PHOTOS: Croatian Military Academy Opens Its Doors to the Public in Zagreb and Split

(Photo: HVU)

A large number of interested citizens attended the Open Day of the Croatian Military Academy “Dr Franjo Tuđman” on Friday, 7 February 2026, held simultaneously at the “Petar Zrinski” Barracks in Zagreb and the “Admiral of the Fleet Sveto Letica – Barba” Barracks in Split.

The event attracted strong interest, particularly among secondary school graduates considering a military career, offering them a comprehensive insight into military education, cadet life and future professional opportunities within the Croatian Armed Forces.

Visitors were introduced to undergraduate and graduate university programmes conducted by the Croatian Military Academy in cooperation with the University of Defence and Security “Dr Franjo Tuđman” and the Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences in Zagreb.

(Photo: HVU)

The study programmes presented included Military Leadership and Management, Military Engineering, Military Maritime Studies – with specialisations in Military Navigation and Naval Engineering – and Aeronautics, offering pathways to become a military pilot or air traffic control officer.

(Photo: HVU)

Academy staff and cadets provided detailed information on enrolment conditions, selection procedures, cadet rights and obligations, the structure of military training, and the medical, psychological and physical assessments required for admission.

(Photo: HVU)

Zagreb: insight into cadet life and training

At the “Petar Zrinski” Barracks in Zagreb, the programme began with a screening of an introductory film on cadet service, followed by presentations on the cadet profession and academic pathways. These were delivered by Major Josip Kovačević, Commander of the Cadet Battalion, and Ante Gugić from the University of Defence and Security.

(Photo: HVU)

Visitors then toured the barracks and facilities, including accommodation areas, sports grounds, communications and engineering classrooms, the Cadet Club and the academy library. Military weapons and equipment used in training were also presented.

(Photo: HVU)

Particular interest was generated by a live demonstration of military working dogs from the Military Police Regiment, as well as a presentation of tactical drones operated by members of the Intelligence Regiment, highlighting the modern and technologically advanced aspects of contemporary military service.

Split: naval focus and fleet visits

An Open Day programme was also held in Split at the “Admiral of the Fleet Sveto Letica – Barba” Barracks, hosted by staff and cadets of the 6th Cadet Company, together with instructors from the Department of Maritime Operations led by Brigadier Tomislav Perić.

(Photo: HVU)

On behalf of the University of Defence and Security, visitors were addressed by Ivan Burazin, Head of the Military Maritime Studies Department.

During the visit, guests explored the barracks, accommodation facilities, sports areas, library and specialised classrooms used for maritime education and training. They were also introduced to weapons systems and military equipment used by cadets, as well as specialised equipment employed by mine-diving units.

A highlight for many visitors was the opportunity to tour Croatian Navy vessels, including the missile boat RTOP-41 Vukovar and the Coast Guard ship SB-72 Andrija Mohorovičić, offering a rare first-hand look at naval operations.

(Photo: HVU)

Cadets share first-hand experience

The Open Day in both Zagreb and Split enabled prospective students to speak directly with cadets from the “Predrag Matanović” Cadet Battalion, gaining an authentic understanding of daily life, academic demands and military discipline.

Cadet Dino Majstorović emphasised the importance of such events for young people seeking structured education and personal development.

(Photo: HVU)

“Many young people looking for a clear professional direction had the opportunity to visit the Croatian Military Academy and meet cadets,” Majstorović said. “I believe many recognised that the Academy educates future officers as well as responsible, disciplined and confident young people. Through direct conversations with cadets, visitors gained a realistic insight into the daily life and demands of studying at the Academy.”