The Croatian government has officially signed a contract with France to procure 18 Caesar MkII self-propelled howitzers as part of its expanding defense modernization agenda. Valued at approximately 328 million euros ($382 million), the agreement covers the artillery systems along with their associated equipment and support packages. Deliveries of the advanced 155mm Caesar MkII systems are slated to begin in 2030, providing a substantial enhancement to Croatia’s long-range precision fire capabilities.
The Caesar MkII brings several key improvements, including upgraded armor protection, enhanced mobility, and improved digital communications compared to earlier versions. Beyond the artillery order, Croatia has also purchased 15 Serval armored vehicles and signed a letter of intent with France to upgrade its 12 Rafale F3-R fighter jets to the more capable F4 configuration. These Rafales were originally acquired in a 2021 deal worth 999 million euros to replace Croatia’s outdated MiG-21 fleet.
Zagreb’s recent acquisitions align with recommendations from the parliamentary defense committee, which previously backed the procurement of Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks, an anti-drone defense system, and Tatra military logistics trucks. Collectively, these initiatives form part of a wider 1.9-billion-euro ($2.21-billion) effort to modernize Croatia’s armed forces, reinforce its defense industry, and improve interoperability with NATO partners.
The acquisition of the Caesar MkII systems will be partially financed through the EU’s SAFE (Security Action for Europe) program. SAFE provides member states with low-interest loans — capped at 1 percent — and generous repayment periods of up to 40 years, making it a key funding tool for major European defense investments.
