First Bradley fighting vehicles delivered to Croatia

(Photo credit: MORH/ G. Resovac)

The Croatian Armed Forces have officially received their first Bradley M2A2 ODS infantry fighting vehicles, marking a significant step in modernising the nation’s defence capabilities.

The arrival of the first four Bradleys is part of a total of 89 vehicles donated by the United States government. This acquisition underscores Croatia’s commitment to NATO standards, as the country reaches its defence spending target of 2% of GDP.

(Photo credit: MORH/ G. Resovac)

A ceremony was held on 14 January 2025 at the “132nd Brigade HV” barracks in Našice, attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Ivan Anušić.

Minister Anušić highlighted the importance of the partnership between Croatia and the United States, which also includes acquiring Black Hawk helicopters and HIMARS rocket systems.

He expressed gratitude to U.S. Ambassador Nathalie Rayes for her role in fostering this collaboration.

“Our goal is to continue equipping and modernising the Croatian Armed Forces, ensuring better conditions for our personnel and strengthening our position as a NATO member,” said Minister Anušić.

(Photo credit: MORH/ G. Resovac)

Ambassador Rayes echoed these sentiments, noting that the delivery of the Bradley vehicles is a testament to the strong strategic alliance between the two nations.

She praised Croatia’s progress in defence investments, which currently allocate 29% of the defence budget to modernisation, exceeding NATO’s 20% benchmark.

The Bradley M2A2 ODS vehicles are part of a $196.4 million agreement signed in January 2022, with $51.2 million covered by the U.S. and $145.2 million funded by Croatia. Out of the 89 vehicles, 62 will undergo refurbishment at Đuro Đaković Special Vehicles in Slavonski Brod.

(Photo credit: MORH/ G. Resovac)

So far, eight vehicles have been refurbished, with four delivered to the 1st Armoured Mechanised Battalion “Sokolovi” of the Guards Armoured Mechanised Brigade. The remaining four are scheduled for delivery by the end of January.

(Photo credit: MORH/ G. Resovac)

Training is a key component of the project, with certified instructors from BAE Systems overseeing the process. Maintenance training (FLMNET) for mechanics began in October 2024, while operator training (OPNET) is now underway and will continue until March 2025.