Croatia Receives First Batch of M2A2 Bradley ODS Infantry Fighting Vehicles
The first M2A2 Bradley ODS (Operation Desert Storm) infantry fighting vehicle shipment through the US Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program has been successfully received by the Croatian Armed Forces. This first batch, consisting of a total of 22 vehicles, was transported to the port of Rijeka, Croatia, by US Navy officials with the cargo ship Ocean Freedom.
The armored vehicles were unloaded from the docked cargo ship using a crane, then loaded onto tractor trailers and transferred to the Đuro Đaković special vehicle facility, where they will be thoroughly restored. At this facility, the vehicles will go through a thorough restoration process that includes repair of the vehicle’s engine systems, integration of new weapon systems, painting, and inspection. Following the completion of the restoration activities, Djuro Djakovi Special Vehicles (DDSV) personnel will be trained and equipped to provide long-term maintenance of the Croatian Armed Forces’ Bradley fleet.
According to Mark Fleming, Charge d’Affaires at the US Embassy in the Republic of Croatia:
“Croatia’s acquisition of Bradley Fighting Vehicles makes a strong and capable Ally even stronger and more capable. It also marks another critical joint U.S.-Croatian investment in Croatia’s defense and our collective security as close NATO Allies. What is more, the acquisition shows the extended benefits of the U.S.-Croatia defense partnership with refurbishment at Djuro Djaković in Slavonski Brod, which is quickly becoming an important hub for this type of work, promoting the economic development of the region. We deeply appreciate our close partnership with the Croatian government on this important project for the benefit of both our countries.”
The delivery in question is part of a $196 million purchase agreement that the US and the Croatian governments signed in January of last year. This arrangement covers 89 M2A2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, which includes 62 combat vehicles, 22 spare parts vehicles, and five training vehicles. Croatia will pay a total of $145 million under the terms of this agreement, with the remaining $51 million coming from the United States as a grant.
The remaining 67 armored vehicles are scheduled to be delivered in various batches by the fourth quarter of 2026. These new purchases will replace Croatia’s existing BVP M-80A Infantry Fighting Vehicles and will significantly contribute to the development of the country’s defense capabilities.