking on behalf of the 18th Croatian Contingent, said:

“The military profession has never been easy, but we carry out duties with pride. We are aware of the responsibility we have towards our homeland, our fellow service members and our families waiting for us at home. It is precisely this sense of responsibility that is the source of the strength of our calling and the dignity of our service.”

“Deployment to the Republic of Poland is not merely a military task; it is also a confirmation of our professionalism and commitment. Our task is to demonstrate the high level of responsibility, knowledge, skills and training of the Croatian soldier. We will proudly carry the Croatian flag and wear the Sokolovi beret, mindful of the values we represent,” First Lieutenant Pandžić said.

In Poland, Croatian soldiers will be stationed at the Bemowo Piskie Training Area as part of a US-led battlegroup comprising personnel from the armed forces of the United States, the United Kingdom and Romania. The battle group reinforces the 15th Mechanised Brigade of the Polish Armed Forces, as the host nation.

The battlegroup’s tasks in Poland include enhancing combat readiness through joint training and exercises, as well as the continuous improvement of defence planning.

The formal farewell ceremony was attended by the families and friends of the members of the 18th HRVCON, as well as State Secretary at the Ministry of Defence Tomislav Galić, representing the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; Commander of the Command and Operations Centre Brigadier General Željko Ljubas; Commander of the Guards Armoured Mechanised Brigade Brigadier General Željko Marinov; and members of the Croatian Armed Forces.

Objava 18th Croatian Contingent Deployed to NATO Forward Land Forces  in Poland pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

The Government adopted five further decisions on the equipping, modernisation and construction of the Croatian Armed Forces, enabling the Ministry of Defence to additionally equip Rafale aircraft with detection and self-protection capabilities, upgrade the Croatian Air Force’s combat communications system, procure anti-armour weapons and equipment, modernise the AN/FPS-117 radar system, and construct a hangar at Zemunik Air Base.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković said: “Croatia is investing in its defence capabilities, not to threaten anyone, but to deter any threat, guarantee the security of Croatian citizens, territory and national interests, and thereby contribute to the collective security and defence of Europe.”

He said that Russia’s aggression against Ukraine had demonstrated how important long-range precision-strike capabilities, modern air defence, a high-quality intelligence picture, and secure and protected communications are for defence and deterrence. He also recalled that, at last year’s NATO Summit, the Allies committed to allocating at least 3.5 per cent of GDP to defence and security and up to 1.5 per cent of GDP to defence- and security-related spending by 2035.

Referring to the procurement of 18 South Korean Chunmoo K239 long-range self-propelled multiple rocket launchers, the Prime Minister emphasised: “After the Rafales, this is one of the largest and most important investments in the modernisation of the Croatian Armed Forces since the end of the Homeland War.”

“The Government of the Republic of Croatia is implementing a historic modernisation and equipping of the Croatian Armed Forces. This is a direct investment in the security of the Croatian people. By introducing the Chunmoo K239 rocket system into the Croatian Armed Forces, the Ministry of Defence will provide the capability to conduct operations with precise and effective fire support at short, medium and long ranges. Chunmoo is a modern and powerful rocket system and is one of the few wheeled multiple rocket launchers capable of carrying two rocket modules simultaneously on a single launcher, including modules with different types of munitions. Delivery of the complete package is planned within 24 to 36 months,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić said.

The Chunmoo K239 is designed to provide rapid and flexible fire support across a wide range of missions, from neutralising tactical targets and concentrations of forces and destroying facilities to engaging high-value strategic targets deep within the adversary’s disposition.

Following completion of the procurement procedure, contracts have been prepared with the South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace and the Polish company WB Electronics. The procurement from Hanwha Aerospace will include 18 K239 Chunmoo self-propelled launchers with rocket munitions, while the contract with WB Electronics will provide for the delivery, installation and integration of the command-and-control system.

For this procurement, the Government authorised the Ministry of Defence to acquire non-financial assets in the amount of EUR 544,050,898.75 including VAT, to be implemented from 2026 to 2029. The payment obligation for this procurement in 2026 amounts to EUR 108,810,179.75 including VAT.

By a second decision, the Government granted prior approval to the Ministry of Defence to assume obligations to be charged to the state budget from 2027 to 2029 for this procurement, in the total amount of EUR 435,240,719 including VAT.
“Due to relatively short delivery times of 24–36 months, better availability, lower prices and openness to industrial cooperation, European countries — the Republic of Poland, the Republic of Estonia and the Kingdom of Norway — are increasingly opting to equip themselves with this unique multiple rocket launcher system,” Minister Anušić said.

Rafale

In December 2025, the Croatian and French Ministries of Defence signed a Letter of Intent on the acquisition of enhanced Rafale aircraft capabilities, expressing their intention to further equip and modernise Rafale aircraft from the F3-R operational standard with enhanced F4-standard capabilities.

Today, the Government adopted a decision enabling this modernisation, which includes the acquisition of an additional detection capability that would equip the aircraft with a fully passive detection system meeting the F4 standard and significantly increase detection capabilities at long distances, both day and night.

By using these systems without emitting electromagnetic radiation, the aircraft remains “invisible” to adversary electromagnetic sensors. The equipment will be provided by the French company Dassault Aviation, the original aircraft manufacturer and representative of the companies producing the aircraft’s components, and the only economic operator capable of equipping the aircraft with these systems.

