All details of new mandatory military training in Croatia revealed

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

ZAGREB, 10 July 2025 – At its 106th session held today, the Croatian Government adopted key proposals that will shape the future of national defence

These include the new Defence Strategy of the Republic of Croatia, the Long-Term Development Plan of the Croatian Armed Forces (CAF) for 2025 to 2036, and amendments to the Defence Act and the Act on Service in the Croatian Armed Forces, the Ministry of the Defence said in a statement.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Ivan Anušić presented the documents at the session, emphasising the strategic importance of these decisions in the current security landscape.

Minister Anušić described the new Defence Strategy as a crucial document aligned with NATO and European Union frameworks.

It reflects the contemporary geopolitical environment and recognises emerging domains such as cyber and space, as well as the growing impact of modern technologies on warfare.

“The Strategy is designed for today’s realities. It prioritises integrated action across all sectors of the defence system,” said Anušić.

He also referred to recent decisions made at the NATO summit in The Hague, highlighting increased defence spending commitments. Croatia aims to raise defence expenditure to at least 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027, and to 3 percent by 2030.

Minister Ivan Anušić (Photo: MORH/ J. Kopi)

The Long-Term Development Plan sets out national priorities for deterrence and defence, fulfilling NATO and EU obligations. It outlines the balanced development of the Croatian Armed Forces through the integration of new technologies and continued modernisation.

Special attention is given to personnel development and the introduction of a modern career management system. “The goal is to strengthen the professional culture of the armed forces, rooted in the values of the Homeland War, and ensure sustainable growth in staffing,” said Anušić.

Infrastructure investments will focus on improving the living and working conditions of military personnel, while also supporting the operational deployment of new systems and technology.

Mandatory Basic Military Training to Be Introduced

As part of the proposed amendments to the Defence Act and the Act on Service in the Armed Forces, a legal framework will be introduced for mandatory basic military training.

This training will apply to individuals in the calendar year they turn 19, lasting two months and conducted at three locations: Knin, Slunj and Požega.

The plan allows for up to five training cohorts annually, with up to 800 recruits per cohort, totalling a maximum of 4,000 recruits per year.

During the training period, recruits will receive a monthly net salary of approximately 1,100 euros. This period will count towards their pensionable service.

Employed individuals will retain their job rights under the Labour Act and will be entitled to the same salary during training.

Graduates of the basic military training will also have a hiring advantage in state and local government bodies under equal conditions.

Minister Anušić also announced measures aimed at improving the standard of living for professional soldiers. This includes the introduction of housing support for those who do not have accommodation in the place of service.

“The soldier is the core of our defence system. The Government, in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence, will continue to take all necessary steps to improve the lives and working conditions of our military personnel,” concluded Anušić.