In support of Croatia’s efforts to upgrade its defense capabilities, the United States is providing $4.2 million in special assistance for the establishment of the Croatian military’s new Cyber Security Operations Center and mobile Cyber Incident Response Team, while the Government of Croatia is also contributing funds. A range of complementary U.S.-funded programs will facilitate the advancement of Croatia’s Cyber Command with equipment, training, and technology needed to prevent cyber intrusions and defend Croatian military and Ministry of Defense (MoD) networks. The initiative will result in an experienced cadre of Croatian specialists who will lead and train the MoD’s next generation of cyber-security experts, giving Croatia the ability to thwart future attacks.
“The United States and Croatia are serious about cyber security. We work closely together to fight cyber threats globally,” said U.S. Ambassador Robert Kohorst. The Ambassador further noted “This new Cyber Operations Center will protect Croatian Ministry of Defense networks. The U.S.-Croatia defense partnership is advancing substantively and consistently forward.”
Croatia is a steadfast defense partner and reliable NATO ally of the United States working to advance peace and stability both globally and in Southeastern Europe. The U.S. Government continues to provide military assistance to Croatia in the form of training, equipment, and specialty education at top U.S. military schools. In just the last 10 years, Croatia has received over $700 million from the United States in support of Croatia’s military modernization and capability development. This funding facilitated procurement of a range of high-end equipment including Blackhawk and Kiowa helicopters, Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, water purification systems, night vision devices, and communications technology.