Minister Anušić pays visit to Paris: Expanding cooperation with France in joint procurement

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Ivan Anušić paid an official visit to the French Republic.

On 25 March 2025 in Paris he met with the French Minister of Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu.

The main topics of their bilateral meeting included the current situation in Southeast Europe, with a focus on Croatia’s neighbouring countries; the evolving geopolitical relations in which France and Great Britain are taking over the leading role in Europe, particularly concerning Ukraine; and the European armament plan.

Since 2021, Croatian and French defence cooperation has been steadily evolving, largely based on the project involving the procurement of the 12 Rafale multi-role combat aircraft. In the light of the European armament plan (ReArm Europe), Croatia sees further potential for cooperation with France, especially regarding joint procurements. In June 2024, Croatia signed a Framework Agreement to join the project for the joint procurement of CAESAR self-propelled howitzers.

Minister Anušić: Our cooperation with the French Ministry of Defence and the French Government will be continued in all segments

“The main topic of today’s bilateral meeting was strengthening defence cooperation, modernizing the armed forces, and exploring financing opportunities within the framework of the ReArm plan,” Minister Anušić said. He added that the meeting participants also discussed current security challenges facing Europe.

“We discussed the geopolitical situation, particularly in Southeast Europe – Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania – and all the issues currently attracting global attention, particularly the situation in Ukraine. France is one of Croatia’s key partners, and our cooperation with the French Ministry of Defence and the French Government will be continued in all segments of defence and security,” Minister Anušić said.

In this context, special attention was given to the procurement and modernization of critical combat systems.

“We are planning to sign a contract for the procurement of 30 CAESAR howitzers by the end of this year, and the short-range air defence system will be fully delivered by the end of the year. We are also interested in procuring a medium-range air defence system, which is our next priority,” he said.

The meeting participants also discussed future upgrades of the Rafale aircraft.

“The Rafale combat aircraft are continually acquiring new capabilities. Modernization and technological upgrades are processes that ensure their effectiveness for years to come. France is also upgrading its Rafales, and we will continue to follow and implement the latest technological standards,” the Minister said.

The Defence Ministers concluded that all these processes will be carried out systematically and in accordance with the plan, without unnecessary haste, although they are fully aware of the urgency and importance of strengthening Croatia’s defence capabilities.

“People want all at once, but there is no reason for panic. We are managing this process strategically and responsibly. We have clear goals, we are preparing for the future, and we are making the best possible use of the time ahead of us,” concluded Minister Anušić.