ZAGREB, 8 April (Hina) – Defence Minister Ivan Anušić announced on Tuesday that Croatia will increase its defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, reaching 3% by 2030.
Anušić made the statement during the opening address at the Adriatic Sea Defence & Aerospace (ASDA) exhibition and conference, held for the first time at Zagreb’s Arena sports hall.
Croatia is hosting ASDA for the eighth time, showcasing advanced military technologies and equipment, including Leopard tanks, HIMARS artillery systems, and Bayraktar combat drones set to enter Croatian Army service.
“Many European and otherВ countries are seriously reconsidering their security strategies in response to current threats to Europe,” said Anušić .
He emphasised Croatia’s push to strengthen its domestic defence industry and deepen cooperation with allies, adding that the exhibition provides a platform for bilateral talks and partnerships.
“Our strategy is to support domestic companies developing new technologies and knowledge, aiming for self-sufficiency in military equipment and weaponry,” Anušić noted.
ASDA 2025, running from 8 to 10 April, is held under the patronage of the Croatian government and with support from the Ministry of Defence. It is organised by US-based TNT Productions LLC.
This year, 235 companies from 27 countries are presenting weapons, equipment, and technologies. ASDA has become a key regional and European defence, aerospace and security event, attracting a growing number of global exhibitors.
Major participants include Lockheed Martin, Dassault Aviation, Thales, Rafael, KNDS, Kongsberg, Baykar, Saab, L3Harris, MBDA, Aselsan, Šestan Busch, HS Produkt, Cateks, Brodosplit, Insig2, and ZTC.
TNT director Justin Webb also spoke at the opening ceremony, thanking Croatia’s Defence Ministry and delegations from Southeast Europe, Western Europe, the US, Asia, and the Middle East. The Croatian Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid, was also in attendance.
