Croatia to guard its own skies with Rafales from January 1st

(Patria) - NATO announced yesterday that Croatia is entering a new era of its air defense from January 1, 2026, as it will then fully assume responsibility for the protection of its own airspace with modern Rafale fighter jets.

In a Facebook post, the Alliance stated that Croatian Rafales will be integrated into NATO's integrated air and missile defense system, thereby strengthening Croatia's own capabilities and contributing to the Alliance's collective defense.

It is also stated that the transition from MiG-21 aircraft to Dassault Rafale represents a major technological and operational leap.

The Alliance also states that the new aircraft bring modern sensors, full interoperability with allies, and direct involvement in NATO's command and control systems.

NATO reminds that during the transitional period, Italy and Hungary provided continuous protection of Croatian airspace, which was described in the post as a clear example of allied solidarity.

According to NATO's announcement, Croatian crews are now fully trained, and the Rafales are on constant standby 24 hours a day, seven days a week, further strengthening national security and NATO's collective defense.