Six TB2 UAVs Assigned to the 125th Combat Reconnaissance Squadron

On 2 September, the Croatian Air Force officially introduced the Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) during a ceremony at Colonel Marko Živković Barracks in Pleso. As part of the programme, six UAVs were assigned to the 125th Combat Reconnaissance Squadron, with Croatian personnel trained in Türkiye now beginning their duties.

High-Level Attendance and Live Demonstration

The ceremony was attended by Croatia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić, Chief of the General Staff General Tihomir Kundid, and other senior military officials. During the live demonstration, Anušić assessed the TB2’s performance, emphasising that the system would contribute not only to combat missions but also to search and rescue and disaster response operations.

“From Support Asset to Strategic Power”

General Kundid highlighted that unmanned aerial systems have evolved from being mere support assets into one of the main components of the Croatian Armed Forces’ combat power. He added that, alongside strategic systems such as the Bayraktar TB2, Croatia is also expanding its capabilities with FPV drones and tactical UAVs.

Training Completed in Türkiye

Colonel Andrej Tijan, Commander of the 125th Squadron, stressed the significance of the rapid and successful integration. Between April and August 2025, all personnel completed the training programme in Türkiye with above-average results. A second group of trainees is scheduled to begin training in Türkiye next year.

Delivery and Technical Support

The package delivered to Croatia includes six aircraft, a command-and-control centre, a simulator, ground control stations, data terminals, munitions, spare parts, and two years of technical support from Baykar specialists. The system also comes with a two-year warranty and continuous training support.

Bayraktar TB2’s Multi-Role Capabilities

The Bayraktar TB2 can be deployed for reconnaissance, surveillance, electronic warfare, and precision strike missions with smart munitions. With day-and-night operational capability, it is currently in active service with 37 countries, including NATO members. In addition to combat operations, it can also be used for border security, wildfire monitoring, intelligence gathering, and disaster management.

NATO and Civilian Applications

Croatian officials stated that the TB2 would make a significant contribution to NATO missions, while the Ministries of Interior, Agriculture, and Construction could also employ the UAV for civilian purposes. With its induction, Croatia has added a strategically proven combat platform to its inventory.