The total value of the non-financial assets to be acquired and the total obligations of the Ministry of Defence amount to EUR 112,224,015.92 including VAT for the period from 2026 to 2032. By a second decision, the Government granted prior approval to the Ministry of Defence to assume obligations to be charged to the state budget from 2027 to 2032 for equipping Rafale aircraft with additional detection and self-protection capabilities, in the total amount of EUR 88,471,727.42 including VAT.

Croatian Air Force Combat Communications System

The Government adopted a decision authorising the Ministry of Defence to assume obligations for the upgrade of the Croatian Air Force combat communications system. The upgrade includes the installation of communications subsystems, a data communications subsystem, and equipment for the protection of data and communications.

The most economically advantageous tender was submitted jointly by THALES and the Croatian company Odašiljači i veze d.o.o., acting as a consortium of tenderers, for the voice communications subsystem. Under the proposal, THALES would manufacture the radio equipment and command-and-control system, while Odašiljači i veze d.o.o. would carry out the installation in Croatia and testing in accordance with NATO standards.

A comparative advantage of THALES is the fact that THALES radio equipment for both voice and data communications is installed on Rafale aircraft. Installing the same equipment at ground radio sites would therefore ensure standardisation and consequently lower maintenance costs.

Furthermore, THALES has transferred technology to the Croatian company Odašiljači i veze, with which it concluded a Consortium Agreement at the end of 2025. In this way, Odašiljači i veze acquired additional competencies and capabilities for the installation and maintenance of these systems for NATO member states.
The Government authorised the Ministry of Defence to acquire non-financial assets in the amount of EUR 41,061,558.75 including VAT. By a second decision, it granted prior approval to the Ministry of Defence to assume obligations to be charged to the state budget from 2027 to 2030 for the upgrade of the system, in the total amount of EUR 23,181,708.75 including VAT.

Modernisation of the AN/FPS-117 Radar System

On 20 December 2024, the Government adopted a Decision on the acquisition of non-financial assets for the Ministry of Defence through the modernisation of the AN/FPS-117 radar system in the amount of EUR 45,000,000 including VAT for the period from 2024 to 2026.

The modernisation of the radar system is being implemented through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA).

The total amount of non-financial assets to be acquired through the modernisation of the AN/FPS-117 radar system remains unchanged at EUR 45,000,000 including VAT. According to the current stage of implementation, completion of the modernisation is planned for 2027.

Of the remaining EUR 17,000,000 including VAT, EUR 6,250,000 including VAT is planned to be implemented in 2026 and EUR 10,750,000 including VAT in 2027.
The Government adopted a decision granting prior approval to the Ministry of Defence to assume obligations to be charged to the state budget in 2027 for the modernisation of the radar system, in the total amount of EUR 10,750,000 including VAT.

Anti-Armour Weapons and Equipment

The Government also adopted a decision authorising the Ministry of Defence to conclude a contract for the procurement of anti-armour weapons and equipment.
A draft contract has been prepared with the bidder EuroSpike GmbH of the Federal Republic of Germany in the amount of EUR 13,898,546.78 including VAT, of which EUR 3,000,000 including VAT is to be paid in 2026 and EUR 10,898,546.78 including VAT in 2029.

The Government granted prior approval to the Ministry of Defence to assume obligations to be charged to the state budget in 2029 for this procurement, in the amount of EUR 10,898,546.78 including VAT.

Hangar at Zemunik Air Base

The Ministry of Defence conducted a public procurement procedure for the construction of a multifunctional aircraft maintenance hangar and auxiliary buildings at Zemunik Air Base. The tender submitted by Radnik d.d. was selected, in the amount of EUR 12,172,648.13 including VAT.

According to the planned contract implementation schedule, payments are planned for 2026, 2027 and 2028.

The payment obligation for this procurement in 2026 amounts to EUR 1,000,000 including VAT, while the Government, by its decision, granted prior approval to the Ministry of Defence to assume obligations to be charged to the funds of the state budget of the Republic of Croatia in 2027 and 2028, in the total amount of EUR 11,172,648.13 including VAT.

Objava Government Adopts Decision to Procure 18 Self-Propelled Chunmoo K239 Multiple Rocket Launchers and Additional Equipment for Rafale Aircraft pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

The visit was also attended by the Defence Attaché of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Republic of Croatia, Lieutenant Colonel Burkhard Weber, and Deputy Commander of the Croatian Army, Brigadier General Valentin Skroza.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić had previously approved Croatian Armed Forces support for the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg in the Federal Republic of Germany after the Croatian Armed Forces were asked for assistance due to the risk of futher deterioration of the ship.

“This is a specific task through which we demonstrate the capabilities, knowledge and skills of our military engineers and the Croatian Army. The Croatian Armed Forces became involved when the ship was at a risk of further deterioration, and we will complete our part of the task from start to finish. This galley will be returned to Germany thanks to the Croatian Armed Forces. Croatia and the Federal Republic of Germany have a strategic partnership and longstanding, strong diplomatic and friendly relations, and we are continuing to develop this cooperation through the Croatian Armed Forces as well,” Minister Anušić said.

The Defence Attaché of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Republic of Croatia, Lieutenant Colonel Burkhard Weber, stressed that after he was asked for assistance, it became clear that only the Croatian Armed Forces could carry out such a serious and demanding task. He noted that the Croatian Armed Forces had constructed an access route within a very short period of time, while the ship was additionally secured with wooden beams due to the instability of its structure.

“I would like to thank Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić and Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid, for their swift response and for making the necessary decisions and issuing the necessary orders that enabled the operation to begin. As a German, I see this as yet another example and demonstration of the excellent cooperation between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Republic of Croatia, not only in the military field but also in many areas of civilian life,” Lieutenant Colonel Weber said.

