Advisor for the Defense of the President of Croatia Ivica Olujić recently gave a series of negative and inaccurate statements about the state of the Croatian Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defense in an interview with Nova TV. These comments come at a time when President Milanović has announced his re-election campaign, suggesting that Olujić's statements are motivated by the beginning of an unofficial campaign. The criticisms he made are aimed at discrediting the current government and military leadership, further emphasizing the political dimension of his statements.

We recall the period when the SDP government, led by then-Prime Minister Milanović, implemented significant austerity measures that resulted in the reduction of soldiers' material rights. During the term of that government in 2013, the value of the personal rank coefficient for salary calculation was reduced by three percent. Furthermore, certain categories of soldiers were left without basic food items such as soup and salad in their meals, which caused dissatisfaction within the military. Advisor Olujić was then the head of the Logistics Directorate of the General Staff and implemented these austerity measures.

Improvements in the current term
During the current term of Defense Minister Ivan Anušić, there have been significant improvements in the standard of living and material rights of soldiers. The modernization of the Croatian Army has continued at an accelerated pace, including the acquisition of 12 multipurpose Rafale fighter jets, which will further strengthen the country's defense capabilities. This procurement represents the largest investment in the capabilities of the Croatian Army ever, bringing Croatia's defense spending to 2% of GDP, which is the goal of all NATO members.

Salaries for soldiers and non-commissioned officers have increased by an average of 30 percent, while allowances for Voluntary Military Training have increased to 900 euros. The per diem for peace support operations and other activities abroad has also increased by up to 30 percent. Minister Anušić emphasized that the Ministry of Defense's budget will not be reduced, but that investments in modernization and priority armament procurement will continue. Modernization does not only refer to equipment but also to working and living conditions for soldiers, including the construction of new military facilities.

Increase in interest in military training
Interest in Voluntary Military Training has significantly increased. In the first five months of this year, 451 candidates applied, which is 73 percent of the applications for the entire year 2023. This increase in the number of candidates is a result of improvements in the standards and material rights of soldiers and continuous promotion of the Croatian Army. The Ministry of Defense conducts continuous information and promotion campaigns to make the public aware of all the opportunities and benefits that a military career offers.

New acquisitions and infrastructure
The Croatian Army is also modernizing through the acquisition of an additional eight Black Hawk helicopters, Bradley and Patria vehicles, and significant investments in military infrastructure. The construction of new facilities is planned, such as a multipurpose building at the "Colonel Milivoj Halar" barracks in Dugo Selo, which will serve as a training center for military police officers and service dogs.

The arrival of Bradley combat vehicles and additional Black Hawk helicopters will be partly financed by the US Government and partly by the Croatian Government. These investments ensure that the Croatian Army remains modern and ready for all challenges. Overall, the Ministry of Defense's budget has increased by 122 percent since 2016, ensuring funds for modernization and improving soldiers' living conditions.

Access to new systems and international cooperation
With new systems such as Rafale aircraft and increased military spending, Croatia shows seriousness in its approach to defense and security, as well as commitment to NATO membership. In addition to the acquisition of new equipment, emphasis is also placed on international cooperation and participation in NATO exercises, further strengthening Croatia's position within the international community.

The Croatian Government continues to invest in military modernization, aiming for the Croatian Army to be among the most modern in the region. These investments not only improve the operational capabilities of the army but also strengthen the security and stability of the country in a challenging geopolitical environment. The Croatian Army is becoming an increasingly important factor in regional security, ready to respond to all challenges that may arise in the future.

The increase in interest in military service is also an indicator of citizens' trust in the Croatian Army and its capabilities. The Ministry of Defense continues to work on improving conditions and promoting the military profession, including additional measures to improve working conditions in the Croatian Army. Continuous efforts in modernization and improving standards ensure that the Croatian Army remains a respectable force in the region.