Croatia , France 

Croatia welcomes its first six Rafale fighter jets from France, marking a milestone in enhancing its air defense capabilities and strengthening defense cooperation between the two nations. The arrival ceremony, attended by top Croatian officials, underscores the significance of this acquisition for national security.

Following the acquisition of 12 Rafale fighter jets from the French Air and Space Force in November 2021, Croatia's Air Force, known as Hrvatsko ratno zrakoplovstvo i protuzračna obrana (HRZ i PZO), received its first six aircraft today at the 91 operational base near Zagreb. The arrival was marked by a ceremony attended by President Zoran Milanović, Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, and Defense Minister Ivan Anušić.

The six Rafale jets, originating from the Dassault Aviation site in Mérignac, were greeted by Croatian pilots who underwent training in France. These aircraft will be assigned to the 191 Squadron of the Croatian Air Force. Additional Rafale jets are expected to arrive progressively, with the goal of forming a complete squadron by mid-2025.

Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, commended the Croatian Air Force for the successful ferry of the aircraft, highlighting the competence of the pilots and personnel involved. He emphasized Dassault Aviation's commitment to providing full integration and logistical support for the Rafale jets in the Croatian Air Force, enhancing Croatia's sovereignty and bolstering its capabilities to fulfill operational missions within NATO.

The acquisition of Rafale fighter jets marks a significant step for Croatia in modernizing its air defense capabilities and strengthening its defense cooperation with France. These advanced aircraft are expected to play a crucial role in safeguarding Croatia's airspace and contributing to regional security efforts.