The crew is ready and motivated, Commander of the 11th Croatian contingent (HRVCON) of NATO operation “Sea Guardian” said

Today, on 5 May 2025, the 11th Croatian contingent (HRVCON) on board of the Vukovar RTOP-41 missile gunboat departed from Split military port of Lora for NATO-led Operation “Sea Guardian”.

The 11th HRVCON has thirty-two members and will remain in the area of operation in the central Mediterranean until 26 May 2025, and the contingent Commander is Lieutenant Commander Nikola Kuvačić.

Vukovar RTOP-41 missile gunboat has the role of the command ship of one part of the operation under the marking FOCUSED OPERATION (FOCOPS 25-3), in which the Albanian Navy patrol ship “LISSUS” P-133 also participates.

Commodore Dojkić: Every new participation in operations brings new challenges, so I ask you to take a professional approach to all tasks.

Commander of the Croatian Navy, Commodore Damir Dojkić, wished all members of the contingent successful completion of their tasks in the operation, calm seas and a safe return to their homeland.

“Since 2018, we have been participating in this operation in which we contribute to global security. Efforts have been made in preparation over the past weeks, and the experience of most contingent members from previous participations is a guarantee that this time HRVCON will fulfil its obligations in the best possible way,” Commodore Dojkić said, recalling that each new participation brings new challenges and requires a professional approach to all tasks from each member.

Commander of the 11th HRVCON, Lieutenant Commander Nikola Kuvačić, said in his address that the contingent has been preparing for deployment to the operation over the past months. “I can confirm with pleasure that all the set goals have been achieved and that the crew is tested, ready and motivated. I have no doubt that we will complete the task entrusted to us with maximum knowledge and dedication. The safety of the crew and the safety of the equipment are my priority,” he emphasized.

During the 11th HRVCON’s stay in the operation, Navy Lieutenant Dino Čobo will be stationed in the capacity of a liaison officer at NATO Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM), Northwood, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Vukovar RTOP-41 missile gunboat is part of the Croatian Navy Fleet and this is the third deployment of this ship to NATO operation “Sea Guardian”. The Commander is LT Commander Josip Župa. The ship is 45 m long, 8.9 m wide, and it reaches a speed of 28 knots. It is armed with eight RB-15B anti-ship missiles, a 57 mm Bofors Mk1 bow cannon and two 23 mm SAKO ZU stern anti-aircraft guns. It is also equipped with two PKT machine guns for close protection.