The Croatian Army is expected to begin operating the drones by September 2025. The package includes the entire drone system and training for Croatian military personnel, the Ministry of Defence confirmed in a press release.
The Bayraktar TB2 is a medium-altitude, long-endurance UAV capable of intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance, and armed attack missions. Beyond military applications, it has been deployed in civil operations such as disaster response, search and rescue, irregular migration monitoring, and combating forest fires.
“This deal enhances Croatia’s defence capabilities while providing our military with advanced training to operate these systems effectively,” stated Defence Minister Anušić. The acquisition further aligns Croatia with NATO and EU defence standards, strengthening its position within the alliance.
Baykar CEO Haluk Bayraktar highlighted the significance of the agreement, noting, “This marks another NATO and EU member state adding the Bayraktar TB2 to its inventory, reaffirming Baykar’s global leadership.” To date, Baykar has signed export agreements for the Bayraktar TB2 with 34 countries, alongside deals for its AKINCI UCAV with 10 nations.
Croatia’s Prime Minister Andrej Plenković recently reaffirmed the government’s commitment to defence spending, aiming to reach 2% of GDP in the 2025 budget. Modernisation plans for 2024 include EUR 708 million in investments, up from EUR 560 million, with funding allocated for HIMARS rocket systems, Black Hawk helicopters, an anti-aircraft system, and Leopard tanks.
Source: Croatian Ministry of Defence.
