VIDEO: Croatian rafales and American F-16s take to the skies together in Croatia
- by croatiaweek
- in News
(Photo: HVU/ S. Španić)
A joint training exercise between the Croatian Air Force and the United States Air Force took place on 12 and 13 March 2025 at the “Colonel Marko Živković” barracks in Velika Gorica.
The exercise saw Croatian Rafale fighter jets flying alongside American F-16s from the 31st Fighter Wing, stationed at Aviano Air Base in Italy.
(Photo: HVU/ S. Španić)
The training focused on improving cooperation, exchanging experience, and enhancing the readiness of both forces.
Croatian Air Force Colonel Vlado Pavlinec highlighted the importance of such exercises, stating that they not only boost pilot training and interoperability but also strengthen the support and coordination between ground crews.
(Photo: HVU/ S. Španić)
“By training together, we increase our skills, share knowledge, and improve our ability to carry out flight missions. These exercises also help in technical support, aircraft maintenance, and the planning of future missions,” said Pavlinec.
(Photo: HVU/ S. Španić)
The joint flights provided valuable experience for Croatian pilots flying the Rafale, allowing them to refine their skills in cooperation with their experienced NATO allies.
(Photo: HVU/ S. Španić)
(Photo: HVU/ S. Španić)
(Photo: HVU/ S. Španić)
The exercise also reinforced trust and partnership within the alliance while enhancing the overall readiness of the Croatian Armed Forces.
Such collaborations are crucial in ensuring that the Croatian Air Force remains prepared for any mission, while also deepening ties with key international partners.