Croatian Armed Forces involvement

Eighteen Croatian Armed Forces personnel are taking part in supporting the recovery of the ship: twelve from the Engineer Battalion of the Guards Armoured Mechanised Brigade and six from the Engineer Regiment. Following approval by the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the General Staff, a Croatian Armed Forces engineering unit was tasked with the operation.

“This is an 18-metre-long Roman galley weighing five tonnes, a replica of a Roman ship. Due to the low water level of the Drava River, the situation required an urgent response to prevent further deterioration of the ship. At the request of the German Defence Attaché, we found a solution and determined that the Croatian Armed Forces, with their engineering capabilities, could save the ship,” said Deputy Commander of the Croatian Army, Brigadier General Valentin Skroza.

“Our engineers have the knowledge and capabilities required for tasks such as this. They are trained and prepared to operate in a variety of situations,” Brigadier General Skroza said, adding that one of the missions of the Croatian Armed Forces is to assist civilian institutions.

“If we had waited another five days, the ship would have deteriorated beyond repair because its entire structure is made of wood. Wood has specific properties, and as it dries, cracks develop, which cause the ship to lose its structural integrity. That is why the structure is now being continuously watered in order to restore it as closely as possible to its original condition and enable the ship to be returned to the water,” Brigadier General Skroza explained.

Croatian Armed Forces personnel have also constructed sliding “skids” along which the ship is expected to slide towards the water. The Engineer Regiment has transported a tugboat to the Riverboat Company in Osijek so that the ship can be towed after being relaunched. The operation involves the use of an excavator, bulldozer, backhoe loader, cargo vehicle, maintenance workshop, tugboat and two boats.

Due to the complexity of the operation, the relaunch has been postponed until next week. According to the current plan, it is scheduled for Wednesday, 26 August. By then, the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg is expected to arrange for the delivery of specialised lifting spreader beams and a low-loader trailer. Following the relaunch, the ship is expected to be towed to the Luka Tranzit Osijek, where it will be lifted from the water using a specialised loading crane operated by the Port Authority and loaded onto a transport vehicle – a low-loader trailer.

The Croatian Armed Forces’ engagement in this operation demonstrates that, in addition to their primary defence mission, the Croatian Armed Forces possess capabilities that can be made available to civilian institutions in a variety of circumstances.

Minister Anušić and Brigadier General Skroza thanked the Director of Luka Tranzit Osijek, Igor Bartolović, and the Director of the Port Authority Osijek, Dr Iva Horvat, for their assistance and cooperation in carrying out the ship recovery operation.

Objava Anušić Visits Croatian Armed Forces Personnel Involved in the Recovery of a Replica Roman ship pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

A total of 1,000 male and female conscripts – 947 men and 53 women – have been assigned to basic military training. Of these, 243 candidates volunteered to join, including 190 men and 53 women.

During the call-up of recruits for the third intake, only 1.3 percent of candidates filed an objection on grounds of conscience.

Ivan Anušić, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence highlighted that the introduction of the fourth location for the implementation of Basic Military Training (TVO) in Vinkovci has increased the capacity to a total of 1,000 conscripts per intake.

“For the first time, 100 recruits are undergoing training in Vinkovci as of today, and we are continuing to increase, intake by intake, the number of young people entering our barracks. In a short period of time, we have increased the capacity from 800 conscripts per intake to 1,000 in this intake of Basic Military Training,” Minister Anušić said.

The Minister expressed his satisfaction with the response of young people to Basic Military Training, noting that a large number of candidates are responding to the call-up, while the number of those filing conscientious objections remains very low.

“We are continuing with Basic Military Training. It is one of the most successful projects of the Ministry of Defence and the Croatian Armed Forces in recent years, and it has been a complete success,” the Minister said.

He added that the experience of previous intakes shows that young people complete the training satisfied, having gained new knowledge and experience, while some of them recognize the Croatian Armed Forces as an opportunity to pursue a professional military career precisely during their Basic Military Training.

First Conscripts in Vinkovci

Among the first 100 conscripts to undergo training in Vinkovci are young men from Vukovar-Srijem County. Their first impressions reflect a range of motivations for joining – from the desire to gain new experiences and military knowledge to considering a future career in the Croatian Armed Forces.

Tomislav Paljušaj from Bogdanovci was called up for Basic Military Training, while Luka Trnjar from Privlaka voluntarily applied because he wanted to experience military training and, as he put it, decide after completing it whether pursuing a military career would be right for him.

Antonio Macakić from Ivankovo voluntarily enrolled with the intention of remaining in the Croatian Armed Forces after completing Basic Military Training.

His school friend Leon Cajbert also decided to experience Basic Military Training firsthand rather than relying on the experiences of others.

“I do not have any particular expectations at the moment; we will see how things develop over time. I also plan to continue with specialist military training afterwards.”

Matej Klišić from Nuštar is also considering pursuing a military career. His decision to try military service was further influenced by his family’s ties to the Armed Forces and friends who have already chosen a military career.

“I decided to apply voluntarily for Basic Military Training and perhaps continue my career in the Croatian Armed Forces.”

Instructors with extensive experience working with soldiers and conscripts have also been assigned to conduct the training in Vinkovci.

Sergeant First Class Josip Kokić has 13 years of experience as an instructor and senior instructor in specialist military training, while Corporal Ivana Sadrić, a member of the Guards Mechanized Brigade, has taken on an instructor role for the first time.

