republic of croatia ministry of defence

REPUBLIC OF CROATIAMINISTRY OF DEFENCE

Strategic Defence Review

Zagreb, 2005

RRespected reader, The Republic of Croatia has endured some very dramaticevents since its independence, including aggression and occupation of a portion of itsnational territory. It was then forced to liberate its occupied areas and rebuild thecountry in a demanding post-war recovery effort. Now, it faces dynamic reformsand meeting the necessary adjustments for its further balanced development.

During the entire time of its independence, Croatia’s defence system andArmed Forces have played a central role, either by ensuring national independenceand the liberation of its occupied territory or by acting as a key factor of reformsand meeting the conditions for membership in NATO and the European Union.

The document before you - while reflecting a thorough study of global security developments in theworld and in Croatia’s immediate environment - is primarily a response to the fundamental needs andpotential of our nation. At the same time, it also represents a significant step towards the practical real-isation of Croatia’s National Security Strategy and Defence Strategy.

In this regard, the Strategic Defence Review is a public document providing direction for developingthe defence system and the Croatian Armed Forces, ensuring that in the future they continue to protectthe vital interests of the Republic of Croatia and its citizens.

This Review addresses the most fundamental issues regarding the development of Croatia’s defence.The tangible measures stemming from this effort will be reflected in the plans and documents designedto elaborate defence issues in greater detail. Primarily, this implies the adoption of the Republic ofCroatian Armed Forces Long Term Development Plan, expected to establish reform priorities and time-lines. It is well known that the pace of defence transformation and modernization, for the most part,depends on a nation’s economic potential. However, by planning appropriately and carefully managingthe available resources, we can achieve our intended results.

The Strategic Defence Review is subject to further development and modification as it is affected byevents in the international environment as well as domestic changes. The security changes and risks thatmarked the beginning of the 21st Century have introduced a new set of rules for all of us. Therefore, it isnecessary for us to change and adapt our defence capabilities, as well as the way we think and behave inorder to meet the new requirements. Fully committed to promoting peace and security, we will develop adefence system and Armed Forces that meet modern requirements and are based on the realistic capaci-ties at our disposal. This very document perhaps best demonstrates the course Croatia will embark on incontributing to developing good neighbourly relations, peace and stability in the region.

The Croatian military is a victorious military that, under the most difficult conditions, includingfighting a war, demonstrated an exceptional ability to transform and adapt to new situations. For vari-ous reasons, the transformation dynamics in the last ten years have not been able to fully sustain thedemands of a new strategic security environment. Today, it is perfectly clear that those military organi-sations which do not change in response to the new tasks and requirements will quickly become obsoleteand inept to face the new challenges. The Republic of Croatia cannot allow its armed forces to suffersuch a fate.

President of the Republic and CAF Commander-in-ChiefStjepan MesiÊ

Zagreb, November, 10, 2005.

TThe Republic of Croatia fully secured freedom for all its citizens with victoryin the Homeland War. Defence reforms began immediately thereafter and lastedseveral years. In the last three years, the results of defence reforms are evidentprimarily through the downsizing of personnel and the reduction of the defencebudget. Is the defence reform thereby completed? The answer to this question isnot simple.

In seeking the proper answer to this question and following the experiences ofother countries, we decided to conduct a Strategic Defence Review. While conduct-ing the Strategic Defence Review it was necessary to include various governmentbodies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, the Ministry of the Interiorand the intelligence community.

The advice of NATO experts was exceptionally useful and their arrival in the Republic of Croatiaalways had an additional positive affect on the quality of the document itself.

We analysed the global security situation, especially in the surrounding environment, determined therequired capabilities of our defence system and, having considered our national needs and priorities,came to clear conclusions.

The world increasingly faces new forms of threats. International terrorism, smuggling of narcotics,weapons and human beings and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction create enormous chal-lenges for most states, thus becoming global concerns.

We acknowledged the need to improve the defence management system in order to realize ournational interests.

We paid special attention to defining future armed forces missions and tasks.In order to achieve a full operational capability of the defence system, it is necessary to begin train-

ing and equipping our units for the entire spectrum of operations. We will be able to achieve thisthrough a modern and flexibly organized defence system that will primarily be founded on well-trained,equipped and mobile armed force.

We also found it necessary to establish a better system of human, material and financial resourcemanagement. The availability of defence resources will determine the dynamics of Croatian defence sys-tem transformation. I can already say at this point that we will have adequate budgetary means forfinancing key armed forces equipping programs. We will also use the special military property conver-sion program as a source of funds for improving the overall defence infrastructure.

I would especially like to point out the direct influence of the Strategic Defence Review on thestrengthening of our team approach and better mutual understanding between all those responsible forleading our defence and security policy.

In conclusion, I would like to say that the Strategic Defence Review is a good basis for further reformof the defence system. It is the beginning of a story that will continue with the adoption of the ArmedForces Long Term Development Plan and will constitute a comprehensive framework necessary forbuilding the Croatian defence system of the 21st century.

Minister of Defence Berislav RonËeviÊ

6

Summary

TThe Croatian Ministry of Defence

initiated a Strategic Defence Review(SDR) in autumn 2003, intended to guidethe continued reforms of the CroatianArmed Forces (CAF) and its defence sys-tem as a whole. The SDR’s inter-agencyapproach is testimony of theGovernment’s determination to under-take comprehensive reforms that willenable Croatia’s national defence effortsto meet new challenges. A changing secu-rity environment, augmented role for thearmed forces, new capability require-ments, limited resources and Croatia’sfuture Euro-Atlantic obligations are justsome of the important issues that compela strong commitment to assess andreform its defence.

A threat and risk assessment indi-cates that a direct military threat toCroatia is highly unlikely, while non-tra-ditional challenges—such as internation-al terrorism, the proliferation of weaponsof mass destruction (WMD), organisedcrime, illegal trafficking, disasters andenvironmental degradation—representsignificantly growing security concerns.

Significant defence changes areexpected. Both military and civil defencecomponents will continue to be furtherdeveloped. The armed forces will becomefully professionalized and consist of anewly styled ‘contract’ reserve. Militarycapabilities that enable Croatia to partici-pate in international operations will beparticularly stressed. Changes will alsoconsist of developing other capabilitiesthat focus on the spectrum of CAF mis-sions and tasks, including the capacity toundertake non-combat operations.

The CAF will see significant changes,while retaining its services based struc-ture. Overall force downsizing will alsoinclude cutting the number of units andcommand headquarters. Capabilities nec-essary for conducting CAF missions andtasks will continue to be developed. Thetarget size of the CAF is a fully profes-

sionalized 16,000 strong force with 2,000civilian personnel and 8,000 ‘contract’reserves. Gradually, obligatory conscrip-tion will be suspended. Key doctrines,consistent with those of NATO, will beadopted by the end of 2007.

Interoperability with Allied forceswill be realized gradually. Nevertheless,CAF units and capabilities designated forinternational operations in the nearfuture are a priority. Ready forces willalso be given priority over the remainingelements of the defence system.

Human resource management planswill determine the dynamics of achievingthe targeted personnel structure and size.Recruiting, particularly in an effort totackle problems of an aging personnelstructure, will be intensified, and separa-tion programs will continue as planned.

Personnel management will be reor-ganised in order to meet the manydefence reform demands by ensuring aneffective personnel support process.Specialized military education and train-ing will be integrated with national edu-cation programs and the national classifi-cation of professions system so that se-parated military personnel would haverecognized qualifications that enablethem to be more competitive on the jobmarket.

Limited defence funding requires thatefforts to equip and modernize the armedforces be carefully prioritized. Precedencewill be given to meeting the interoper-ability requirements of contingents to bedeployed in multinational operations(primarily communications systems andforce protection equipment). Importancewill be attached to achieving Croatia’sPartnership Goals, the modernisation ofcommunications and information sys-tems at all levels, simulation trainingsystems and modern combat systemsthat need to replace existing obsoletesystems.

Defence acquisition will, whenever

possible and economically feasible, relyon domestic development and productioncapacities. International procurement andarms acquisition will be based on jointventures and offset programs with part-ner countries or foreign companies. Aprocurement and modernisation plan willbe developed and will determine the con-crete steps necessary to gradually meetCroatia’s military capability require-ments by 2015. This should include a fac-tor of flexibility given the difficulty inpredicting future budget allocations andpotential change in priorities.

Certain military facilities will not beretained, allowing for valuable resourcesto be reallocated to modernisationefforts. The remaining military sites willbe consolidated whenever feasible andcalled for.

The Ministry of Defence will also bereorganised. The organisational structurewill continue to be rationalized and activ-ities that are not narrowly related todefence management will be separated. Arelatively modest organisational struc-ture will be adopted and will enableCroatia to manage its national defence inan effective and affordable manner.

The General Staff will remain anintegral part of the Ministry of Defence.Functional areas, structural relationships,differentiation of responsibilities andstandard procedures will be defined by2006.

Defence policy is based on Croatia’sforeign and security policy and will con-tinue to direct defence efforts. Croatia’sforeign policy will guide a robust pro-gram of international defence co-opera-tion. The defence planning process willbe simplified, centralized and consistentwith that of NATO. Decision making onkey defence issues will be transparentand based on a comprehensive set of pre-determined procedures.

National legislation will be subject tochanges that enable Croatia to be an

effective international ally and partner infuture co-operative security efforts.

The Ministry of Defence will fullysupport strong inter-agency co-operationand strive to stress those activities thatpromote Croatia’s national security andstrengthen its defence capabilities. Thisincludes emergency and civil-militarycrisis planning, coast guard responsibili-ties, host nation support and other multi-faceted security-related issues.

Croatia will ensure that classifiedinformation is protected and safelyexchanged. A Ministry of Defence intelli-gence and security system will harmo-nize Croatia’s national and internationalrequirements.

An integrated information system -aimed at increasing administrative effec-tiveness, improving communications andpromoting transparency within thedefence organisation - will be established.

