900 recruits take oath in Croatia’s second mandatory military training intake

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

ZAGREB, 3 June 2026 – A total of 900 recruits of the second cohort of Croatia’s basic military training have sworn their military oath in ceremonies held across three locations in Croatia – Požega, Knin and Slunj.

The solemn ceremonies took place at the “123rd Brigade HV” barracks in Požega, the “General-bojnik Andrija Matijaš – Pauk” barracks in Knin, and the “Eugen Kvaternik” military training ground near Slunj.

The recruits formally pledged allegiance to the Republic of Croatia as part of their two-month basic military training programme.

Minister Anušić: “Wear the uniform with pride”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić attended the ceremony in Slunj, where he congratulated the recruits on their commitment to serve.

He thanked them for choosing to serve the country and emphasised the importance of wearing the Croatian military uniform with pride.

“Thank you for your decision to swear allegiance to the Croatian state and serve your homeland during two months of military training,” Anušić said.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

He also highlighted the role of families in raising the recruits and expressed hope that some will pursue a professional military career within the Armed Forces.

At the Knin ceremony, the Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces Tihomir Kundid addressed the recruits, stressing that military service requires discipline, resilience and responsibility.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

He said the training will help recruits develop strength and confidence, adding that discipline in the military context is not about pressure, but about maintaining stability in challenging situations.

The Commander of the Croatian Army Blaž Beretin also congratulated the recruits, stating that they had demonstrated courage, responsibility and patriotism by joining the programme.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

He added that the Croatian Army sees them as future leaders and professionals the country can rely on.

Among the recruits, Karlo Pejić said he had already gained practical skills including first aid, navigation, weapons handling and drone systems. He encouraged future recruits not to be afraid, highlighting the value of discipline and learning from instructors.

Another recruit, Antonio Matanović, said he felt proud to have joined the Croatian Armed Forces and expressed interest in continuing his career in the defence system after completing training.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

Training structure and participation

The second cohort of basic military training is being conducted from 18 May to 18 July 2026.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

A total of:

• 400 recruits are training in Požega

• 300 recruits in Knin

• 200 recruits in Slunj

Of the 900 participants, 53 are women. A total of 274 recruits voluntarily applied for the programme.

(Photo: MORH/ J. Šeri)

The intake also includes Croatian wrestler and athlete Veronika Vilk, who is expected to become a contracted reserve member after completing training.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

As basic military training began in March, two further cohorts are expected to complete training by the end of the year.