Croatian Defence Minister Mario Banozic discussed the possibility of equipping the Croatian Army with US Bradley fighting vehicles with US officials on Wednesday, the Defence Ministry said.

They discussed “technical aspects of the US government’s offer of the possibility of equipping (the Croatian Army) with Bradley M2A2 ODS infantry fighting vehicles,” it added.

In addition to Minister Banozic, Croatia was represented by staff from the Prime Minister’s Office, the General Staff of the Armed Forces, the Defence Ministry, the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, and the branch commanders of the armed forces.

“The government will continue to support the modernisation and development of the capabilities of the Croatian Army. It is important that all branches of the Croatian Armed Force adjust their capabilities to present security challenges. The government will support all such efforts. In this context, it is important to us to continue developing excellent bilateral relations with our allies and partners,” Banozic said.

The press release said that the government seeks a good and viable investment in the long term, stressing the importance of estimating further investment in modernisation to ensure the long-term viability of these vehicles over the next 20 to 30 years.