“I will be training eight conscripts in my group, and I believe they will be motivated to successfully master all tasks.”

Basic Military Training Capacity Increased to 1,000 Conscripts

For this intake, training capacity has been increased by 100 places, which have been provided at the barracks in Vinkovci.

Of the total 1,000 male and female conscripts, 300 will undergo training in Knin, 400 in Požega, 200 in Slunj and 100 in Vinkovci.

Training capacity has been gradually increased since the first intake, when 800 places were available. For the second intake, capacity was increased to 900, while for this, the third intake, it has been increased to a total of 1,000 male and female conscripts.

Over the course of two months, conscripts will learn basic military skills – from handling personal weapons and using modern equipment, including drones, to providing first aid and learning the fundamentals of self-defence. As part of their training, they will also learn about key military operations from the Croatian Homeland War.

The training is conducted by experienced Croatian Armed Forces instructors with many years of experience working with conscripts.

The aim of Basic Military Training is to enable young people to acquire fundamental military knowledge and skills needed in crisis situations and to contribute to national security.

Upon completion of the training, conscripts become part of the reserve component of the Croatian Armed Forces, thereby contributing to strengthening the country’s defence readiness.

Objava Minister Anušić: More and more young people are entering military barracks; we have increased the third TVO intake to 1,000 conscripts pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

Ivan Anušić, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, stated that being in Knin fills him primarily with pride and happiness because Croatia achieved what few believed was possible.

“What began in 1991 was completed in 1995. We brought the war to an end and secured victory. Today, we have a free and independent Croatian state – a member of all the Euro-Atlantic institutions we aspired to join. We have achieved what generations dreamed of and for which countless lives were sacrificed,” the minister said.

He emphasised that Operation Storm was the largest and most successful military and police operation in Croatian history and paid tribute to all Croatian defenders who laid down their lives for the nation’s freedom.

“We are here to pay tribute to them, to remember those times and those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and to reunite with our fellow veterans with whom we shared those historic days,” Minister Anušić said. He added that Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day, Croatian Veterans Day, and the anniversary of Operation Storm should be commemorated in a spirit of unity, with the shared goal of building a stronger and more resilient Croatia for the future.

Ceremony Participants Highlight Operation Storm’s Legacy

In their addresses, speakers highlighted the importance of preserving the truth about the Homeland War, fostering national unity, and maintaining lasting respect for veterans.

Robert Puja, President of the 7th Guards Brigade Veterans Association, said that his memories of the events of August 1995 remain as vivid as ever. “It was a magnificent victorious operation in which the vast majority of the temporarily occupied territory of the Republic of Croatia was liberated within a very short period. That is why August 5th will forever remain a symbol of Croatia’s victory, unity, and freedom,” he said.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković described Operation Storm as a turning point in Croatian history. “Operation Storm was a brilliant military victory, a legitimate liberation operation, and the crowning achievement of Croatia’s struggle for freedom,” he said, adding that Croatia continues to invest in strengthening its defence capabilities in response to contemporary security challenges. “Investing in defence is not preparation for war; it is an investment in peace and the security of our citizens.”

Speaker of the Croatian Parliament Gordan Jandroković emphasized that Operation Storm was a just liberation operation that liberated the vast part of Croatia’s temporarily occupied territory paving the way for the successful conclusion of the Homeland War. “No historical revisionism can challenge that historical fact,” he stated.

President and Commander-in-Chief of the Croatian Armed Forces Zoran Milanović expressed his gratitude to Homeland War veterans for their sacrifice in securing Croatia’s freedom. He stressed that there is no greater gift or brighter legacy for the Croatian people than the freedom they fought for and won. He noted that for the armed forces to remain resilient, steadfast, and victorious, they must adapt to the challenges of a new era.

Ceremonial Programme

The official commemoration traditionally began with a morning wake-up call march through the streets of Knin, followed by a Holy Mass celebrated at the Church of Our Lady of the Great Croatian Baptismal Covenant. Wreaths were laid and candles lit at the Croatian Victory Monument Storm ’95 in memory of fallen, deceased, and missing Croatian defenders, with prayers led by the Military Ordinary in the Republic of Croatia, Monsignor Jure Bogdan.

The central ceremony was held at the NK Dinara Stadium. It featured the raising of the Croatian flag at the Knin Fortress, the intonation of the national anthem, the reading of both the history of Operation Storm and the names of fallen and missing Croatian defenders. In honour of the anniversary, Croatian Veterans Day, and the 31st anniversary of Operation Storm, a 31-gun ceremonial salute was fired, followed by a minute of silence was observed in tribute to the killed, missing, and deceased defenders. Tribute was also paid with a flyover by three Rafale multirole fighter aircraft of the Croatian Air Force.

Homeland War veterans, family members of fallen Croatian defenders, members of the Croatian Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior, and veterans of the Croatian Defence Council (HVO) participated in the ceremonial raising of the national flag at the Knin Fortress.

Brigadier General Željko Ljubas, Commander of the Command Operations Centre of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, submitted the official report to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the CAF, Zoran Milanović.

Brigadier General Željko Ljubas stated that Operation Storm was the “operation of all operations” and the greatest victory in Croatian history, which continues to be studied at military academies and analysed worldwide. He added that he views Operation Storm both from the perspective of a veteran and as an active participant.

Throughout the day, the programme featured performances by the Croatian Navy’s Klapa Sveti Juraj, the Ministry of the Interior’s Klapa Sveti Mihovil, and soloists Dubravka Šeparović Mušović and Đani Stipaničev.

