ZAGREB, 20 Dec (Hina) – The government on Friday granted the Defence Ministry approval to use state budget funds from 2025 to 2029 for the procurement of the HIMARS multiple rocket launcher system from the United States, amounting to €262.85 million plus VAT.

In addition to launchers and guided rockets, the package includes other goods and services, training, and logistical support necessary for the system’s effective operation.

Our Armed Forces will gain new capabilities for effective rocket operations at medium and long ranges, Defence Minister Ivan Anušić said at a government session. “The government and the Ministry of Defence are firmly committed to further enhancing and modernising the capabilities of all branches of the Croatian arm, as this is directly an investment in the security of all our citizens and support for NATO goals and capabilities.”

He explained that a letter of offer and acceptance for this system had been received from the U.S. government, with a total value of $289.97 million. The ministry is also obligated to pay VAT on the goods and services to be delivered, amounting to $60.7 million. The ministry’s total commitment for the HIMARS procurement from 2024 to 2029 is $350.7 million.

Additionally, the ministry received approval, also charged to the state budget in 2026, for the modernisation of the AN/FPS-117 radar system. The total procurement value is €45 million, with complete delivery planned during 2026.

The modernisation will enable enhanced data processing capabilities, automatic threat recognition, reduced reaction times, and improved detection of low-flying targets with small radar cross-sections.

The government also sent to parliament amendments to the law on relations between Croatia and Croats abroad to align it with the law on the organisation and scope of state administration bodies. These changes are due to the newly established Ministry of Demography and Immigration, which has taken over certain functions of the Central State Office for Croats Abroad, specifically those related to creating conditions for the return of emigrants and their integration into the country’s economic and social life.