The acquisition of eight UH-60M Black Hawk aircraft represents a significant and pivotal moment for the Croatian Armed Forces and Croatia, Defence Minister Ivan Anušić said at the Lučko barracks during the signing of the contract with the United States for their purchase.
"This is a significant and crucial moment for the armed forces, for Croatia as a whole, and a confirmation of our alliance and excellent cooperation with the United States," Anušić said.
The minister noted that the cooperation between the Croatian Armed Forces and the United States has been ongoing since the Homeland War.
The Homeland War is the cornerstone of the Croatian state
"The Homeland War is the cornerstone of the Croatian state. It's imperative that we acknowledge our allies and the support received when it was most crucial. The victorious army of the Republic of Croatia will forever remember this," he added.
The total value of the eight UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters stands at USD273.8 million. While four helicopters will be provided to Croatia through a donation from the United States, the remaining four will be procured from the Croatian state budget.
The financial assistance from the United States covers 51 percent of the total amount, while the Ministry of Defence will provide the remaining amount in the three-year budget period from 2025 to 2027.
Delivery of all helicopters, along with their equipment, is expected to be completed by 2028.
Currently, Croatia has four UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, two of which were donated by the United States government.
The Black Hawk helicopters represent a significant investment in security and defence
The U.S. Ambassador to Croatia, Nathalie Rayes, stated that the Black Hawk helicopters represent a "significant investment" in security and defence and are one of the most effective aircraft of its kind.
With the procurement of Black Hawk helicopters, our steadfast alliance will be further strengthened, the U.S. ambassador said.
The signing of the contract was attended by the Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, General Tihomir Kundid, and the Commander of the Croatian Air Force, General Michael Križanec.
Text: Hina
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