Croatia completes transition to Rafale jets, retires MiG‑21 fleet
According to the Militarnyj portal, Croatia has completed the acceptance of the Rafale fighters ordered from France. This has ultimately allowed Croatia to retire the Soviet-era MiG-21 fighters, which had been the cornerstone of the Croatian Air Force for years.
Croatia decided to purchase 12 Rafale fighters. The last one landed on April 25 at Franjo Tuđman Airport, signifying that the Croatian Air Force has fully completed its squadron of this type of aircraft. The French jets are replacing the aging MiG-21s, which for years formed the backbone of Croatian combat aviation, but these planes no longer provide the capabilities expected in NATO countries.
Modernization of the Croatian Air Force
"Today, we complete a project that has strategically transformed the Croatian Air Force. This squadron is not just a military capability but also a clear message – the Croatian Army, and in particular the Croatian Air Force, safeguard the security of Croatian citizens with modern fighter aircraft," wrote Croatian Defence Minister Ivan Anušić on social media.
Militarnyj notes that the contract with France for the purchase of Rafale fighters was signed in November 2021. Its value amounts to approximately 1,054 million U.S. dollars and includes not only the delivery of aircraft but also dedicated weapons, spare parts, three years of logistical support, and training of Croatian pilots and technicians in France.
Support from the French Air Force
The Rafale fighters were delivered from the inventories of the French Air Force. By modernizing its aviation, Croatia has joined the group of countries utilizing modern military technologies, which is crucial for regional security.
The Rafale is a multirole fighter whose design began in the 1980s, though it only entered service in 2001. It features a delta wing design with canard control surfaces and two engines, granting the Rafale high maneuverability and the ability to fly at supersonic speeds without relying on afterburners.
Croatia is arming like never before
Phasing out the MiG-21 fighters is not the only indication that Croatia is moving away from Soviet-era equipment. The country has also retired Mi-8 helicopters, which it donated to Ukraine as part of its support efforts. Among the new equipment acquired for the Croatian army are Bradley armoured fighting vehicles, Black Hawk helicopters, and Mistral anti-aircraft systems in recent months. Additionally, the Croatian government is making efforts to acquire HIMARS artillery.
