by croatiaweek
September 2, 2025
in
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
The Croatian Air Force has been reinforced with a new modern capability following the official introduction of the Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial system.
The ceremony took place on 2 September 2025 at Colonel Marko Živković Barracks at Pleso.
After the arrival of Rafale multi-role fighter jets, the addition of the Bayraktar TB2 system marks another important step in the modernisation of Croatia’s defence forces.
Six Bayraktar TB2 drones will be operated by members of the 125th Fighter Reconnaissance Squadron of the Croatian Air Force.
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
Defence Minister Ivan Anušić expressed satisfaction with the demonstration of the new system, saying:
“Today we had the opportunity to observe the impressive operational capabilities of the Bayraktar, demonstrated by our personnel who trained in Türkiye. The Bayraktar has numerous applications, not only in combat operations but also in civilian roles such as search and rescue.”
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Croatia, General Tihomir Kundid, highlighted the importance of the acquisition:
“Unmanned aerial systems are no longer just support – they have become a key element of the combat power of the Croatian Armed Forces. With Bayraktars and other systems such as FPV drones, the Croatian military is equipping itself with strategic-level capabilities.”
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
Colonel Andrej Tijan, commander of the 125th Squadron, praised the rapid and successful implementation of the project.
“In a very short time, the Croatian Army and Air Force have mastered the task and once again proven capable of carrying out even the most complex projects,” he said.
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
Tijan explained that each Bayraktar is operated by two highly trained pilots, while also noting that the first group of personnel completed their training in Türkiye from April to August this year with above-average results. A second group will undertake training next year.
A system used worldwide
The Bayraktar TB2, already in service in 37 countries including NATO members, is designed for reconnaissance, electronic warfare, surveillance, and precision strikes both day and night.
Croatia’s package includes six drones, a command and control centre, training simulators, ground control stations, data stations, spare parts, associated weapons, and full logistical and technical support.
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
Turkish company Baykar will provide technical specialists in Croatia for two years, alongside further training opportunities in Türkiye.
Beyond military use, the Bayraktar TB2 can also be deployed for border monitoring, fire detection, reconnaissance, and data collection.
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
This opens opportunities for cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction and State Assets.
(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)
The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Ivan Anušić, General Tihomir Kundid, Turkish Ambassador to Croatia Hayriye Nurdan Erpulat Altuntaş, and members of the Croatian Air Force.