Croatia has entered into an agreement to purchase 18 Caesar MkII self-propelled howitzers from France.
The contract for the 18 Caesar 155mm systems, including accompanying equipment and expanded capabilities, is estimated at about 328 million euros ($382 million). Deliveries are slated for 2030.
The MkII version incorporates improved armor protection for the crew, better mobility, and upgraded communication systems.
In addition, Croatia has procured 15 Serval armored vehicles, and the two nations signed a letter of intent to modernize Croatia’s fleet of 12 Rafale F3-R fighters to the F4 standard.
The Rafales, purchased in 2021 for 999 million euros ($1.16 billion), were intended to replace Croatia’s outdated MiG-21 aircraft.
Croatia’s parliamentary defense committee previously approved these acquisitions, as well as plans to acquire Leopard 2A8 tanks, an anti-drone capability, and Tatra military trucks.
Together, these purchases are part of a wider 1.9-billion-euro ($2.21-billion) modernization plan to enhance national defense capabilities, strengthen local industry, and boost alignment with NATO allies.
The Caesar procurement will be partially financed through the EU’s SAFE (Security Action for Europe) program, which extends loans at 1-percent interest with repayment terms stretching up to 40 years.