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8

Table of contents

SUMMARY.................................................................................................................................................6

1. INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................................9

2. STRATEGIC CONTEXT .....................................................................................................................11

2.1. SECURITY ENVIRONMENT............................................................................................................11

2.2. NATIONAL INTERESTS AND OBJECTIVES .....................................................................................12

2.3. THREATS AND RISKS ...................................................................................................................13

2.4. INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS ..................................................................................................14

3. DEFENCE SYSTEM ADJUSTMENTS .................................................................................................15

3.1. THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA ARMED FORCES (CAF) .....................................................................16

3.1.1. Future CAF Missions and Tasks...............................................................................................16

3.1.2. Military Capabilities .................................................................................................................17

3.1.2.1. Joint Capability and Actions with Partners and Allies.................................................................19

3.1.2.2. Deployability and Mobility...........................................................................................................19

3.1.2.3. Integrated Command and Control System ..................................................................................20

3.1.2.4. Land Force Capabilities ...............................................................................................................20

3.1.2.5. Naval Capabilities ........................................................................................................................22

3.1.2.6. Air Force Capabilities ..................................................................................................................23

3.1.2.7. Training and Education ...............................................................................................................24

3.1.2.8. Logistics Capabilities ...................................................................................................................25

3.1.3. Force Structure........................................................................................................................26

3.2. THE ROLE OF CIVIL DEFENCE .....................................................................................................29

3.3. THE KEY ENABLERS OF DEFENCE CHANGES................................................................................31

3.3.2. Professionalization ..................................................................................................................31

3.3.3. Doctrine..................................................................................................................................31

3.3.4. Interoperability and Standards..................................................................................................31

4. DEFENCE RESOURCES....................................................................................................................33

4.1. HUMAN RESOURCES....................................................................................................................33

4.2. MATERIAL RESOURCES ...............................................................................................................34

4.2.2. Weapons and Military Equipment .............................................................................................34

4.2.3. Facilities and Infrastructure .....................................................................................................36

4.3. FINANCING .................................................................................................................................37

5. DEFENCE MANAGEMENT ...............................................................................................................38

5.1. MINISTRY OF DEFENCE...............................................................................................................38

5.2. LEGAL FRAMEWORK ...................................................................................................................40

6. CONCLUSION ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................4411

7. ANNEXES..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................44337.1. PARTNERSHIP GOALS .................................................................................................................44

7.2. CAF MISSIONS AND TASKS ..........................................................................................................45

7.3. COMBAT FORCE ELEMENTS ........................................................................................................47

SSignificant changes in the European

security environment, especially in wakeof the enlargement of the EuropeanUnion (EU) and the North AtlanticTreaty Organisation (NATO) in 2004,have resulted in strengthening the link-age and interweaving of security anddefence. European countries are facedwith the challenge of directing andadjusting their defence efforts to new cir-cumstances, especially in meeting thedemands of rationalizing their militarypotentials. Many NATO member coun-tries make use of a strategic review as aninstrument for promoting and overseeingdefence reforms.

The Republic of Croatia is deter-mined to respond to the changed condi-tions in its security environment. TheCroatian Ministry of Defence (MoD) hasinitiated a Strategic Defence Review(SDR) aimed at establishing the neces-sary guidance in the further developmentof its defence potential. The SDR processrepresents an in-depth, thorough inven-tory of the defence system, detecting itsstrengths as well as its weaknesses. TheSDR also proposes conceptual and organ-isational changes in developing the mili-tary capabilities needed to meet Croatia’ssecurity requirements. As Croatia isfocused on its accession to the EU andNATO, the SDR also takes into accountexisting resource constraints.

The desire to undertake a strategicreview has been around for quite sometime, being mentioned in several keydefence documents. While working onCroatia’s Membership Action Plan(MAP) and producing Defence Policy2003/04 and Defence Policy 2004/05, theMoD repeatedly indicated its intention ofdeveloping a strategic review. The intentwas to conceptualize and direct defencereform efforts, thereby establishing abasic framework for the development ofthe Croatian Armed Forces Long TermDevelopment Plan (CAF LTDP).

The SDR process began in October2003 with the establishment of aSteering Committee, including an expertworking group responsible for draftingthe final document. The key civilian andmilitary leadership was involved fromthe outset, including representativesfrom the Office of the President, theOffice of the Prime Minister, theMinistry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministryof Finance and other government bodies.Since this was the first time that Croatiaundertook such an effort, regular consul-tations were held with NATO.

Several important decisions resultedfrom the SDR process as consensus wasachieved at the highest political level. Forexample, the President, the PrimeMinister and the President of theParliament agreed on the need to furtherdownsize Croatia’s armed forces, abanon-ing a previously planned 76,000 strong“B” reserve force. Initial SDR findingsalso revoked support for several defenceprojects that did not seem to contributeto the development of required militarycapabilities. Likewise, the SDR enableddefence officials to accelerate efforts toabandon obsolete weapons and militaryequipment.

The SDR process also introduced asustained participation of key defencedecision makers in the discussion ofthose issues that will significantly affectthe development and future posture ofthe defence system. This was absolutelycrucial to the success of the review. TheSDR was also subjected to comprehen-sive expert and public debates. Aftersome minor adjustments were made, theSDR document was presented to thestate’s highest authorities.

The SDR was faced with some com-plex, multidisciplinary issues. Whilesome issues required reports and analysisfrom the various MoD departments andbodies, working groups that includedother governmental agencies were estab-

9

Introduction

lished to deal with the analysis of specificdefence-related issues that requiredinteragency cooperation. Their findingsand recommendations were discussedwithin the framework of the SDR expertgroup and the Steering Committee, aswell as with NATO representatives.Issues deemed crucial for the success ofthe review were sent to the governmentfor verification.

The initial phase of the SDR wascharacterized by in-depth analyses andstudies of the existing tasks and capabili-ties of the CAF. The results provided aconceptual basis for redefining CAF tasksand missions, which eventually led to theidentification of fundamental require-ments in force capabilities and structure.The new tasks and missions are nowclearly and more closely linked toCroatia’s future security concerns and itsinternational obligations. These includeCroatia’s contribution to internationalpeace and collective security within theframework of the United Nations (UN)and its strategic imperative to join theEU and NATO, as well as its commit-ment to regional co-operation. In con-templating future force options, several

significant risk and threat scenarios weretaken into account and an affordabilitycheck of the force structure wasconducted.

One of the most important outcomesof the SDR process is the establishmentof guidance and a basic framework forthe long-term development of the CAF.Once adopted by the CroatianParliament, the CAF LTDP will formallydetermine the direction of CAF develop-ment and the corresponding responsibili-ties of individual elements of the defencesystem. Adoption of the CAF LTDP willenable for a carefully planned andaccountable approach to the managementof defence resources. In a wider sense, itshould also ensure a somewhat more sta-ble mid-term and short-term planningprocess.

This document is the final product ofthe SDR process and it provides the fun-damental guidance for future develop-ment plans, as well as for any necessarychanges to Croatia’s strategic documents.It is also intended to further guidedefence developments during and afterCroatia’s accession to Euro-Atlanticstructures.

10

Introduction

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TThe global security dynamics at theend of the 20th and early 21st centurycaused major changes in the existingsecurity paradigms. Instead of the famil-iar, relatively simple bipolar relationshipsand predictable responses to possiblesecurity challenges, the world is now fac-ing a complex security situation in whichchanges occur more quickly and threats,gaining new asymmetric and trans-national proportions, appear to be moreunpredictable and shrouded in ever-greater uncertainty. Instability stemmingfrom certain countries and regions, ter-rorism, organised crime, proliferation ofweapons of mass destruction (WMD),illegal migration, as well as the problemsof information security, represent threatsthat no country can respond to properlyon an individual basis. Correspondingly,the security and defence architecture isadapting to these new challenges at boththe national and global levels. In order torespond effectively, national security anddefence efforts clearly need to be moreintegrated.

Global and certain regional organisa-tions are consistently attempting todevelop adequate responses to the new,changing circumstances. These interna-tional organisations are often subject tovarious constraints that limit their capac-ity to act decisively and respond timelyand effectively. Likewise, the instrumentsand resources available to deal with thesecomplex situations and crisis are greatlylimited. Under these circumstances,regional organisations such as NATO andthe EU are playing an increasinglygreater role in dealing with crises situa-tions. By strengthening their respectiveroles globally, NATO and the EU are alsowillingly accepting greater responsibili-ties in international security. This is par-ticularly evident in the case of NATO,whose military engagements outside theterritory of its member countries havemade it one of the most important fac-

tors of international security.Consequently, and in order to be moreeffective, NATO is transforming itsstructures and capabilities. The new com-mand structure and formation of rapidresponse forces most evidently illustratethis transformation and adjustment.

The EU is set to play an increasinglygreater role in the whole spectrum of cri-sis management operations, though it isperhaps currently most noticeable inpost-conflict situations of crisis relief andrecovery of affected areas. The Europeancontinent is experiencing a uniquelyremarkable process of unification andsecurity stabilization. Within the frame-work of these efforts, an EU commonforeign and security policy (CFSP) isemerging and gaining in significance, aswell as a European security and defencepolicy (ESDP). In this respect, the EU isaiming to develop the necessary defencecapabilities that will enable it to respondmore effectively to regional and globalchallenges. The EU has made significantheadway in its ESDP efforts. It has estab-lished a Capability DevelopmentMechanism (CDM) and the EuropeanDefence Agency (EDA), adopted a seriesof Headline Goals enshrined within theEuropean Capability Action Plan (ECAP),and is committed to organising elementsof its rapid response forces in terms ofEU Battlegroups.

The full stabilization of SoutheastEurope remains an important EU objec-tive. The EU has assumed responsibilityfor consolidating the stabilization ofSoutheast Europe by replacing NATOforces in Bosnia and Herzegovina withits own forces. Democratic processes inthe countries of Southeast Europe havebeen strengthened, reducing the potentialoutbreak of hostilities to a minimum.Most countries in the region are either inthe process of joining Euro-Atlanticstructures or are already members. Eventhose countries excluded until now have

11

Strategic ContextSECURITY ENVIRONMENT

indicated their intentions of achievingEuro-Atlantic integration, primarily byrequesting membership in NATO’sPartnership for Peace (PfP) program andby signing a Stabilization and Associa-tion Agreement with the EU. As a result,the regional environment is becomingmore stable and secure.