Demonstration Exercises by the Croatian Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior and the Croatian Air Force Flight Programme

As part of the afternoon programme, the Croatian Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior demonstrated their capabilities through a joint parachute jump by members of the Special Operations Command and the Lučko Anti-Terrorist Unit. Following a flyover by a Mi-171Sh helicopter from the 93rd Wing of the Croatian Air Force, four parachutists jumped while carrying national flags, executing precise landings in front of the gathered citizens.

Particular attention was drawn to the demonstration exercise in which the Croatian Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior showcased their capabilities to conduct a joint counter-terrorism operation. The exercise involved members of the Intelligence Regiment, Special Operations Command, the Air Force, and the Special Police of the Ministry of the Interior, utilising unmanned systems, FPV drones, OH-58D Kiowa Warrior, UH-60M Black Hawk, and AW139 helicopters of the Special Police Aviation Unit of the Ministry of the Interior.

The programme continued with a performance by the Croatian Air Force aerobatic team “Wings of Storm” and concluded with a demonstration of the Rafale multirole fighter aircraft’s operational capabilities.

Citizens and the Croatian Armed Forces at the Ceremony

A tactical and technical display attracted great public interest, where the Croatian Armed Forces, the Ministry of the Interior, the Civil Protection Directorate, and the Croatian Firefighting Association presented their equipment, weapons, and vehicles. Visitors had the opportunity to view Patria armoured vehicles in several configurations, M-ATV and HMMWV tactical vehicles, the BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher, the Mistral-3 air defence system, logistics vehicles, unmanned aerial systems, modern infantry weapons, and other military equipment.

At the Croatian Armed Forces promotional booth, citizens had the opportunity to learn about military career development opportunities, basic military training, and the military profession.

The Republic of Croatia Pays Tribute to All Homeland War Veterans

By commemorating Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day, Croatian Veterans Day, and the 31st anniversary of Operation Storm, the Republic of Croatia once again paid tribute to all veterans who defended the homeland. The event reaffirmed the nation’s enduring commitment to preserving the values of the Homeland War, developing the capabilities of the Croatian Armed Forces, and strengthening the security of the Republic of Croatia.

Operation Storm lasted from August 4th to 7th, 1995, with approximately 200,000 soldiers and police officers participating in its execution. During the operation, 243 defenders were killed, 1,430 were wounded, and two remain listed as missing.

Objava Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day, Croatian Veterans Day, and the 31st Anniversary of Operation Storm Commemorated in Knin pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

The deployment is part of the rotation of Croatian Air Force (CAF) Canadair CL-415 aircraft and crews, representing the continuation of the Croatian Air Force’s mission following the French Republic’s request to extend Croatia’s humanitarian assistance in combating large-scale wildfires under the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism – rescEU.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić issued the Order deploying the Croatian Air Force firefighting aircraft to the French Republic on the basis of a Decision of the Government of the Republic of Croatia.

Following the request of the French Republic to extend humanitarian assistance in wildfire suppression and the operational need to rotate aircraft and crews, the Government of the Republic of Croatia adopted a Decision authorising the deployment of one Croatian Air Force Canadair CL-415 aircraft with two crews composed of members of the Croatian Armed Forces.

Pursuant to Article 56(1) of the Defence Act, the Croatian Armed Forces may cross the borders of the Republic of Croatia to provide humanitarian assistance to another country on the basis of a decision adopted by the Government of the Republic of Croatia, subject to the prior consent of the President of the Republic.

The Commander of the 855th Firefighting Squadron, Colonel Milan Došen, stated: “The participation of our pilots, technicians and Canadair CL-415 aircraft in wildfire suppression efforts in France is yet another demonstration of the readiness of the Croatian Air Force and the Republic of Croatia to assist our allies in times of crisis and natural disasters. I am confident that our crews will successfully accomplish their mission, and I wish them a safe flight and a successful return to Croatia.”

Objava Second Croatian Canadair Deployed to France to Continue Wildfire Suppression Support pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić issued the order to deploy the Croatian Air Force firefighting aircraft to the French Republic. This action follows a decision of the Government of the Republic of Croatia authorizing the Croatian Armed Forces to cross the state border to provide humanitarian assistance abroad.

The Commander of the 855th Firefighting Squadron, Colonel Milan Došen, stated:

“Our crew is ready for the mission in France. The situation in southwestern France is difficult, and we are joining the French firefighting forces to help combat the raging wildfires.”

Colonel Došen also noted that the Croatian firefighting squadron possesses long-standing experience in aerial firefighting both in Croatia and abroad.

Pursuant to Article 56(1) of the Defence Act, it is stipulated that the Croatian Armed Forces may cross the borders of the Republic of Croatia to provide humanitarian assistance to another state based on a decision made by the Government of the Republic of Croatia, with the prior consent of the President of the Republic of Croatia.

Objava Croatian Canadair CL-415 Deployed to France to Assist in Wildfire Suppression pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

During the meeting, Minister Anušić and General Grynkewich discussed the key takeaways from the NATO Summit in Ankara, the modernisation of the Croatian Armed Forces, the security situation in Southeast Europe, and continued support for Ukraine.

Minister Anušić emphasised that the United States is Croatia’s most important strategic partner in defence and security, highlighting that the U.S. government makes a significant contribution toward enhancing Croatia’s defence capabilities. He added that Croatia remains firmly committed to modernising and equipping the Croatian Armed Forces, as well as increasing defence spending.

