Croatia aims to lead EU in small combat drone production
Croatian Defence Minister Ivan Anuszić believes that his country can become a leader in the European Union in the production of small combat drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles have proven to be highly effective weapons during the war in Ukraine.
"Given the capacities and capabilities of our domestic defence industry, Croatia could play a key role in the joint procurement and production of small drones within Europe," said Anuszić following a meeting of European defence ministers.
Croatia wants to produce vast quantities of drones
Anuszić stated that the current capacity of the Croatian arms industry allows for the production of up to 500,000 such drones annually. With the support of the European Union, this production could be further increased.
"Croatian companies could produce up to 500,000 small drones annually, starting as early as this year. If given the opportunity to lead this segment, that number could even grow," added Anuszić.
Drones crucial in the war in Ukraine
Like many other European countries, Croatia has significantly revised its approach to defence and the production and procurement of armaments. It has already reached 2% of GDP in defence spending, with plans to increase this to 3% by 2030.
In recent months, the Croatian authorities have finalised several significant arms contracts. These include strengthening their military with French Dassault Rafale fighter jets, American Black Hawk helicopters, Mistral anti-aircraft systems, and Bradley infantry fighting vehicles. They also want to acquire HIMARS artillery rocket systems (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System).
In their clashes with Russia, Ukrainians have primarily relied on inexpensive FVP (first-person view) drones. These are often commercial models modified for combat by adding explosives. Custom-made military drones have greater capabilities. However, Anuszić did not specify the nature of the drones currently being produced in Croatia.