A growingly more stable environ-ment has enabled Croatia to increase itsinternational participation and contributemore to international security. Throughmultilateral efforts and regional co-oper-ation, Croatia is becoming more recog-nized as a “security exporter” ratherthan a “security consumer”. Croatia hasstrong Euro-Atlantic aspirations and in-tends to make even greater contributionsto regional and global security. This willrequire changes in its security anddefence systems, to include the develop-ment of required capabilities that willenable Croatia to meet the challenges ofeffectively contributing to cooperativesecurity and collective defence.

NATIONAL INTERESTS AND OBJECTIVES

Croatia’s national interests are basedon the fundamental values embodied inthe Republic of Croatia Constitution.These translate into security interestsand national objectives outlined in theRepublic of Croatia National SecurityStrategy, adopted by the Parliament in2002.

Vital national security interests arethe sovereignty, independence and terri-torial integrity of the Republic ofCroatia, along with its national identityand fundamental values intact, and theprotection and safety of its citizens andtheir property. Croatia’s importantnational interests include the preserva-tion and development of democracy anddemocratic institutions, the rule of law,economic prosperity and social justice, apeaceful and secure international envi-ronment, international order based on

the principles of justice, adherence tointernational law, political and economicequality, as well as the preservation andprotection of the natural environment.

The most broad national objective isto create the proper conditions for a free,just and stable political, economic andsocial development of Croatian society, incooperation and a spirit of solidarity withother democratic states. Specific securityobjectives include:

the development and implementationof the proper policies, measures, activitiesand institutions effective enough to meetCroatia’s current and future securityconcerns;

the building of favourable regionaland global security surroundingsthrough international security organisa-tions and in co-operation with otherdemocratic states;

the establishment of an economicallywell-off, stable society that will in thelong-term be able to build and sustaineffective security mechanisms and assurefor the necessary resources, and respondto all its security challenges, risks andthreats.

A consistent national and strategicobjective has been to join NATO and theEU. The Programme of the Governmentof the Republic of Croatia for the 2003-2007 Mandate re-emphasizes Croatia’snational objective to achieve full NATOand EU membership. It also outlines aseries of objectives which include:improving Croatia’s international stand-ing and security situation; developingpeace and stability in the region; andcontinuing with social, economic anddefence reforms. Particular emphasis isplaced on increasing the effectiveness ofsecurity and defence mechanisms, includ-ing the armed forces. Croatia’s multire-gional territorial configuration conse-quently produces a variety of geographicchallenges, such as safeguarding its interests in the Adriatic Sea.

12

Strategic ContextNATIONAL INTERESTS AND OBJECTIVES

Croatia’s national interests and objec-tives provide the basis for establishingthe tasks and missions of its armedforces. An assessment of Croatia’s secu-rity threats and risks and its internation-al commitments also contribute to sha-ping the CAF missions, as well as theobligations stemming from Croatia’sexpectation to join NATO and the EU inthe near future. It is likely that on itsway to full Euro-Atlantic integration,Croatia may be required to review itscurrent decisions and priorities, andthereby consider other available options,necessary to enable it to join the Euro-Atlantic community.

THREATS AND RISKS

A threat and risk assessment ofCroatia’s national security represents akey factor in determining the direction ofdevelopments in Croatia’s conceptual andstructural defence posture. The currentassessment of its security environmentindicates that at the moment and in theforeseeable longer term—a direct, con-ventional military threat to Croatia isnot likely—although it cannot be com-pletely ruled out.

The likelihood of a conventional con-flict—in which Croatia’s territory wouldbe part of a larger battlefield or area ofhostilities in the coming years—is verylow. A likely aggressor that could poten-tially threaten Croatia’s security woulddo so with conventional means and is notexpected to possess highly sophisticatedmilitary capabilities. Croatia is located ina region that has experienced armed con-flict and political difficulties in the post-cold war period. Despite a trend of grad-ual stabilization and the presence ofinternational forces in the area, theemergence and spread of instability inthe region is quite possible.

Threats are assuming a new character.In the future, it will be even more diffi-cult to distinguish between military and

non-military components of threats.Croatia may be indirectly affected bycrises in its immediate environment, aswell as by destabilizing consequences ofasymmetric and trans-national threats.

International terrorism is a growing,complex global security challenge.Terrorism has become a distinct securityconcern, which can provide new dimen-sions to other trans-national threats andcan even lead to conventional conflicts. Ina very short time and with an undoubt-edly profound effect, it has been able tocompromise the security of developeddemocratic societies. And by creating asense of insecurity within a targeted pop-ulation, terrorism has thus achieved oneof its primary objectives.

The proliferation of weapons of massdestruction is a major global securityconcern. If unchecked, the spread ofWMD could lead to the emergence ofnew military and terrorist threats. Theavailability of these weapons to techno-logically inferior armed forces of aggres-sive non-democratic regimes, and, evenmore worrisome, to terrorist organisa-tions and other groups, and the possibili-ty of their use, represents a very danger-ous scenario. The spread of WMD is aglobal threat that requires a co-ordinatedresponse not only from the law enforce-ment authorities and/or armed forces ofindividual countries, but also calls for theconcerted use of an assortment of nation-al and international instruments.

Organised criminal activity has had anoticeably destabilizing effect on statesand is also recognized as a significanttrans-national security concern.Moreover, illegal trafficking of drugs,weapons and human beings and othercriminal activities are becoming a keysource for financing terrorist groups.

The growing reliance on developingcommunications and computer technolo-gies also produces new vulnerabilities,which eventually reflect upon the general

13

Strategic ContextTHREATS AND RISKS

stability and security of entire societies.Thus, the development of capabilitiesdesigned to respond to these challengesrepresents an imperative at both thenational and international levels.

Croatia, like all other countries, is alsoexposed to risks associated with naturaland man-made disasters. The serious con-sequences of potential disasters, primarilyin terms of human casualties, materialdamage and the disruption of normalcommerce, transportation, communicationand other activities in the country, call forthe use of defence capabilities to supportcivil authorities in the more seriousnational crisis situations.

The emergence of new threats andrisks correspondingly call for militaryreforms and the development of newcapabilities. The fact that a direct militarythreat to Croatia is highly unlikely allowsfor a comprehensive reform of its armedforces. The perception of a very high prob-ability of facing asymmetric, trans-nation-al threats and having to deal with complexsecurity issues justify the need to developnew, specific and adequate responses. Inparticular, Croatia opts to pool its effortsthrough the collective and cooperativesecurity framework of Euro-Atlanticstructures. It thus has a unique opportuni-ty to gradually reform its defence bydeveloping the necessary capabilities andstructuring its forces to meet futuredemands and effectively confront the newthreats in a common effort.

INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS

Croatia has accepted greater responsi-bilities in contributing to internationalsecurity and is keen on achieving fullEuro-Atlantic integration by joiningNATO and the EU. In that sense, it hastaken on many obligations. As a result, itwill directly affect how future CAF mis-sions and tasks are defined. It alsoincludes commitments to assure thatproper resources are allocated to defence.

The challenge is to plan a well-balancednational budget where defence expendi-tures do not threaten Croatia’s overalleconomic and social development.Internationally, Croatia’s role has beensteadily growing, as it has willinglydecided to contribute to several UnitedNations operations and has taken part inmany regional security initiatives.

Croatia is an active member of theUN and a contributor to many of itsinternational efforts to maintain peaceand security. Croatia has outlined itsintent to continue participating in UNpeace-support operations byway of theUN Stand-by Arrangement, whichincludes commitments to provide mili-tary observers, staff officers and militaryexperts on the UN On-Call List, whilemaintaining an observer status in theUN SHIRBRIG (Stand-by ArrangementHigh Readiness Brigade).

Since joining the Partnership for Peacein May 2000, Croatia’s relationship withNATO has resulted in a substantial effortto improve its defence capabilities andachieve the high standards of the Alliance.In the process of joining NATO throughthe Membership Action Plan and by tak-ing part in many PfP activities, Croatiahas willingly accepted 49 PartnershipGoals (a list of Partnership Goals is pro-vided as an annexe). Croatia is thus set ondeveloping its defence capabilities to becompatible and its forces to be interopera-ble with those of the Alliance, especiallywith regard to the deployment of the CAFin NATO-led operations.

Croatia also expects to join the EU.Membership in the EU will enableCroatia to play an active role within theESDP framework. Concretely, it willresult in contributing forces and capabili-ties to EU crisis management efforts.While currently outside the EU defenceprocesses, Croatia will closely followdevelopments and stand ready to participate when asked to join. Given its

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Strategic ContextINTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS

T

limited resources and taking into accountthe solidarity of the transatlantic rela-tionship, Croatia will most likely planthat the forces and capabilities committedto the EU be the same ones designatedfor NATO-led operations.

The Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is an impor-tant forum for promoting transparency,trust and friendly relations among itsgreat many member countries. The OSCEprovides a unique regional framework ofconfidence and security building measures(CSBM). It enables Croatia, as a signatoryof the many resolutions, declarations andagreements, to actively participate in itsmany diverse activities, initiatives andorganisational bodies.

Croatia’s multi-regional characteristicprovides many valuable opportunities forco-operation with other countries. Croatiais involved in regional initiatives in Cen-tral and Southeast Europe and the Adri-atic Sea area. This includes Central Euro-pean Nations Co-operation (CENCOOP),the Quadrilateral co-operation initiative,US-Adriatic Charter, the Adriatic-Ionian

Initiative, the Southeast Europe DefenceMinisterial (SEDM), and the South-EastEuropean Co-operation Process (SEECP).Regional co-operation also provides a pro-per setting for nations to pool their capa-bilities and resources in tackling commonchallenges. Within the framework of theQuadrilateral Co-operation, Croatia willjoin Hungary, Italy and Slovenia in devel-oping a brigade-sized unit—the Multina-tional Land Force (MLF)—designed forinternational peace-support operations.

A growingly more stable securityenvironment, without the likelihood of atraditional armed conflict, an intensifiedEuro-Atlantic integration process, and awide range of international commit-ments, clearly signal a new set of strate-gic circumstances that call for a re-assessment of Croatia’s defence efforts.Moreover, when the new global securitytrends are taken into account, it is safe toassume that the existing defence systemwill need to transform and undertake aseries of reforms and adjustments inorder to be more effective in meetingfuture challenges.

