Zagreb, 30 October 2025 – The Croatian Parliament Defense Committee has approved four critical military procurements that will significantly enhance the country’s defense capabilities. The decision covers projects presented by Croatian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ivan Anušić: 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks, 18 Caesar MK2 self-propelled howitzers, 420 TATRA T-815-7 heavy off-road vehicles, and an advanced anti-drone system.
The total value of these procurements is €1.945 billion, and they are scheduled to commence by the end of this year. Three major projects – Leopard 2A8 tanks, Caesar howitzers, and TATRA trucks – will be financed through the European Union SAFE financial instrument, while the anti-drone system will be funded directly from the Croatian Ministry of Defense budget.
These procurements also involve domestic Croatian companies, supporting local defense industry and enhancing full NATO interoperability. Companies such as Končar and Đuro Đaković are participating in the projects, with the opportunity for other Croatian manufacturers to join.
Anti-Drone System
The anti-drone system for the Croatian Armed Forces is valued at €125 million and will be deployed from 2026 to 2029. Under a framework agreement with Končar d.d., two stationary and two mobile systems will be delivered. The first phase, scheduled by mid-2027, will include drone detection, disruption, and neutralization systems integrated into an AI-assisted command and control network. The second phase involves mobile systems equipped with 30mm cannons. This project also allows the involvement of other Croatian companies, strengthening the national defense industry.
Caesar MK2 155 mm Self-Propelled Howitzers
Croatia will acquire 18 Caesar 6×6 MK2 howitzers at a cost of approximately €320 million, with deliveries scheduled by 2029. The procurement is coordinated through France’s DGA agency alongside Estonia, Bulgaria, Portugal, and Slovenia. The acquisition is divided into two packages: the main package includes the howitzers themselves, while the additional package covers surveillance, target acquisition, fire control, communications, armored vehicles, and transport vehicles for ammunition. Both packages are expected to be signed simultaneously.
Leopard 2A8 Main Battle Tanks
The acquisition of 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks is valued at approximately €1.3 billion, with deliveries planned from 2028 to 2030. The contract also includes three simulators, spare parts, and logistical support. The Croatian government initiated preparatory measures for acquiring these modern tanks in November 2024.
TATRA T-815-7 Heavy Off-Road Vehicles
Croatia will acquire 420 TATRA T-815-7 heavy off-road vehicles valued at around €200 million, with deliveries scheduled between 2026 and 2030. The framework agreement will be signed with the Czech and Slovak Ministries of Defense and Tatra Defence Systems. Final assembly and maintenance will be carried out in Croatia in cooperation with Đuro Đaković Specijalna vozila d.d. The TATRA trucks meet NATO ballistic and mine protection standards and are used by 21 NATO member countries.
The Croatian Ministry of Defense aims with these acquisitions to accelerate the modernization of its armed forces, enhance combat capabilities, and strengthen national defense capacity. The new Leopard 2A8 tanks and Caesar howitzers will significantly improve the firepower and mobility of Croatia’s land forces. TATRA heavy off-road vehicles will enhance logistical and transport capabilities, providing operational flexibility. The anti-drone system will offer effective protection against potential drone threats in the country’s airspace. Additionally, involving domestic companies in these projects strengthens Croatia’s defense industry, reduces dependency on foreign suppliers, and ensures full NATO standard compliance. This comprehensive modernization aims to make Croatia a stronger actor in regional security and defense cooperation.