Last year, Croatia allocated 2.10 per cent of its GDP to defence, with 34 per cent of that amount dedicated to modernisation and procurement. The country aims to increase its defence spending to 3 per cent of GDP by 2030 and to 3.5 per cent by 2035. Croatia has already reached – and even exceeded – the target of allocating 1.5 per cent of GDP to defence-related investments this year, currently reaching 1.89 per cent.

During the meeting, Minister Anušić placed particular emphasis on the importance of the international community’s presence in Southeast Europe, specifically within Kosovo.

“We consider the presence of international forces in Kosovo through the KFOR peace support operation to be the key to stability and security in this part of Europe,” Minister Anušić stated.

Addressing NATO’s recent announcement regarding adjustments to the scale of the KFOR mission, Minister Anušić noted that Croatia is interested in maintaining its current troop contribution to KFOR and, if necessary, increasing it. Croatia currently has 152 members of the Croatian Armed Forces deployed in the peace support operation. Under the mandate of the Croatian Parliament, this number may be increased to a maximum of 200 personnel for 2026.

Turning to the security situation in Croatia’s immediate neighbourhood, Minister Anušić once again warned that the Republic of Serbia possesses Chinese-made hypersonic missiles. He also recalled that Prime Minister Andrej Plenković had informed NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in writing several months ago about this offensive weapons system.

Over the past month, Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) General Alexus G. Grynkewich has been visiting countries across South-east Europe. He visited Croatia at the invitation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid.

During their meeting, General Grynkewich and Lieutenant General Kundid discussed regional stability, the modernisation plans of the Croatian Armed Forces, and NATO Capability Targets.

Objava Minister Anušić Meets with NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Grynkewich pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

As part of the summit program, Minister Anušić attended today, on 7th July, the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum, which focused on the transatlantic defence industry, investments, and innovation.

Minister Anušić during the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum signed a Letter of Intent on cooperation to enhance strategic airlift capabilities through the use of Airbus A400M Atlas aircraft, together with the Defence Ministers of Belgium, Poland, Turkey, Spain, the United Kingdom and France.

Minister Anušić emphasized that Croatia will incur no obligations or costs in relation to this project until 2030, after which it will determine the nature and scope of its participation. Answering journalists’ questions, Minister Anušić also emphasized that Croatia will initially participate in the project as an Ally, potentially through specific arrangements with participating nations that operate Airbus A400M Atlas aircraft for rapid deployment of the troops and military equipment.

This initiative constitutes a NATO High Visibility Project (HVP), an instrument designed to accelerate development of the key Allied capabilities.

Specifically, the Republic of Croatia has adopted the NATO capability target for “Strategic Deployment,” which encompasses capabilities for the heavy and medium transport of troops and military equipment.

In accordance with the signed Letter of Intent, the Republic of Croatia gains the opportunity to participate in the work of the expert working group and to actively participate in shaping cooperation arrangements in line with national interests and priorities.

Minister Anušić highlighted that the Long-Term Development Plan of the Croatian Armed Forces identifies a requirement for a transport aircraft.
“With this, we will fulfil an obligation from the Long-Term Development Plan of the Croatian Armed Forces, ensuring that we—together with our allies—have a transport aircraft at our disposal,” Anušić said.

Speaking about the main messages of the NATO summit, Minister Anušić highlighted three key topics: the continuing trend of increased defence spending, the strengthening of the defence industry, and continued support for Ukraine.

“At the NATO Summit, Croatia will demonstrate a trend of rising defence spending—having reached 2.10% of the GDP for defence last year—and we are strengthening our domestic defence industry, which was also a central topic at today’s NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum; and, of course, we are continuing to support Ukraine in its efforts and struggle for independence and freedom.”

Minister Anušić: Croatia Exceeds 1.5% Target for Defence – Related Investments

For the first time, the Minister presented data showing that Croatia has met—and indeed exceeded—the NATO target of allocating 1.5% of GDP to defence-related investments.

“It is important to emphasize—and to inform the Croatian public for the first time—that while we committed to a total defence spending level of 5% of GDP, with 1.5% of that figure dedicated to specific defence-related investments, we have already allocated more than 1.5% to defence-linked projects within the civilian sector. Specifically, we have reached 1.89%,” Minister Anušić announced.

These investments largely focus on cooperation regarding military mobility—specifically transport infrastructure and logistics capabilities—as well as collaboration with civil protection services. They also encompass projects in healthcare, cyber capabilities, and critical infrastructure, along with general dual-use projects that strengthen national and societal resilience.

Objava Minister Anušić Signs Letter of Intent in Ankara on Cooperation to Enhance Strategic Airlift Capabilities pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić said that the successful conclusion of Exercise Combat Power 26 showcased the full spectrum of Croatian Armed Forces capabilities – from Croatian Navy operations in the waters surrounding the island of Žirje to today’s demonstration of Croatian Air Force, Croatian Army and unmanned systems capabilities at the “Eugen Kvaternik” military training area.

Among the key innovations introduced during this year’s exercise, Minister Anušić highlighted the first operational employment of the Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial system employing MAM-L laser-guided munitions.

“The Croatian Armed Forces are growing stronger, better equipped and better trained every day. We will continue on this path, while the Government of the Republic of Croatia will continue implementing its planned development and modernisation objectives to ensure that the Croatian Armed Forces achieve the capability levels required to fulfil Croatia’s commitments within NATO, including those confirmed at the Hague Summit,” Minister Anušić said.

The Minister of Defence of the Republic of Kosovo, Ejup Maqedonci, also stressed the importance of further developing the capabilities of the Croatian Armed Forces. He assessed that the exercise demonstrates the high level of development of the Croatian Armed Forces, particularly highlighting the integration of fire support as one of the most complex elements of modern military operations.