15

Defence System Adjustments

The existing defence system is for themost part a product of Croatia’s effort todefend its democracy and sovereignty inthe Homeland War (1991-1995). Defence isa national responsibility and consists ofmilitary and civil components.

Croatia’s defence has been based on theconcept of individual self-defence and pri-marily focused on the protection of nation-al territory. This approach is seriouslybrought into question by changes inCroatia’s security environment and theEuro-Atlantic integration process, whichshould soon result in Croatia’s full mem-bership in NATO and the EU. Likewise, it isdifficult for any country to ignore the ben-efits of emerging technologies and concep-tual innovations stemming from what has

been called the revolution in militaryaffairs. A reduced budget has seriouslychallenged the effectiveness of the currentapproach to defence and questioned thevery need to maintain such a defence at allin wake of Croatia’s NATO and EU aspira-tions.

The existing CAF structure has beenoriented towards developing and main-taining territorially-based self-defencecapabilities. A limited budget, inade-quately filled CAF units, high operatingcosts, and poorly maintained weaponsystems and equipment have resulted inweakening Croatia’s defence potential.Furthermore, overall defence capabilitiessimply do not meet the demands offuture tasks and missions.

Evolving changes in the securityenvironment and future collectivedefence obligations imply a need to con-ceptually re-assess defence, make thenecessary readjustments and, over thelong term, develop a defence system thatis more responsive to the new challenges.

The strategic objective of Croatia’sdefence transformation is to improve itscapacity to protect national interests andenable for its full Euro-Atlantic integra-tion. The transition from an individual,territorially-based self-defence concept toone based on a collective notion willrequire structural and proceduralchanges, most likely including legislativeadjustments. A new type of militarystructure will have to be adopted. Civildefence will have to be re-examined andits role and function will be subject to in-depth analysis. Military doctrines andstandards, compatible with those ofNATO, will be developed, as well as arequired level of interoperability.

The success of defence transforma-tion will greatly depend on achievingbroad public support, particularly insecuring adequate resource allocationsfor defence efforts.

THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA ARMEDFORCES (CAF)

The role of the CAF is to provide fornational defence, support Croatia’s for-eign and security policy, and assist civilauthorities in emergency and crisis situa-tions. The CAF missions and tasks areshaped to meet future national defencerequirements as well as its commitmentsstemming from NATO membership.Developing the right force structure andcorresponding military capabilities willbe based on existing and future threats,and will be subject to the constraints ofavailable resources.

Mission and task analysis leads torecognizing the kind of capabilities theCAF ought to possess and the enabling

force elements needed. The future forceelements most necessary are alreadyimbedded in the existing CAF structure.The coming transformation will simplybe focused on striking the right balancebetween the remaining necessary ele-ments with the available resources andcapability requirements.

The currently professional and con-script mix of the CAF will gradually leadto the development of a professionalforce. Compulsory military service isexpected to be provisionally suspended inthe near-term (most likely by the next 5years). Voluntary military service will beintroduced as a basic source of newrecruits for active and ‘contract’ reserveunits. Voluntary military service shallnot exceed 2,000 personnel per year andwill also be open to women.

Future CAF Missions And TasksThe role of the CAF is based on

Constitutional provisions and defencelegislation, and is further elaborated informal strategic documents. The CAFmissions and tasks (See Annexe fordetailed list) are derived from Croatia’sthreat and risk assessment, growinginternational obligations and future com-mitments stemming from NATO and EUaccession. These missions and tasks, listedbelow, will direct the further develop-ment of Croatia’s force structure andmilitary capabilities.

PPrrootteeccttiinngg CCrrooaattiiaa’’ss ssoovveerreeiiggnnttyy aannddtteerrrriittoorriiaall iinntteeggrriittyy,, tthhee ddeeffeennccee ooffCCrrooaattiiaa aanndd iittss aalllliieess

Safeguarding Croatia’s independence,territorial integrity and viability;

Protection of Croatia’s air space;Protection of Croatia’s waters;Intelligence activities;Protocol tasks;Host nation support;Search and rescue;Deterring a potential aggressor and

16

Defence System AdjustmentsTHE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA ARMED FORCES (CAF)

defending Croatia, including invokingArticle 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty;

Defence of NATO Allies.

SSuuppppoorrttiinngg iinntteerrnnaattiioonnaall ccrriissiissrreessppoonnssee ooppeerraattiioonnss

Peace-support operations (includesthe full spectrum of crisis response oper-ations);

Humanitarian operations.

PPrroommoottiinngg ccoonnffiiddeennccee aanndd sseeccuurriittyybbuuiillddiinngg mmeeaassuurreess ((CCSSBBMM))

Defence diplomacy;Regional initiatives;Arms control and development of

confidence and security measures.

PPrroovviiddiinngg aassssiissttaannccee ttoo nnaattiioonnaall cciivviilliinnssttiittuuttiioonnss

Providing assistance to civilianauthorities;

Assisting national services in the pro-tection and rescue of lives and property;

Assisting civil institutions in the fightagainst terrorism, illegal trafficking and theproliferation of WMD;

Supporting civil institutions in other

non-military tasks.These future missions and tasks have

already been adopted by the Republic ofCroatia Government and represent a keystarting point for defining military capa-bilities that still need to be developed.

Croatia’s risk and threat assessmentoutlines four key scenarios for whicheffective response capabilities must bedeveloped.

Military Capabilities

The perception that a direct, conventi-onal military threat to Croatia is highlyunlikely has important implications for exi-sting military capabilities. At the same ti-me, a new spectrum of asymmetric threatsis emerging to which Croatia has yet to res-pond by developing adequate capabilities.

New military capabilities that anablethe CAF to effectively prepare for andsuccessfully take part in a variety of cri-sis response operations are called for. TheCAF are more likely expected to takepart in operations abroad rather than athome. In that sense, the necessarysupport infrastructure will either bestrictly limited or non existent at all.

17


Figu

re 2

: Sce

nario

s/M

issi

ons

and

Task

s/Ri

sks

Likewise, Croatia will most likelyparticipate in operations as part of a larg-er UN, NATO or EU force, or some otherad hoc coalition of forces. This assump-tion rules out the need to develop ormaintain an extensive set of capabilitiesdesigned for a broad spectrum of scenar-ios. Instead, Croatia needs to developwell-balanced, coherent and flexibleforces, capable of effective action in con-cert with other partner countries andallies. CAF units must be trained andequipped to respond to these require-ments.

Membership in the PfP program, andespecially byway of the MAP process,augments Croatia’s capacity to take partin international peace-support opera-tions. Croatia is preparing a selective setof forces designed to take part inNATO/PfP-led operations. These forcesalso represent the foundation on whichfuture force contributions will be madeonce Croatia accedes to NATO.

Future military capabilities will becarefully planned and gradually devel-oped. Important factors to be taken intoaccount include: limited capacity to trainsufficient number of personnel and units;constrained equipment and weapon mod-ernisation potential; and issues of theaffordability of certain capabilities. Indeveloping the necessary capabilities,Croatia expects to consult key Partnersand the North Atlantic Alliance on a reg-ular basis.

The ultimate objective is to achieve,maintain and consistently improve mili-tary capabilities that enable the CAF toexecute their missions effectively andefficiently. The new capabilities mustfully satisfy national defence require-ments and enable the CAF to performother tasks prescribed by theConstitution and set out in the law.Following NATO accession, the CAFmust have the capacity to take part in theAlliance’s collective defence framework.

In defining the necessary militarycapabilities, several basic scenario-relatedassumptions had to be made. CAF capa-bilities were assumed prior to and afterfull NATO integration.

Pending NATO accession, the CAFmust have the capacity to:

conduct a joint operation in defenceof national territory;

conduct an operation in response to anational crisis with forces equivalent to atask-tailored battalion;

take part in international crisesresponse operations with forces equiva-lent to a company (not including individ-ual personnel contributions to ongoinginternational missions).

After NATO accession, the CAF musthave the capacity to:

conduct a joint operation in defenceof national territory, invoking Article 5of the North Atlantic Treaty;

take part in a collective defence oper-ation with pre-designated forces (a rein-forced company until 2009, a battalionafter 2009);

conduct an operation in response to anational crisis with forces equivalent to atask-tailored battalion;

take part in an international crisesresponse operation with forces equivalentto a company

Military capabilities must ensure thetimely deployment of CAF units in theabove mentioned operations. As a result,and depending upon the task at hand,CAF units will have different levels ofreadiness.

High readiness forces must be readyfor deployment within 24 hours in vari-ous types of national operations, andwithin 5 days in various types of inter-national operations if part of NATOResponse Force (NRF) or EUBattlegroups.

Ready forces should reach full combat readiness in 30 days, and areassigned with the task to protect national

18


interests and for tasks within the scopeof the Alliance. Ready forces (except forair space surveillance) will be fullydeployable, equipped and trained foractivities on the entire territory of theRepublic of Croatia. About 40% of theoverall land forces will be equipped andtrained for deployment outside nationalborders. Ready forces will fully consist ofprofessional, active-duty personnel.

Forces with a low level of readinesscan reach their full combat readinesswithin a period of 30 to 90 days. Theyare intended for support, engagementand replacement of ready forces, and con-sist of ‘contract’ reserves and profession-al, active duty personnel.

Forces that require a longer period tomobilize can reach full combat readinesswithin a period of 120 to 180 days. Theseforces are primarily intended for nationaldefence and act as force supplements, andare filled with unassigned reservists.

The Strategic Defence Review doesnot provide a comprehensive list of allmilitary capabilities, but rather high-lights military capabilities which are cru-cial for CAF structuring and develop-ment. These include:

joint capability and actions withPartners and Allies;

deployability and mobility;integrated command and control sys-

tem;land force capabilities;naval capabilities;air force capabilities;training and education system;logistics system.

JJooiinntt CCaappaabbiilliittyy aanndd AAccttiioonnss wwiitthhPPaarrttnneerrss aanndd AAlllliieess

Most of the operations the CAF areexpected to take part in the future will beconducted as joint operations. Thus, thefurther transformation of the CAF willbe based on the development of jointcapabilities. This includes:

the implementation of NATO stan-dards in all aspects CAF tasks and activi-ties;

a single, inter-service command andcontrol system;

the sufficient interoperability ofequipment;

the co-ordination of service andbranch doctrines with a joint doctrine;

the establishment of a single commu-nications information system, designedto integrate service radar systems for airspace and sea surveillance, as well asother communications systems;

the intensification of English andother foreign language training in orderto increase the CAF ability to act withPartners and Allies;

the development of integrated capa-bilities for providing close air support forground and naval operations.

