Croatia is reviving its early drone technology. They have plans to become a European leader in small combat drone production. Defence officials say the country’s advanced tech sector is key to this bold move. It builds on drone development that began as early as 1993 during the Homeland War.
Defence minister’s bold claims spark official response
Following Defence Minister Ivan Anušić’s statement that Croatia is producing small combat drones—covered in our report on Wednesday—the nation’s top officials have responded. They are preparing to take a leading role in the EU. By producing up to half a million drones this year, they aim to achieve this.
Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, answering a journalist’s question, said the government is mindful of modern technologies used in military operations.
“It is very positive that there are companies in Croatia making strong progress in developing their technology. I think they are excellent for the defence industry. We will continue to strengthen the entire defence cluster. The minister is in dialogue with many stakeholders involved in the production of arms or related equipment for the Croatian Armed Forces,” said Plenković.
He did not provide any specifics about the production. Nor did he clarify exactly what type of drones are being developed.
President Milanović cautious but hopeful
Reflecting on Anušić’s assertion that Croatia could become a leader in the EU’s small combat drone manufacturing sector, President Zoran Milanović said he hoped that might be possible.
“That would mean we could procure something for our own needs that is made in Croatia—and probably at a better price. The current amounts paid for combat systems are shocking,” he said.
He emphasised that when it comes to arms purchases, given that Croatia cannot buy from China or Russia, the government’s manoeuvring room is limited. However, what remains important is to ensure the country does not overpay.
He, too, refrained from sharing further details. Clearly, there is a deliberate silence in place. This is typical of military production efforts that remain confidential until the product reaches market.
Croatia’s early lead in drone development
Let us recall Anušić’s statement from a week ago during a visit to the Defence and Security University “Dr. Franjo Tuđman” in Zagreb. At the time, he said that the first unmanned aerial vehicles (the Croatian term for drones) were used by the Croatian Armed Forces as early as 1993—when no other military in the world had such aircraft.
“We had them. Unfortunately, at a certain point, we stopped developing that technology and ceased public discussion about it. We believed the war was over and would never return. Sadly, today these unmanned aerial vehicles are now central to warfare,” he said.
Technological momentum and international interest
He added that the countries that came to Croatia at the time to inspect these drones are now leading in drone design and technical solutions. Croatia now buys drones from them.
Although he did not name any country specifically, it is assumed he was referring to Turkey, from which Croatia recently purchased Bayraktar drones.
Clearly, the conversation around this technology is being revived. Croatia already has a well-developed IT sector and numerous tech firms that are highly respected globally.
In that context, the bold proposal is not surprising. It is undoubtedly backed by a quality product. This suggests Croatia could take a leading role in small combat drone production within the EU.
It would certainly be a positive development if this initiative were realised. Croatia, thanks to its technologically advanced private sector, clearly has something to offer in this field.
Follow the latest developments regarding Croatia’s Defence Foces here.