He emphasised that Croatia’s investment in the development of its Armed Forces contributes to peace, stability and security in the region and noted that Croatia and Kosovo continue to strengthen cooperation in the fields of defence, interoperability and the defence industry.

Speaking about the conduct of the exercise under demanding conditions, Commander of the Guards Armoured-Mechanised Brigade Brigadier General Željko Marinov said that its primary objective had been to enhance interoperability and develop and validate capabilities in cooperation with Allied forces.

“We fully achieved the objectives we had set, primarily the integration of manoeuvre forces, air and artillery support, and all other exercise components involving every branch of the Croatian Armed Forces. These demanding conditions represented our greatest challenge, but the motivation, commitment and adaptability of our personnel to the demands of the battlefield were evident throughout the successful execution of the exercise,” Brigadier General Marinov said.

Joint Offensive Operation at Slunj

The final demonstration featured a segment of a joint offensive operation involving, alongside the Croatian Armed Forces, the armed forces of Slovenia, Montenegro, Italy, Albania, Portugal, Kosovo and the United States, including personnel of the Minnesota National Guard, with whom Croatia is marking 30 years of successful bilateral defence cooperation this year.

At the same time, Exercise Combat Power 26 also incorporated activities conducted as part of the multinational military exercise Immediate Response, together with Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Georgia, further demonstrating the ability of Allied and partner forces to operate effectively together.

The offensive operation demonstrated during the exercise reflectedthe realities of the modern battlefield, where success depends on the integration of intelligence, reconnaissance, precision fires, manoeuvre, aviation, unmanned systems, and effective command and control across multiple domains.

Throughout the tactical demonstration, all activities were synchronised within a single operational framework.

Bayraktar Employs Laser-Guided Munitions for the First Time

The Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial system engaged a designated target employing MAM-L laser-guided munitions.

The capability to destroy targets at long ranges using MAM-L laser-guided munitions represents a new capability of the Croatian Armed Forces and marks another step in the integration of unmanned platforms across all service branches.

Rafale Aircraft Strike Ground Targets

Croatian Air Forces Rafale fighter aircraft conducted attack sorties against designated ground targets, employing their integrated 30 mm cannon to conduct precision strikes.

OH-58D Kiowa Warrior armed reconnaissance helicopters engaged targets using 70 mm Hydra rockets and 12.7 mm machine guns.

Special operations forces were inserted by UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter using the fast-rope technique.

FPV Drones Conduct Kinetic Attacks

FPV drones also demonstrated their capabilities to rapidly detect, identify and engage targets through kinetic attacks.

Special Operations Forces, Black Hawk, and Kiowa

During the extraction of special operations forces using the SPIES (Special Patrol Insertion/Extraction System) technique from a UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter, OH-58D Kiowa Warrior helicopters provided continuous suppressive fire, securing the air corridorfor the extraction of reconnaissance elements.

The integration of reconnaissance, target acquisition, and precision fires makes the Kiowa Warrior a highly effective platform for supporting special operations and reconnaissance missions.

The Slovenian Armed Forces also demonstrated anti-armour operations employing the Spike missile system.

Patria and Bradley infantry fighting vehicles conducted a fire support mission, demonstrating precise fire while on the move.

The Minnesota National Guard, operating Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, together with Croatian mechanised infantry equipped with Patria armoured vehicles, also demonstrated their combined operational capabilities.

American Hercules and Croatian Rafales

After ground forces had successfully secured the objective and completed their mission, a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft from the Minnesota National Guard conducted a coordinated air resupply mission in support of ground forces.

Throughout the mission, the C-130 Hercules was provided with fighter escort by a pair of Croatian Air Force Rafale multirole fighter aircraft.

The final demonstration at the Slunj military training area was attended by the President of the Republic of Croatia and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Zoran Milanović; the Prime Minister’s Envoy, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić; the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Kosovo, Ejup Maqedonci; the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament’s Envoy, Member of Parliament Stipan Šašlin; representatives of the Parliamentary Defence Committee; the Ambassador of the United States to Croatia, Nicole McGraw; representatives of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces; the military diplomatic corps; and numerous other distingushed guests.

Objava Combat Power 26 Cultimates in Demonstration of Peak Combat Readiness at Slunj pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

The Croatian Armed Forces and the Minnesota National Guard have successfully cooperated for three decades through the State Partnership Program. This year marks the 30th anniversary of that partnership.

Events marking this milestone are being held both in Minnesota and Croatia. As part of the anniversary activities, members of the Minnesota National Guard are also participating in the international joint military exercise Combat Power 26.

State Secretary Galić highlighted the long-standing and excellent cooperation, noting that it has made a significant contribution to the development of the capabilities of the Croatian Armed Forces.

“The United States is a strategic defence ally of the Republic of Croatia, and we highly appreciate the U.S. contribution to the development of Croatia’s defence capabilities. In this context, our partnership with the Minnesota National Guard represents a key component of that contribution. Our partnership will remain one of our priorities, with a focus on further expanding this outstanding cooperation,” State Secretary Galić said.

The Croatian Armed Forces and the Minnesota National Guard cooperate on numerous capability development and modernisation projects. The acquisition of Bradley infantry fighting vehicles and the modernisation of the Croatian Air Force through the procurement of UH-60 Black Hawk multi-purpose helicopters have further strengthened cooperation with the Minnesota National Guard, as these systems are also operated by the U.S. side.

