Croatia to upgrade Rafale communications system in €33 million project

Croatia is investing 33 million euros, excluding VAT, to modernise the communications capabilities of its Air Force under a contract signed on Wednesday by Defence Minister Ivan Anušić.

The four-year project, running from 2026 to 2030, involves French technology company Thales and Croatian state-owned communications company Odašiljači i veze (OIV).

The goal is to establish a modern, secure and interoperable communications system that meets NATO standards.

OIV President Denis Nikola Kulišić said the company would carry out coverage studies, prepare locations, install and test the equipment, and train Defence Ministry personnel to operate the system.

Anušić said the project would upgrade the combat communications system on Croatia's Rafale fighter jets from the F3 to the F4 standard.

"With this contract, we are moving forward with the upgrade of the combat communications system on our fighter aircraft from the F3 to the F4 standard. By reaching this level, we will achieve the highest possible level of secure combat communications and protected data transmission, at a global level," Anušić said.

He described the modernisation as a logical step as armed forces around the world adopt new technologies and move towards fourth-generation capabilities while preparing for fifth-generation systems.

Kulišić said the project would establish secure communications between ground facilities and Croatia's new Rafale jets, with the equipment supplied by Thales.

"This is secure communication between the ground and the new Rafale aircraft, carried out in accordance with NATO standards. The equipment is supplied by Thales. What we do not have is domestic production of this equipment. The Ministry of Defence purchased the Rafale aircraft, but we at OIV have started training our personnel. We have engaged our people, who will be trained to operate this equipment, and we will be able to offer this F4 system to other countries that purchase Rafale aircraft," he explained.

The project is part of Croatia's broader effort to modernise and strengthen the capabilities of its armed forces while increasing the involvement of domestic companies in defence projects.

The partnership with Thales could also open opportunities for OIV to provide similar services to other countries operating or purchasing Rafale aircraft.