Photo Report: Thousands gather as Croatian Army shows off modern capabilities

by croatiaweek
May 31, 2026
in News

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

ZAGREB, 31 May 2026 – Thousands of citizens gathered at Jarun Lake and Ban Jelačić Square in Zagreb to mark Croatian Armed Forces Day, Croatian Army Day, the 35th anniversary of the establishment of the Croatian Army, and Croatia’s Statehood Day.

The Croatian Armed Forces presented their capabilities, equipment and operational readiness through a full-day programme featuring military displays on land, water and in the air.

The event began in Ban Jelačić Square with performances by the Croatian Armed Forces Symphonic Wind Orchestra and the Honour Guard Battalion, combining music, ceremonial drills and artistic performances.

The main programme took place at Jarun, where visitors viewed a wide range of military equipment, including Patria and Bradley armoured vehicles, M-84 tanks, PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers, rocket launch systems, drones and specialised military vehicles.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

A dynamic demonstration showcased the capabilities of Croatia’s special forces, air force and navy, including parachute operations, amphibious exercises and tactical drone demonstrations. Visitors also watched a live aerial feed from a Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aircraft operating during the event.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

The highlight of the celebration was the air display featuring aircraft and crews from Croatia and partner nations including the United States, France, Italy, Austria, Hungary and Slovenia. Particular attention was drawn to Croatia’s Rafale fighter jets, the Krila Oluje aerobatic team, and a joint flypast involving Croatian and French Rafales alongside Italian Eurofighter Typhoons.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

Throughout the day, visitors were also able to explore military career opportunities, while younger attendees took part in educational activities and virtual reality flight simulators.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

The event was attended by senior state and military officials, including Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandroković, Defence Minister Ivan Anušić, Chief of the General Staff General Tihomir Kundid, veterans, members of the armed forces and thousands of citizens.

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)

The celebrations provided the public with a close-up look at the modernisation, capabilities and readiness of the Croatian Armed Forces as they mark 35 years since their establishment.