The partnership also includes the development of military training areas in the Republic of Croatia, cyber capabilities, artillery, countermine capabilities, and water purification capabilities. Civil-military cooperation has also been enhanced through the involvement of the defence system in strengthening the resilience of society as a whole, in cooperation with participants in the Homeland Security System.

Members of the Minnesota National Guard regularly participate in military exercises conducted in Croatia.

Objava State Secretary Galić Meets with Major General Manke pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić and Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid, observed the joint combat exercise showcasing the Croatian Armed Forces’ modern maritime capabilities.

The martime phase of Evercise Combat Power 26 at Žirje involved personnel of the Croatian Armed Forces operating Croatian Navy vessels, Croatian Air Force Rafale multirole fighter aircraft and helicopters, air defence systems, Croatian Army artillery units, and special operations forces from both the Croatian Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior.

Minister Anušić expressed his satisfaction with the successful conduct of this major international military exercise, noting that more than 3,000 troops from around ten NATO allied nations are participating.

“Today we witnessed the first phase of the exercise, where the Croatian Navy, Croatian Air Force, and Croatian Army conducted coordinated joint operatios against a common target, demonstrating their capabilities, equipment, and combat power. In today’s challenging security environment, exercises like this validate and further strengthen the capabilities of the Croatian Armed Forces, which remain the main pillar of Croatia’s security and peace,” Minister Anušić said.

RemarkableHit by the Mistral Air Defence System

Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid emphasised that the exercise was conducted according to a realistic operational scenario, demonstrating the full range of capabilities available to the Croatian Armed Forces in responding to potential maritime threats.

“Throughout the exercise, we witnessed highly effective employment of our newly acquired air defence systems alongside Rafale fighter aircraft operating jointly. We also demonstrated coordinated action with our special operations forces in carrying out our primary mission of protecting Croatia’s interests at sea,” General Kundid stated.

General Kundid particularly highlighted the performance of the short-range Mistral air defence system: “We witnessed a remarkable direct hit by a Mistral 3 missile against an aerial target. It is extremely rare for a missile to strike this type of aerial target simulator directly, considering its diameter is only 128 millimetres. It was truly a direct hit.”

He also underscored the Croatian Navy’s capabilities, noting that its naval infantry forces had been reinforced by Croatian Army units.

Special Operations Forces, Air Defence, Croatian Navy Vessels, Rafales and Black Hawks in Action at Sea

During the exercise, conducted under a realistic operational scenario, Special Operations Forces of the Croatian Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior carried out a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) operation, transferring assault teams from the Special Operations Command Maritime Group and the Ministry’s Special Police onto a hostile vessel before conducting its forcible boarding and capture.

The exercise then featured a demonstration of command post air defence using the BOV-3 20/3 self-propelled anti-aircraft system, followed by the air defence of the landing ship-minelayer DBM-82 Krka using the Mistral missile system.

The Croatian Army also conducted live-fire engagement of maritime surface targets with the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer.

Croatian Navy personnel demonstrated engagement of surface targets at sea using the naval guns of missile boats and coastal patrol vessels.

The Croatian Air Force conducted live-fire attacks against maritime surface targets using the internal cannon of its Rafale multirole fighter aircraft.

Through these training activities at Žirje, members of the Croatian Armed Forces demonstrated a high level of interoperability, professionalism, and operational readiness during joint maritime operations.

Combat Power 26

The Combat Power 26 international joint military exercise is being conducted across military training areas throughout the Republic of Croatia. More than 3,000 members of the Croatian Armed Forces are participating, together with over 25 Croatian Navy vessels, more than 20 aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial systems, numerous artillery and missile systems, combat and support vehicles, as well as approximately 500 personnel from allied and partner armed forces and representatives of other components of Croatia’s Homeland Security System.

Through the conduct of high-intensity joint combat operations demonstrating the Croatian Armed Forces’ overall combat capability, and through coordinated action with other components of the Homeland Security System, Exercise Combat Power 26 trains missions related to the deterrence and defence of Croatia’s national territory, fulfils obligations arising from the Croatian Armed Forces’ role within NATO’s deterrence and defence posture for the Euro-Atlantic area, and strengthens the resilience of Croatian society against a wide range of security threats.

Objava Combat Power 26 at Žirje – Croatian Armed Forces Demonstrate Joint Maritime Combat Operations pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.

“Defence spending is crucial, as are the commitments we undertook at the previous summit in The Hague. These include the minimum target of two per cent of GDP for defence, which Croatia has already achieved, as well as the broader agreement on continued support for Ukraine,” Minister Anušić stated after the meeting. He added that Croatia currently invests more than two per cent of GDP in defence, with plans to increase this to three per cent by 2030.

Minister Anušić also commented on the address delivered by the U.S. Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth.

“I support the view that Europe must play a greater role and assume greaterresponsibility for its own security. In the past, Europe relied significantly more heavily on the United States, but it has now awakened and is developing its defence policy, strengthening its defence industry, and investing broadely in measures that make Europe safer and more autonomous. Croatia is following this European momentum, and the remarks that were made were certainly not directed at Croatia,” the Minister said.

Regarding a possible reduction of the U.S. military presence in Europe, Minister Anušić stated that the United States had informed European partners in advance of its intention to adjust its strategic focus, thereby allowing suffcient time for preparation.

Minister Anušić is also participating today in a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG). Croatia remains firmly committed to providing sustained and resolute support to Ukraine.

Objava Minister Anušić: Europe Increases Security and Strengthens Defence Industry pojavila se prvi puta na MORH.