Croatia has announced plans to dramatically scale up the manufacturing of first-person view (FPV) drones, citing growing demand from both domestic forces and NATO allies. The move could see annual production soar from hundreds of thousands to several million, positioning Croatia as a significant player in the international defense industry.
Key Takeaways
- Croatia plans to boost FPV drone production from 200,000 to several million units per year.
- Drones are fully designed and manufactured domestically.
- Current customers include Croatia, Bulgaria, the US, France, and Saudi Arabia.
- New investments in anti-drone protection are expected, including partnerships with domestic and international companies.
- The initiative underscores Croatia’s growing stature within NATO’s defense technology sphere.
Croatia’s FPV Drone Production Capacity
Currently, Croatia produces approximately 200,000 FPV drones annually. This output already supplies not only its own military but also the armed forces of several allies, including the United States, France, Bulgaria, and Saudi Arabia.
The Croatian Ministry of Defense revealed that the country is prepared to rapidly escalate this capacity to meet surging global demand, with targets set at half a million drones per year—and potentially several million if envisioned projects are realized.
100% Croatian-Made Defense Technology
Defense Minister Ivan Anušić emphasized that these drones are designed and manufactured entirely in Croatia. He described the drones as high-quality and efficient, underscoring their popularity among multiple international partners. This focus on domestic production ensures strategic control over technology and supply chains.
NATO and International Collaboration
Croatia’s expanded drone production is not happening in isolation. The initiative is closely tied to NATO priorities and will strengthen the country’s role within the alliance. At the recent Sava Star 25 military exercise near Đakovo, Croatian and British forces demonstrated advanced joint tactical operations, highlighting the close cooperation and shared security goals among allies.
Focus on Counter-Drone Capabilities
In addition to ramping up drone manufacturing, Croatia is advancing its anti-drone technologies. Plans are in place to soon sign agreements with both Croatian and foreign companies for the development of systems that protect critical infrastructure from drone threats. These counter-drone solutions may later be deployed at NATO facilities, further integrating Croatia’s defense industry into alliance-wide strategies.
Outlook: Croatia’s Role in Defense Innovation
By pulling ahead in FPV drone manufacturing and counter-drone systems, Croatia is positioning itself as a technological and manufacturing hub within both the regional and global defense sectors. If production goals are met, the country may soon be recognized as one of the world’s leading suppliers of tactical drones.
