Amid rising regional tensions, Croatia deployed an elite armoured battalion to Baranja near Serbia and Hungary, countering Russian-backed Serbian territorial claims and Hungary’s expansionist rhetoric. Revamped Beli Manastir barracks highlight Croatia’s defence focus and infrastructure investment. This strategic move aims to ensure stability and economic growth in vulnerable eastern frontier regions, balancing defence preparedness with long-term prosperity.
By Marko Barišić
Geopolitical Shifts Prompt Croatian Defence Overhaul
In line with the changes unfolding in Europe following Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, now entering its third year, Croatia is also adapting its security and defence systems to these new circumstances. This overhaul shows how Croatia’s defence strategy is evolving.
In line with the changes unfolding in Europe following Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, now entering its third year, Croatia is also adapting its security and defence systems to these new circumstances. These changes are critical for Croatia’s defence developments.
This ambition extends beyond Kosovo to Croatia, where the defeat suffered in 1995 during Flash and Storm – and later in Bosnia and Herzegovina, when Croatian General Ante Gotovina advanced his troops to within 23 kilometres of Banja Luka, a Serbian stronghold – remains unforgotten. A form of revenge against Croatia appears to be their sole constant. This context underlines the persistent challenges faced by Croatia’s defence forces.
Hungary’s Role in Regional Tensions
The second Russian player has recently become Hungary. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is Putin’s chief ally within the European Union. Restless within his current borders, Orbán seeks to expand them. This adds another layer to Croatia’s defence concerns.
He frequently flaunts maps of “Greater Hungary,” which ceased to exist after the First World War when it lost over half its territory. Orbán would welcome Putin dismantling the existing international order to redraw borders. Though unstated publicly, Orbán covets territory primarily from Ukraine and Romania, but would also gladly seize parts of Croatia. He would even take land from Serbia, despite his current alliance with Vučić.
Strategic Deployment: Elite Armoured Battalion Arrives in Baranja
Given these circumstances, Croatia’s recent decision to rapidly deploy an elite battalion of the Guards Armoured-Mechanised Brigade to Baranja – comprising around 800 soldiers, tanks, and other equipment for permanent stationing – comes as no surprise. This strategic deployment is a crucial part of Croatia’s defence strategy.
Baranja, a Croatian region between the Drava and Danube rivers, borders Serbia to the east and Hungary to the north. The Croatian Army will be based in Beli Manastir, the area’s largest town, where expansive barracks already exist. Although planned earlier, the accelerated renovation of these facilities, costing just under €30 million, is now underway.
Beli Manastir Barracks: From Neglect to Renewal
These barracks were operational during the former Yugoslav state. During the Homeland War, they housed UNPROFOR (United Nations Protection Force) troops, tasked with protecting peace and Croatian civilians – though with limited success.
Post-war, a smaller Croatian Army unit was briefly stationed there, but the barracks have since been abandoned. Existing structures now require refurbishment: some buildings will be demolished, others constructed, and housing secured for Croatian soldiers and their families. The first troops will arrive next year, with full operational readiness expected by 2027. This project underscores the importance of infrastructure in Croatia’s defence policies.
Economic and Security Benefits for Eastern Croatia
Beyond bolstering security, the Army’s presence is anticipated to bring prosperity to the region. Croatia’s eastern flank will thus be militarily secured, enhancing Croatia’s defence posture.
The Guards Mechanised Brigade is headquartered in Vinkovci, the Engineer Battalion has been in Vukovar for five years, and soon Beli Manastir will host the elite Armoured Battalion. All in keeping with the adage: Hope for peace, but prepare for war.