DDeeppllooyyaabbiilliittyy aanndd MMoobbiilliittyyNATO and the EU have established a

framework for developing capabilities itscurrent and future member states seek torealize, aiming to create combined forces.This framework has determined a basicrequirement—member countries need todevelop modern, deployable and mobileforces able to function effectively withina multinational effort and achieve com-mon objectives.

The CAF will be developed as anintegrated force able to provide fornational defence and meet the require-ments of Euro-Atlantic integration. TheCAF will look to maintain 40% of itsland component structured, trained andequipped for deployment (consistentwith the Istanbul conclusions). Up to 8%of its land forces may be assigned to aparticular operation or be designated forfuture NATO operations (one reinforcedcompany with rotation or 700-800-sizecontingent without rotation). If calledupon, the entire professional, active dutycomponent of the CAF will be obligated

19


to participate in international operations.Deployability and mobility of the

armed forces will be achieved by:increasing CAF tactical/strategic air

transport capabilities, as existing aircraftwill be modernised and two new middleand long-distance transport aircrafts willbe procured;

preparing the necessary infrastruc-ture and means necessary for effectivelydeploying forces in an operation;

the procurement of combat and otherarmoured and transport vehicles;

retaining and developing tactical airtransport.

Mobility will be ensured for alldeployable forces immediately after theyhave been declared ready and for the restof the forces by a predefined date.

The mobility and sustainability ofCAF deployment will be provided forindependently or in co-operation withother NATO member countries.

IInntteeggrraatteedd CCoommmmaanndd aanndd CCoonnttrroollSSyysstteemm

An integrated CAF command andcontrol system must ensure for the con-tinued command and control of all CAFelements at home and abroad. It mustensure continuity under normal peace-time and wartime circumstances, as wellas during crises, disasters and otheremergency situations.

A new Operations Command Centrewithin the Joint Staff will facilitate thecommand and control of all CAF unitactivities at home and abroad.

A CAF communications and informa-tion system (CIS) will support commandand control, and should consist of thefollowing key capabilities:

CAF system integration;compatibility with the corresponding

systems of NATO member countries;exchange of information with NATO

member countries;provide support to forces deployed in

international crisis response operations;provide host nation support to forces

of NATO member countries;gather, process and distribute infor-

mation on conditions at sea and in the airto would-be users.

LLaanndd FFoorrccee CCaappaabbiilliittiieessThe Land Forces will represent the

backbone across the four CAF missions.It will be necessary to develop a range ofcombat capabilities, including the capabil-ity to deploy and take part in mobile,offensive operations. Heavy armour isunlikely to be deployed. The emphasisfor deployment will be on light mobileforces that are sustainable and able toprotect themselves. As a result, newacquisitions, such as highly mobile com-bat vehicles (on wheels), will be required.Commitments to deploy forces abroadwill also require the intensification ofadequate training. Along with combatcapabilities, Land Forces will developcapabilities deemed necessary in order totake part in humanitarian operations andprovide support and assistance to nation-al services. When a crisis or emergencysituation exceeds the capacity of respec-tive national services to act effectively,the Land Forces may be expected to pro-tect and rescue people and property andto provide other assistance to civilauthorities.

The capabilities and forces designatedfor NATO operations upon Croatia’saccession to the Alliance (along withthose declared well before accession) willbe based on the units already outlined inthe Partnership Goals. By 2009, theseforces will represent a foundation fordeveloping task-tailored forces intendedfor NATO or EU-led operations.

Combat units will exclusively consistof professionals and ‘contract’ reserves.Reserve units will have an active dutycore element responsible for trainingmilitary personnel and organic units in

20


accordance with the required tasks.Organisation on a corps basis will be

abolished and brigades will represent thelargest operational units of Land Forces.

The Land Forces will consist of twomain units, a motorized brigade and anarmoured-mechanized brigade, both fullyprofessionalized. Battalions within thesebrigades will represent the basic modulefor the formation of task-tailored forces.These battalions will be mobile, deploy-able, equipped and trained as rapid reac-tion forces. Tank battalions will notdevelop capabilities for deployment out-side the national territory.

The brigades will also include all thenecessary combat support units and serv-ices. This will ensure the required capa-bilities of fire power, anti-armoured com-bat, low altitude anti-aircraft defence,NBC defence and protection, providingmobility and counter-mobility, as well asself-sufficient logistic support for theconduct of operations.

A professionalized (guards) motor-ized brigade will include four motorizedinfantry battalions. In an effort toincrease their overall combat power, thebrigades will be gradually equipped withcombat vehicles on wheels. In addition tonational defence tasks, the brigade isexpected to take part in NATO and EU-led operations.

A professionalized (guards)armoured-mechanized brigade willinclude two tank and two mechanizedbattalions with combat support units andservices. While the brigade as a whole isnot intended for NATO operations, itstraining and standards will be adjusted inaccordance with NATO doctrine so as tobe interoperable with Allied forces.

Combat support will be organised asan integral element of professionalbrigades, as well as independent combatsupport units. While certain units will beentirely professionalized, others will bemade up of reserve components. Reserve

units will consist of an active duty coreelement, responsible for assigning per-sonnel and unit training.

Artillery units will provide manoeu-vrable and mid-range fire support underall weather and combat conditions(including NBC). Existing artillery, rock-et launchers and other weapon systemswill be used. In addition to these basiccapabilities, artillery units will graduallyfurther improve their mobility and sus-tainability.

Signal units provide basic and special-ized communication capabilities by estab-lishing and maintaining stationary andmobile signal components. Thus, signalunits may also provide communicationand information support to forcesdeployed abroad (whether in crisisresponse operations or for collectivedefence purposes) and, as host nationsupport, to forces of NATO membercountries while on Croatian territory.They are also expected to provide sup-port to civil institutions in nationalemergency and crisis situations. Theequipment and standard operative proce-dures of signal units will become com-patible with those of the Alliance.Achieving interoperability in this areawill represent one of the highest priori-ties of CAF acquisition and modernisa-tion efforts through 2015.

Anti-aircraft units of the Land Forcesare intended to provide anti-aircraft com-bat capability at low altitudes and will beequipped with existing weapon systems.These units will participate in protectingvital CAF elements and critical infra-structure within an integrated air defencesystem.

Engineering units are intended tosupport sustainability, mobility andcounter-mobility requirements. Limitedde-mining capabilities will be retainedand further developed since a significantportion of Croatia’s territory has yet tobe cleared of left-over mines from the

21


recent Homeland War. Likewise, thiscapability could be useful in internationaloperations. The CAF will continue todevelop military capabilities that can alsosupport designated civil services in searchand rescue efforts in a disaster situationwhere lives and material values are atrisk.

NBC units maintain capabilities forNBC protection of CAF units throughthe organisation and conduct of deconta-mination, as well as gathering, processingand distributing data on possible contam-inants. NBC unit organisation and equip-ment will enable for its use in interna-tional operations and activities that callfor such capabilities.

Considering the growing danger ofterrorist attacks, capabilities designed todetect NBC contaminants and WMDmaterial must be fully developed, as wellas the capacity to rapidly and safely neu-tralize such threats. In the event of a ter-rorist attack, it may be necessary to con-tain and remove the consequences ofNBC related hazards. These capabilitiesmay also be used to assist civil institu-tions in dealing with the dangerous after-effects stemming from industrial acci-dents and technological disasters.

A special operations unit will developcapabilities for executing specific militaryand other important tasks.

A military intelligence unit is intend-ed to provide intelligence support to theCAF and will develop the necessary capa-bilities for the gathering, analysis anddistribution of intelligence information,particularly important for planning andexecuting military operations. In addi-tion, the unit will also provide assistanceto civil institutions whenever it relates toissues of national importance.

Military Police units continue todevelop, in accordance with legal provi-sions, their existing capabilities for con-ducting fundamental military police tasksin Croatia. These units will be organised

under a single command and will providemilitary police support to all segments ofthe CAF. The equipment, training andstandard procedures to be adopted willallow the Military Police to participate ininternational crisis response operations.

Reserve units will be used for nation-al defence purposes, but it will also bepossible to use certain reserve compo-nents in augmenting CAF efforts ininternational operations. The current sizeof the reserve will be further reduced.On the other hand, reserve training willbe intensified in order to increase theireffectiveness. The concept of contractreserves will be gradually introduced.The contract reserves are expected tomake up some 50% of the active dutycomponent by 2010. After the expirationof their contracts, both active duty per-sonnel and contract reserve will be placedon a non-assigned reserve list. The cur-rent obligatory reserve personnel will begradually placed on the non-assignedreserve list.

NNaavvaall CCaappaabbiilliittiieessGiven Croatia’s geographic maritime

characteristics of an extensive coastlineand numerous islands, the Croatian Navyis faced with numerous challenges. TheNavy must look to protect Croatia’snational interests in the Adriatic bydeveloping a balanced set of forces andthe necessary capabilities. These would beaimed at protecting Croatia’s territorialwaters and ecological and fishing zonesof interest. The Navy will also be expect-ed to meet asymmetric threats andassure for free navigation in the AdriaticSea. Likewise, it will undertake searchand rescue tasks, contribute to defencediplomacy efforts, provide host nationsupport to Croatia’s allies and assist civilinstitutions. A separate study to be con-ducted during 2005 will examine the potential of developing future navalcapabilities that could contribute to

22


NATO or EU-led maritime operations.In the short term, naval forces will be

consolidated into two main functionalgroupings.

The first naval grouping will consistof interdiction forces (primarily based onthree fast missile crafts), mobile land-based missile batteries, and mine coun-termeasure forces. An anti submarinecapability will also be retained in thisfunctional grouping. The introduction ofinshore and port mine hunters currentlybeing developed and the establishment ofport mine clearance diving teams will bea priority. This should assure for secureand free navigation channels and aug-ment the CAF’s overall anti-terroristcapabilities.

