In December 2024, the Croatian Air Force received its first Dassault Rafale fighter jets, significantly increasing its defense and attack capabilities. The upgrade will replace the previous MiG-21 aircraft and will bring the Croatian Air Force up to NATO standards and strengthen the country’s role within the alliance.
Once a symbol of Croatian air power, the MiG-21 occupies an important place in the country’s history. During the Croatian War of Independence (1991-1995), the MiG-21 played a pivotal role in the establishment of Croatia’s emerging air force. Croatia initially had no formal air force, but the acquisition of several MiG-21s during the conflict enabled it to assert control of its airspace.
The MiG-21 was a revolutionary supersonic jet fighter designed by the Soviet Union’s Mikoyan Gurevich Design Bureau. First introduced in 1959, it was the first to successfully combine fighter and interceptor capabilities. Widely produced and cost-effective, it was the mainstay of Warsaw Pact countries during the Cold War and proved capable of engaging Western aircraft.
The Rafale program represents a modernization effort to bring Croatia’s aviation capabilities in line with NATO commitments. Known for its versatility, the Rafale is a twin-engine multirole fighter aircraft capable of air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. This is expected to significantly strengthen Croatia’s ability to contribute to NATO’s collective defense initiative.
The transition reflects Croatia’s efforts to modernize its military infrastructure and maintain its relevance within the alliance. The arrival of the Rafale fighter jets highlights the country’s progress from Cold War-era equipment to a fully NATO-compatible air force ready to meet modern security challenges.
Source: Allied Air Forces Command Public Affairs Office.
