Orqa, a Croatia-based specialist in drone and unmanned systems technology, has entered into a cooperation agreement with Qatar’s Barzan Holdings to examine opportunities for local production of unmanned platforms in Qatar. The agreement was signed during DIMDEX 2026 in Doha, underscoring growing defense-industrial ties between Croatia and Qatar.
The cooperation framework focuses on evaluating industrial partnership options, with an emphasis on localized manufacturing of Orqa’s drone systems to support regional operational needs. Both companies said the agreement establishes the groundwork for long-term collaboration in unmanned technologies and defense manufacturing.
Croatian Defense Minister Ivan Anušić highlighted unmanned systems as a critical capability for modern armed forces, noting that Orqa’s products are European-made solutions with increasing export demand. He also stressed that expanding Croatia’s defense industrial base contributes to national resilience by lowering dependence on foreign defense suppliers.
The Qatar agreement comes amid Croatia’s expanding defense partnerships and procurement initiatives. Over the past two years, the country has advanced its air force modernization with the introduction of Rafale fighter jets, confirmed additional armored vehicle acquisitions with Patria of Finland, and strengthened cooperation with the US through programs supporting the overhaul and sustainment of Bradley IFVs. Together, these efforts reflect Croatia’s strategy to modernize its forces while deepening international industrial collaboration.