The second naval grouping will beresponsible for Coast Guard tasks andwill work closely with other nationalagencies and institutions in safeguard-ing Croatia’s sovereignty and assuringfor law enforcement in the Adriaticunder Croatian jurisdiction. The CoastGuard will also conduct appropriatepatrols and monitoring of the fishery-ecological zone, develop capabilities forthe conduct of anti-terrorist activities,counter-smuggling of human beings,goods and WMDs, monitor and controlstate borders at sea, conduct search andrescue, prevent ecological catastrophesand ensure free navigation at sea andprevent illegal fishing and otherunlawful activities. When deemed nec-essary, naval interception forces mayassist the Coast Guard in executingtheir tasks.

Over time, coastguard functions areexpected to dominate naval activities inthe Adriatic Sea. Therefore, defenceefforts will focus on allocating adequateinvestment funds in modernizing andequipping the Croatian Navy to achievethe necessary capabilities.

The CIS unit will integrate the vari-ous elements of sea and air space surveil-

lance, as well as elements for securing ofthe communication system. The Pere-grine radar system will be integrated intothe FPS 117 radars. This should ensurethat comprehensive radar data be avail-able to various national agencies andother non-military users.

The Navy’s logistics support effortswill retain a technical supply capacity, theability to conduct second level mainte-nance, the capacity to service its vesselsand host nation support capabilities.

AAiirr FFoorrccee CCaappaabbiilliittiieessGiven the threat assessment set out

earlier, Croatia does not need to developlarge-scale air defence capabilities.However, given the increased likelihoodof terrorist activity, particularly involvingaircraft, air policing remains a key CAFnational defence obligation. The Air Forcewill be required to support the ope-rational needs of Land Forces to deployand sustain. It is also expected to providethe necessary infrastructure that can beavailable to NATO partners. The Air For-ce will also contribute to the other mili-tary missions by conducting search andrescue operations, as well as providingassistance to civil authorities in the eventof natural disasters and emergencies.

Twelve MIG-21 aircraft were recentlyupgraded for air policing tasks and areexpected to provide the necessary aircapability until 2010 at maximum. In theshort term, operating capabilities will beenhanced by the purchase of aids toimprove reduced visibility in difficultconditions and at night. A replacementweapons platform will be needed in themedium term to assure the continuationof meeting this task. Any replacementaircraft would be obtained only after afull combined operational evaluation andinvestment appraisal (COIA), whichwould include all related activityincluding maintenance of combatreadiness, the ability to sustain fast jet

23


training and the need for appropriatemodern weapons systems. Given the longlead in times associated with aircraftintroduction and the anticipated degrada-tion of the MIG 21 fleet, a full feasibilitystudy (inclusive of the COIA) is beingcommissioned to report by the end of2006.

Special emphasis will be placed on thedevelopment of capabilities for the tacti-cal transport of company-level forceswithin Croatia for anti terrorist opera-tions. This capability will also be avail-able to allow the CAF to participate invarious humanitarian and other opera-tions and tasks in support of civil institu-tions within Croatia and in its immediatesurrounding areas. This task can be metwith existing fixed wing aircraft andtransport helicopters. It is increasinglyimportant that Croatia is capable ofdeploying on operations outside ofnational boundaries as part of widerNATO and EU operations. Air transportwill therefore be augmented by theacquisition of two additional transportaircraft with medium and long rangecapability.

The Air Force will retain its nationalcommitment to operate fire fighting air-craft and in that regard support civilauthorities. This role is backed by sepa-rate funding provisions. Similarly the AirForce will also maintain a limited capabil-ity (2 helicopters) to provide civil medicalevacuation from remote areas.

A new role for the Air Force will beto provide maritime patrol capabilitiesover designated areas of the Adriatic Seaand in support of coastguard operationsdirected at illegal activities in theAdriatic. This will be provided from theexisting fixed-wing fleet or by helicopteras dictated by operational needs.

Fundamental to air operations is ade-quate radar coverage which is now pro-vided by the recently installed modernFPS 117 radars. The picture from these

radars will shortly be ready for con-tributing to the NATO system (ASDE).Similarly the intention remains to inte-grate the FPS 117 with the PeregrineNaval radar to improve low level radarcover in support of coastguard, naval andcivil usage.

TTrraaiinniinngg aanndd EEdduuccaattiioonnService training and doctrine devel-

opment will be the responsibility of theservice commands, while the CroatianMilitary Academy will focus on militaryand civilian educational and the CAF’sscientific research and developmentefforts.

Service commands will provide sys-tematic, high-quality individual and unittraining, consistent with NATO stan-dards, at various CAF training centresand in the units.

The Land Forces Combat TrainingCentre will provide a battalion-levelcommand and unit training capacity, aswell as the capability for command train-ing up to the brigade-level at theSimulation Centre.

The training system will be capableof efficiently and fully satisfying CAFneeds for branch, service and joint train-ing. Apart from the development oftraining programs, the branch commandswill ensure and co-ordinate the use of allresources necessary for training, takinginto account adjustments to meet unitrequirements and tasks.

For the purpose of training logisticspecialities, a logistics training centre isbeing established within the SupportCommand.

Specific military police training willbe conducted within the framework theMilitary Police.The Croatian Military Academy, as acentral body responsible for the develop-ment and conduct of military and civilianeducation in the defence and securityarea, as well as for the development of

24


scientific work to meet CAF needs, willprovide:

the education of officers in co-opera-tion with civil institutions;

the military and functional educationfor officers and NCOs;

the education for military and civilianpersonnel designated to work in multina-tional headquarters;

the integration and development of acivil-military educational system;

the scientific research work require-ments in support of Croatia’s nationalsecurity and defence;

the development of a distance learn-ing system for defence requirements;

a publishing capacity and classic andelectronic libraries.

The Croatian Military Academy willbe primarily organised as an educationalinstitution rather than as a military unit.

LLooggiissttiiccss CCaappaabbiilliittiieessThe logistics system will maintain

and develop capabilities for providingintegrated and continuous logistic sup-port to CAF elements at home andabroad.

Daily logistics and functioning sup-port capabilities will be centralized in allCAF elements, relying as much as possi-ble on the services of civilian organisa-tions in those activities that have nodirect influence on the combat readinessof CAF units and commands.

Capabilities for material resourcemaintenance will be developed within theCAF in a part that is of vital importancefor performing operational tasks of com-mands and units. Technical equipmentmaintenance will be conducted within theCAF to an extent that will enable reach-ing a required level of combat readinessof CAF units. Maintenance will be, to thegreatest extent possible, conducted withina domestic commercial capacity.

The CAF logistics units will developcapabilities for the conduct of logistic

support within the framework of nation-al and collective defence, as well as in cri-sis situations, by ensuring the conduct ofall peacetime and wartime operations,including possible assistance to civilianinstitutions.

Development will continue to focuson achieving capabilities that are interop-erable with the logistics systems ofNATO member countries. For this pur-pose, adequate changes will be made inlogistics training and education. The CAFare developing, adopting and applyingmilitary processes to meet NATOSTANAG norms.

The logistics system will maintainexisting capabilities and continue todevelop new capabilities for ensuringlogistics support to CAF units deployedin international peace operations (up to abattalion-level unit) and for enablingeffective CAF logistics unit support inNATO-led operations.

Logistics support will also continue todevelop capabilities necessary for Croatiato contribute host nation support toNATO and EU forces. Croatia expects tofully develop its host nation supportcapacity by 2009.

In accordance with its defined mis-sions and tasks, the CAF will develop andmaintain capabilities for providing sup-port to civil institutions, in case of natu-ral disasters and technical accidents.Theses include providing accommoda-tion, supplying food and water, providingwater purification, and offering transportcapabilities.

The CAF health care system willmaintain and develop the existing capa-bilities of preventive, primary and dentalhealth care of CAF members. In addition,the health care system will develop spe-cialist and advisory care for CAF mem-bers at military medical centres, but willalso assure specialist care for its person-nel at civilian hospitals. A sub-specializedfield will be developed to meet the needs

25


of aviation and naval medicine.The CAF will also develop the med-

ical support for individuals and unitsdeployed in international operations. Thisincludes medical preparation and immu-nization of military personnel that findthemselves in difficult climates and com-plex health conditions, as well as thepreparation of ROLE-1 modules andROLE-2 level of health care outlined inthe Partnership Goals. Furthermore, theCAF will develop capabilities for the con-duct of veterinary care, medical supplies,medical training and medical care.

The entire spectrum of CAF medicalsupport will be augmented by Croatia’snational health care system and by alliedmedical capacities when deployed inoperations abroad.

Force Structure

The CAF structure is derived fromthe force elements given in Appendix 7.4.The basic modules consist of a battalionfor combat branches, a battalion/compa-ny for combat support branches, and asquadron for the air forces and a divisionfor the navy. Each basic module has beenassigned one primary and one or moresecondary tasks. The number of neces-sary elements for the fulfilment of tasksis one of the factors that define futurecapability requirements.

The future force structure comesfrom the defined elements of combatforces, in compliance with the basicprinciples of effectiveness, modularityand concentration of availableresources. Other force elements (com-mand and control, oversight, education,training, and logistics) supplement thestructure in compliance with the sameprinciples.

The new force structure enables abalanced development of necessary capa-bilities given existing budget constraints.Therefore, in creating the structure,overlapping responsibilities are avoided,

while the administrative segment isreduced to a minimum. The number ofcommand levels is rationalized, with anaim to provide the effectiveness of a sin-gle command and control system, as wellas a clear division of responsibilities andareas of competence.

The size of the future CAF will notexceed 16,000 active duty military per-sonnel, while the number of civilians inCAF structures will not exceed 2,000.The CAF reserve component will numberup to 8,000 strong and consist of contractreserves. These figures result from seek-ing the right balance between budget-driven affordability limitations and theneed to develop effective capabilitiesdesigned to respond to existing andfuture risks and threats.

The target goal of the future size ofthe CAF will be realized by downsizingthe current force through a carefullyplanned approach, the dynamics of reor-ganisation and a transformation to thenew structure.

