Člani 7. hrvaške kontingenta, ki so bili spremljeni v Litvo

On Thursday, the 7th Croatian contingent, comprising 88 personnel including six women, was officially sent to Lithuania as part of NATO’s Forward Land Forces (FLF) multinational battle group under German command. The Ministry of Defence of Croatia (MORH) announced the deployment during a ceremony held at the Bilogora barracks in Bjelovar. The unit will be stationed at Rukla military base and will participate in training exercises, interoperability improvements, and integration into Lithuania's and NATO’s defense plans aimed at deterring threats and maintaining peace on NATO’s eastern flank. The contingent, led by Captain Josip Peco, has been deployed as part of Croatia’s ongoing contribution to NATO’s collective security efforts. This marks the seventh such mission since Croatia joined NATO in 2009. Since 2017, a total of 656 Croatian military personnel have participated in this activity, with 40 being female members. The deployment reflects Croatia’s commitment to strengthening its role within NATO’s structure and enhancing cooperation among allied nations. During the farewell ceremony, State Secretary Branko Hrg, acting on behalf of Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ivan Anušić, expressed his hopes for the successful and safe execution of the mission and wished the soldiers a joyful return home. He emphasized that their participation contributes to the enhancement of security on NATO’s eastern flank, the deterrence of potential threats, and the preservation of stability in Europe. Hrg also acknowledged the silent strength behind each successful military operation, the families of the soldiers, saying they are the true backbone of national defense. Captain Josip Peco confirmed that all personnel are fully prepared to carry out their tasks in an international environment. The unit will engage in training and exercises designed to improve joint operations capabilities and ensure readiness for defending NATO’s interests. The mission aligns with broader NATO objectives of reinforcing collective defense and promoting stability in the region. The presence of Croatian forces in Lithuania underscores the country’s strategic alignment with NATO’s goals and its willingness to contribute to regional security. The multinational battle group, commanded by Germany, includes troops from several NATO member states working together to maintain a rapid response capability along NATO’s eastern borders. Croatia’s involvement in these activities demonstrates its continued support for NATO’s integrated defense posture and its active participation in alliance-building initiatives. A number of high-ranking officials attended the farewell ceremony, including General Robert Suntešić, head of Personnel Administration at the Main Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Croatia; General Valentin Skroza, deputy commander of the Croatian Ground Forces; General Željko Marinov, commander of the Guard Armored Mechanized Brigade; General Mirko Stošić, commander of the Guard Mechanized Brigade; and representatives from the families of the deployed personnel. Their attendance highlighted the significance of the mission both militarily and socially, underscoring the close ties between the armed forces and civilian communities. This latest deployment continues a long-standing tradition of Croatian military contributions to NATO missions, reflecting the nation’s deepening engagement with transatlantic security structures. As the contingent prepares to begin its duties in Lithuania, the focus remains on ensuring operational effectiveness, fostering interoperability, and supporting NATO’s broader strategic aims in the region.