PHOTOS: How Knin spectacularly marked 30 years of Operation Storm
- by croatiaweek
- in News
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
Knin, 5 August 2025 – Croatia today commemorated the 30th anniversary of Operation Storm (Oluja) with pride, gratitude, and dignity. The national day of remembrance, which also marks Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian Defenders, was observed in Knin with a solemn and celebratory programme attended by thousands.
The central ceremony took place at the NK Dinara stadium in the presence of the country’s highest political and military officials. The event honoured the heroism of those who fought in the 1995 military-police operation that led to the liberation of occupied territories and the foundation of modern-day Croatia.
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
The day began with early morning commemorations, including a wreath-laying at the Croatian Victory Monument and a flag-raising ceremony on the Knin Fortress accompanied by the national anthem and ceremonial gunfire. Church bells echoed throughout the city, symbolically marking the occasion.
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
In a moving tribute, 245 cadets of the Croatian Army and Police Academy stepped forward on the fortress, honouring the same number of fallen and missing defenders from Operation Storm. Their names were read aloud by sons of fallen soldiers.
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić, himself a war veteran, expressed the deep emotional significance of the anniversary, noting the pride younger generations are showing in learning about Croatia’s recent history.
Prime Minister Andrej Plenković called Operation Storm a “historic turning point” and emphasised the importance of remembering and passing on its legacy. Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandroković highlighted the value of peace and freedom, urging citizens to remain grateful for the sacrifices made.
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
The day also featured an impressive joint display of military capabilities. Citizens witnessed a dynamic demonstration by Croatia’s Special Forces Command, the Croatian Air Force, and Intelligence Regiment. Aircraft including Black Hawk and Kiowa Warrior helicopters were showcased, with a breathtaking flyover by Rafale fighter jets captivating the crowd.
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
For the first time, Croatian-manufactured FPV drones were publicly demonstrated by Special Forces personnel, signalling modern advancements in the nation’s defence technology.
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
(Photo: MORH/ T. Brandt)
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The event concluded with a holy mass led by Archbishop Dražen Kutleša at the Church of Our Lady of the Great Croatian Baptismal Vow, followed by a traditional army bean stew for the public and an evening concert in Knin.