The main characteristics of the pro-posed CAF structure are:

reduction of the number of units;reduction of the number of command

levels;filling ready forces with profession-

als;filling reserve units with active core;the reorganisation of the reserve

component on the basis of a contractreserve;

a single CAF education system andservice training system;

reduced size of command componentsat all levels;

single stationary logistics systembased on outsourcing;

joint action capability of CAF unitsand modularly organised operation com-mands.

The CAF Long Term DevelopmentPlan will determine the dynamics, waysand framework for gradual, phased

26


defence reform efforts. In the first phase,emphasis will be placed on the reorgani-sation, replenishment, equipping andachieving readiness of the units declaredfor participation in NATO/PfP-led opera-tions, as well as on the reduction oforganisational units and command struc-tures. In the later phases, other CAF ele-ments and units will also be reorganised.

The CAF General Staff (CAF GS) is ajoint armed forces body within the

Ministry of Defence. The General Staff isresponsible for command, preparationand use of the CAF, exercising its author-ity in accordance with decisions made bythe commander-in-chief and the ministerof defence, as outlined in Article 100 ofthe Defence Law. The General Staff isresponsible for CAF activities and forcedeployments, and performs other experttasks requested by the commander-in-chief and the minister of defence.

Operations Command Centre will beorganised within the General Staff, withthe responsibility of facilitating dailycommand and control of operations athome and abroad. For the purpose ofplanning and conducting large-scaleoperations, the General Staff will estab-

lish task-force commands responsible fordirecting the efforts of forces assigned tooperations.

The present CAF GS departmentswill be reorganised in a manner that bet-ter clarifies the distinction between themany responsibilities of operationalplanning and managing military opera-tions from that of other CAF tasks andactivities. In that sense, certain manage-ment functions will be reorganised, while

other new functions will be introduced,such as the establishment of two deputychiefs of the General Staff.

Staff units are subordinate to theGeneral Staff and support the integratedfunctioning of the CAF. The CAFMilitary Police will be reorganised andintegrated into a single unit under onecommand.

Signals Unit will be organised as astaff unit and will provide for a fullyfunctional stationary, network-informa-tion and encryption signal system, aswell as functional radio system. Thisshould secure continuity, rapidity andencryption within the command andreporting system, as well as the strategictransmission of information.

27


Figu

re 3

. Mai

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mm

and

stru

ctur

e of

CAF

CMA

The Honorary Protocol Unit will alsoinclude a CAF orchestra and will performprotocol tasks.

The Electronic Surveillance Servicewill conduct electronic activities at thestrategic level.

The International MilitaryOperations Training Centre will beorganised at the strategic level, with thetask of training individuals and units forparticipation in international operations.

The three CAF branch commandswill be responsible for organising,replenishing, developing, equipping andtraining of command and unit compo-nents for performing specially-tailoredtasks. Units under their command will beat the necessary level of readiness. Theservice commands will also be responsi-ble for professional development of per-sonnel, development of service andbranch doctrine, as well as for the train-ing of active and reserve personnel. Theywill also participate in other tasks asrequired, such as contributing to thedevelopment of joint doctrine.

Professionalized active duty andreserve forces (with an active core ele-ment) will be organised under a LandForces Command. A motorized guardbrigade and an armoured-mechanizedbrigade, as well as special operations unitwill be fully professionalized and willform a major CAF combat element. Onereserve infantry brigade will be organ-ised from the other combat forces underthe Land Forces Command. Combat sup-port will comprise of a fully professional-ized military intelligence unit, an NBCunit and a signal unit, as well as reserveunits (artillery-rocket unit, anti-aircraftunit and engineering unit). Logistic sup-port for combat units and combat sup-port units will be ensured through theorganisation of organic logistic units andthrough the organisation of a logisticsbrigade, consisting mainly of reservists.

Training of Land Force personnel and

units will be the responsibility of theactive core component, organised withinthe reserve branch units. Commandtraining will be conducted at theSimulation Centre, while the CombatTraining Centre will facilitate combattraining.

All Air Force and Air Defence unitswill be fully professionalized and organ-ised into two air force brigades and oneCIS unit (air monitoring and guidanceand signals). Air force brigades includesquadrons of planes and helicopters, aswell as logistics units for servicing andmaintenance of aircraft technical equip-ment.

The air monitoring and guidance unitis responsible for the continuous surveil-lance of Croatia’s air space, with the aimof contributing to protecting the sover-eignty of its air space.

The Air Force and Air DefenceCommand is responsible for integratingthe overall defence and protection ofCroatia’s air space. It will also assure thatits forces work with and support coast-guard efforts in Croatia’s part of theAdriatic.

Individual training for particularservice requirements will be facilitatedby the service training centres.

The Croatian Navy will be a fullyprofessionalized force. Apart from its tra-ditional tasks of safeguarding Croatia’snational interests in the Adriatic, theNavy Command will also prepare unitsfor undertaking coast guard tasks.Establishing the coastguard within theCroatian naval forces is a rational solu-tion and most appropriate approach inconsolidating inter-agency efforts in thisfield. The Navy’s existing capacities(radars, ships, and trained personnel) pro-vide the most comprehensive frameworkfor fully developing an effective Nationalcoastguard capability, particularly fortasks and missions on the open sea. TheNavy already maintains fully trained

28


professionals and has the training capa-bilities for these tasks. In that sense,naval forces will be organised into twoflotillas. Support to the naval forces willbe provided by littoral forces and a CISunit (coastal surveillance and signalsunit). Other service elements will beembedded within these littoral forces andwill be able to provide special support tonaval forces.

Individual training needs of the serv-ice will be conducted at the naval train-ing centre.

In an effort to ensure an economiza-tion during peace-time and more effec-tive support to CAF operations, a systemof logistic and medical support will beintegrated within the Support Command.

Apart from facilitating logistics sup-port and health care, the SupportCommand will also be responsible fortraining of logistics and medical person-nel. Maintenance and improving thequality of life at military facilities will beoutsourced and will be to the greatestextent possible based on commercialassets. Storage facilities will be integratedand rationally consolidated around asmaller number of locations.

Logistics units and elements will beorganised in a manner that assures effec-tive logistics support to forces involvedin an operation. This will be done byenabling individuals, unit elements orspecialized logistic units to be assigned toan operation command.

In transforming the logistics system,new functional components will beorganised within the Support Command.These will include a Centre forMovement Co-ordination and a Centrefor Munitions Control and Maintenance.

Logistics and medical units, intendedas operations support elements, will con-sist of military personnel, while the sta-tionary logistic system will primarily bemade up of civilian personnel.

The Croatian Military Academy is an

organisation responsible to meet the edu-cation requirements of CAF personnel.Military education will be conducted inan integrated manner and within theCAF system, through a system of mili-tary education and in cooperation withcivilian education institutions. TheAcademy will have organisational ele-ments for the education of officers,NCOs and civilians. The Academy willalso facilitate research activities and pub-lish materials of interest to the armedforces.

THE ROLE OF CIVIL DEFENCE

Civil defence is an integral part ofCroatia’s overall defence efforts. A civilcomponent along with its military coun-terpart make-up the fundamental basis ofCroatia’s defence and will continue toaugment a holistic approach to ensurethat adequate capabilities be developed inresponse to a full spectrum of new risksand threats. As new CAF capabilities arebeing shaped to meet non-traditionaltasks, so too, the efforts of civil organisa-tions and institutions must be adapted tothe new realities and be able to provideprotection and rescue capabilities andmust be able to respond effectively in anational emergency or crisis situation.

The primary role of civil defence is toprepare the nation for defence and pro-vide for the non-military defence of thecountry. This role is achieved through asystem of institutions and activities,which include planning, integrating,directing and co-ordinating civilian assetsand efforts deemed important for nation-al defence. Civil defence encompassesnational, local and regional governmentbodies; legal persons responsible fordefence preparations; and protection andrescue agencies and other organisationsresponsible for safeguarding lives andmaterial values.

The non-military efforts of civildefence ensure the functioning of gov-

29

Defence System AdjustmentsTHE ROLE OF CIVIL DEFENCE

ernment bodies, businesses and publicservices in a crisis. In that sense, civildefence is responsible for the protectionof the population and assuring access tovital supplies, and for supporting militarydefence efforts.

The changes to Croatia’s overalldefence system, based on the new strate-gic realities and evolving security cir-cumstances, will be reflected in its civildefence component. Civil defence mustadapt to the changing circumstances andbe able to effectively respond to the newthreats and risks, but it must also evolveinto a modern system supportingCroatia’s NATO and EU integration,where challenges are dealt with in com-mon and collective efforts. The strongnational dimension of civil defencerequires that reforms in this area call forclose co-operation among governmentministries and agencies.

Civil defence reforms have alreadybeen initiated. A special inter-govern-mental group has been established and isassessing the present role of civil defence,with the intent to examine its potentialfuture development. Given the complexnature of civil defence, any significantreforms will surely require strategic con-siderations and will affect existing legalnorms. The role and key functions ofcivil defence will be subject to review,which could impact on day-to-day activi-ties, planning and organisational struc-tures. In any event, the future of civildefence needs to be in conformity withsuch efforts in NATO and EU countries.

Considering the nature of modernrisks and threats, crisis management war-rants special attention. Croatia must havethe capacity and be fully able to dealwith a crisis situation and it must effec-tively respond, both at the national andinternational level. Croatia will develop ahost nation support capability to dealwith national, neighbouring or regionalcrisis which call for international assis-

tance. Support will be available for forcesstationed on Croatia’s territory or intransit to a crisis, and will be based onplanned CAF capabilities and civil capaci-ties and assets. Croatia is committed tocontribute to international peace-supportoperations abroad, especially in thereconstruction of crisis-afflicted areas. Inorder to develop the necessary capabili-ties to undertake these highly complextasks, a systematic approach and closecivil-military co-operation will berequired.

Croatia’s civil defence system mustbe able to effectively respond to the newthreats and risks and adapt to therequirements of collective defence. Inorder to do that, the following needs tobe accomplished.

Civil defence will be reassessed andredefined based on new national securityand defence requirements; existing civildefence legislation will be amended(expanded to encompass emergency andcrisis situations); the civil defence systemwill be reorganised at the national level;civil defence capabilities designed to sup-port Croatia’s international obligationsshould be strengthened,

Organisational adjustments need toreflect any conceptual changes.

