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In a significant move towards bolstering defense capabilities, Croatian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Ivan Anušić and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius signed a Letter of Intent today in Berlin. This agreement marks Croatia’s entry into Germany’s joint procurement program for the powerful Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks.
The deal will see Croatia supply Ukraine with 30 M-84 tanks and 30 M-80 infantry fighting vehicles from its current inventory, alongside spare parts and ammunition. In return, the funds provided by Germany for these contributions will help offset the cost of Croatia’s acquisition of up to 50 Leopard 2A8 tanks. This strategic collaboration benefits not only Croatia, enhancing its military strength, but also Ukraine, which will receive much-needed support in its ongoing defense against Russian aggression.
“This is one of the largest and most significant modernization projects for the Croatian Armed Forces,” said Minister Anušić. “Alongside our ongoing modernization of the Croatian Air Force and Navy, we are now taking a major step in upgrading our armored forces. The Leopard 2A8 is one of the finest tanks available, and this agreement ensures that Croatia will be fully equipped with this advanced capability.”
Minister Pistorius emphasized Croatia’s reliability as a defense partner and expressed appreciation for Croatia’s commitment to regional stability in the Western Balkans. “Croatia’s decision to invest in its armed forces by joining our Leopard 2A8 program demonstrates the strength of our bilateral relations and Croatia’s dedication to NATO and European security,” Pistorius noted.
The acquisition of the Leopard 2A8 tanks will significantly bolster Croatia’s defense capabilities while shortening the timeline to meet NATO’s 2% of GDP defense spending target. Croatia’s recent procurements, including the HIMARS M142 rocket system and UAVs, have already accelerated its path towards this goal. Minister Anušić affirmed that Croatia will likely achieve the 2% target well ahead of the previously set 2027 deadline.
The ministers also discussed the broader security situation in Southeastern Europe and reiterated their countries’ steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine. To date, Croatia has provided over 200 million euros in military aid to Ukraine, and the Leopard 2A8 collaboration will further enhance Ukraine’s resilience.
Anušić also extended his gratitude to Pistorius for Germany’s assistance in the recent evacuation of a Croatian officer from the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon, underscoring the strong and cooperative bond between the two nations.
This defense partnership between Croatia, Germany, and Ukraine demonstrates the power of solidarity in times of need, highlighting a shared commitment to regional security and strengthening NATO’s defensive posture in Europe.
Edited: Katerina Urbanova