NATO announced that Croatia has entered a new era of air defense, taking full responsibility for protecting its airspace with modern Dassault Rafale fighter jets as of January 1, 2026.
According to NATO, the Croatian Rafales have been integrated into the alliance’s air and missile defense system, enhancing national capabilities while contributing to NATO’s collective defense.
“The transition from MiG-21 jets to Rafales represents a “significant technological and operational leap,” NATO said in a Facebook post. The new aircraft are equipped with advanced sensors, fully interoperable with allied forces, and directly linked to NATO command and control systems.
During the transition, Italy and Hungary provided temporary air defense coverage for Croatia, a NATO statement said, highlighting alliance solidarity.
NATO added that Croatian crews are now fully trained, with Rafales on constant 24/7 alert, strengthening both national security and NATO’s collective defense posture.