Croatia has approved a €2.18 billion military modernisation package, marking one of the country’s most significant defence investments to date, Croatia Week reports. The plan includes major acquisitions such as 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks, 18 CAESAR MK2 self-propelled howitzers, advanced anti-drone systems and 420 TATRA heavy tactical vehicles. Funding will come through the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) mechanism alongside national budget contributions.
According to Defence Minister Ivan Anušić, the programme aims to strengthen Croatia’s operational readiness, align capabilities with NATO standards and boost the domestic defence industry. Local companies including Končar-Digital and Đuro Đaković Specijalna Vozila are expected to play key roles in the rollout, supporting technological development and job creation as the country accelerates the modernisation of its armed forces.
