Croatia secures accelerated delivery of Black Hawk and HIMARS systems

military modernization Black Hawk helicopters HIMARS missile systems defense procurement NATO standards

Croatia has secured an accelerated delivery schedule for advanced American military equipment. Following meetings in Alabama with U.S. Armed Forces representatives, Defense Minister Ivan Anušić confirmed that eight Black Hawk helicopters and eight HIMARS missile systems are now expected to arrive by late 2027 or early 2028, significantly earlier than the original third-quarter 2028 estimate.

The acquisition of the eight new helicopters will complete a full squadron of 12 Black Hawks for the Croatian Air Force, providing support for land forces, the navy, and special forces. Additionally, negotiations are in the final stages for long-range missiles for the HIMARS systems, with a potential range exceeding 150 kilometers. The U.S. side has reportedly expressed no issues with providing these long-range capabilities.

This procurement is part of a broader military modernization plan aimed at replacing older equipment with NATO-standard technology by 2030. This includes the status of Bradley infantry fighting vehicles and the modernization of air defense radar systems.