An appropriate information systemthat facilitates comprehensive logisticssupport will be developed. This shouldhelp Croatia to consolidate its overallcapacity to deal with national emergen-cies and to effectively manage crisis. Theintention is also to strengthen Croatia’scollective defence potential, crisisresponse efforts and other internationalactivities.

Croatia plans to establish a fully-integrated, national system of civil andcivil-military crisis management by theend of 2009.

Once the new conceptual frameworkof civil defence has been adopted, thecorresponding human, financial and

30

Defence System AdjustmentsTHE ROLE OF CIVIL DEFENCE

other resources will be addressedthrough separately adopted plans.

THE KEY ENABLERS OF DEFENCECHANGES

Professionalization

The growing trend of potential conscriptsthat are increasingly opting to exercisetheir national defence obligation throughcivil rather than military service is a newsource of concern. Furthermore, thelength of military service for conscriptsis not long enough to meet the necessarytraining requirements to handle a grow-ingly complex array of military technicalequipment. Future CAF missions andtasks will be increasingly more demand-ing and modernisation efforts will callfor more technically capable personnel.These and other reasons point to neworganisational requirements, namely, fill-ing the CAF ranks with volunteers.

Considering these requirements andtaking into account the findings of anational study to professionalize thearmed forces, the Strategic DefenceReview proposes a gradual transition to afully professional CAF and the introduc-tion of a reserve component based on a‘contract’ (paid) reserve.

A decision to suspend obligatory mil-itary conscription has strong political,social and economic implications.Important issues of military organisationand other aspects of the defence systemwill have to be addressed, as well as thevarious social concerns that may emerge.A gradual move towards professionalarmed forces will be realized throughcarefully prepared and thoughtfuldefence development plans. In accordancewith a decision to professionalize itsforces, Croatia’s legal provisions dealingwith military obligation will be corre-spondingly adjusted. The recruitment ofnew personnel and reserve readiness willalso be defined.

DoctrineOne of the basic characteristics of a

good organisation is the establishment ofrules and principles governing behaviour.In a military organisation, the adopted ofa doctrine which enables the co-ordinateduse of its capabilities in executing itsmissions and tasks is of key importance.Key doctrine documents are expected tobe developed and adopted by the end of2007. Future CAF doctrines will be inaccordance with NATO doctrines and willincorporate the experiences and valuablelessons from the recent Homeland War.

Future doctrines will enable full CAFinteroperability with forces of NATOmember countries in terms of tactics,technical equipment and standard proce-dures. Regarding independent CAFefforts, the adopted doctrines will enablefor service capability integration andjoint action.

The types of doctrines include jointdoctrine, service and specialization doc-trine, and functional area doctrines.Doctrine will also direct education andtraining efforts towards creating plansand programs that will be focused on theCAF missions and tasks.

Along with a full series of doctrinaldocuments, this effort will lead toencompassing a singular list of all activi-ties derived from the basic missions andtasks, as well as a singular glossary ofmilitary terms. In this manner, keydefence terminology will be uniquelydefined and will thus provide the basisfor clearer national and internationalcommunication.

Interoperability And Standards

The ability to work effectively withits allies is one of the key preconditionsfor the CAF to be able to take part in acollective defence system. Variouselements of Croatia’s defence system,including structures, procedures andtechnical means, need to be interoperablewith those of NATO and the EU.

31

Defence System AdjustmentsTHE KEY ENABLERS OF DEFENCE CHANGES

Interoperability requires adopting andapplying standards compatible with thoseof NATO and the EU.

The current level of CAF interoper-ability with its partners and future alliesneeds to be improved. In that sense,challenges include outdated weaponsand military equipment, doctrinal short-falls and lack of proper standards thatare in accordance with NATOSTANAGs. In order to increase its inter-operability level, Croatia is committedto intensify the planned realization ofits Partnership Goals, as outlined in thePARP and MAP process. Fulfilling thePartnership Goals requires the adoptionand implementation of extensive NATOnorms by the Ministry of Defence andthe CAF, as well as by various otherbodies at the national level. A systematicprocess of standardization in the min-istry and armed forces was defined andorganised in 2003, and is fully focusedon NATO norms. This created the nec-essary framework for the systematicadoption and implementation of normsthat Croatia’s defence system will be

based upon.Budget constraints and a time factor

that limits the adoption and implementa-tion of key NATO norms directly affectthe progress of Croatia’s overall interop-erability. Due to budget constraints, col-lective defence interoperability require-ments will be prioritized and realized inthe shortest possible time.

The interoperability of defence ele-ments that plan to be engaged in interna-tional operations in the near future is akey priority. After that, the interoperabil-ity of ready forces is the next priorityissue, as well as the eventual interoper-ability of the entire defence system. Inthis context, operational norms thatdefine tactics, techniques and procedureshave the highest priority, while materialand administrative norms have a lowerdegree of priority at this time. Theimplementation of all norms called for inthe Partnership Goals is based on a care-fully planned approach. The requiredlevel of force interoperability within theframework of the first priority will beachieved by the end of 2009.

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Defence System AdjustmentsTHE KEY ENABLERS OF DEFENCE CHANGES

TThe current personnel structure pri-

marily resulted from the establishmentof the CAF during a wartime situationand the lack of a systematic approach topersonnel management. Today, the per-sonnel structure is characterized by aseries of shortfalls that bring into ques-tion the effectiveness of the entiredefence system. These include an “agingforce”, where the average age of person-nel is inadequate, a relatively excessnumber of management personnel, lackof qualified personnel and inadequatepersonnel placement. The lack of a con-sistent human resource management(HRM) policy is one of the main reasonsfor not fully exploiting the humanresource potential and for experiencingdifficulties in meeting the demands ofdefence tasks.

A more favourable personnel struc-ture will be achieved through plannedrecruiting and separation of personnel,within a consistent career managementframework. Effective personnel man-agement implies that functions areperformed by the correspondinglymost competent individuals. In order toachieve this, a clear and fully definedHRM policy will provide the properguidance for all personnel relatedissues in an effective and economicmanner.

The proper implementation of anHRM policy will ensure the following:

effective recruiting and selection ofpersonnel;

effective personnel turnover throughplanned hiring and separation;

transparency and equal opportunityin professional development;

objective evaluations and rewardsthat are also a motivating factor, as wellas the stimulation of ‘on the job’ success;

rotations and career advancement;a proper quality of life and family

care;a personnel age structure consistent

with professional development standards;an effective personnel structure cor-

responding to the demands of CAF mis-sions and tasks, as well as budget con-straints;

a degree of flexibility based on serv-ice requirements;

effective preparation of personnel forseparation.

The efforts that stem from the HRMpolicy will be carefully planned and willaddress four main HRM functions:recruitment and selection, professionaldevelopment, personnel support and aseparation process.

The recruitment of individuals fromthe job market will focus on obtainingquality personnel that will be able tomeet the selective qualifications anddemanding requirements of a career inthe defence establishment.

A professional development processbased on prudent management andcareer development will ensure that per-sonnel with the proper experience,knowledge and skills are retained.Promotions will be based on principles ofequal opportunity and open competition.Career development will be planned inaccordance with organisational require-ments and budget constraints. The careermanagement approach will also includecivilian personnel.

The personnel evaluation procedurewill be further developed based onnational experiences and the standards ofNATO member countries. It will repre-sent an official basis for indicating indi-vidual progress in their professionaldevelopment. The necessary changes inthe evaluation process of civilians willresult in adopting new regulations at thenational level.

The use of Croatia’s existing civilianeducational institutions will enable for anintegrated civil-military education and

allow CAF members to gain formaldegrees, certificates and licenses.

33

Defence ResourcesHUMAN RESOURCES

Qualifications gained through a pro-gram of military education, at home orabroad within the framework of interna-tional military co-operation, will be dulyrecognized. Given the growing require-ments for participation in multinationalstaffs and other international settings,special attention will be paid to evaluat-ing foreign language capabilities.

The education of civilian personnelwill be based on guidance outlined in anational strategy for the professionaldevelopment of civil servants. In addi-tion, Croatia’s international defence part-ners provide various education opportu-nities to civilian as well as military per-sonnel, which will be used to the greatestextent possible.

The personnel support program isprimarily focused on the needs of indi-viduals. Personnel support foremostincludes health care and the quality oflife. However, it also represents therecognition that individual efforts even-tually contribute to the success of anorganisation. Addressing quality of lifeissues also includes family support pro-grams and housing. Specific and trans-parent plans designed to deal with hous-ing issues, a central feature of personnelsupport, will represent a key factor formotivating defence personnel.

The planned separation of personnelis an important prerequisite and turnoverfactor for getting the right personnelstructure and enabling for the normalprofessional development of youngerpersonnel. A well co-ordinated recruitingand separation process will ensure thatthe defence system is consistently reju-venated with new personnel and will bein a position to continually raise thequality of its human resources. The prop-er separation of personnel will directlyaffect the success of the recruitmentprocess, creating a recognizable image ofthe military as a good employer and onethat cares for its people.

Human resource management will bean integrated function. Organisationalroles and responsibilities on individualaspects of military and civilian personnelmanagement will be clearly defined. Itwill also include a unique informationsupport capacity and a system of report-ing on personnel readiness, consistentwith NATO standards.

The classification of military speciali-ties will be consistent with NATO stan-dards, while at the same time striving tomaintain compatibility with nationaltrade and vocation classifications.

Annual recruiting, professional devel-opment, posting and separation plans willbe adopted on the basis of a Long-RangeHuman Resource Management Plan.This plan will provide the key numericalindicators necessary to define the targetpersonnel structure, which needs to beachieved and sustained through the endof the planning period.

MATERIAL RESOURCES

Weapons and Military Equipment

Developing the necessary militarycapabilities outlined in the defence reviewwill greatly depend on Croatia’s capacityto supply its forces with the proper tech-nical means, especially with modernweapon systems and military equipment.The effort to procure and maintain thesetechnical means will be a most challeng-ing task for the material resources man-agement system, which will be based onprinciples of efficiency and affordability.

CAF weapons and military equipmentconsists of an assortment of combat sys-tems, mainly from Eastern Europe, theformer Yugoslavia and some Westerncountries. A small, limited amount hasbeen produced in Croatia. The variety ofdifferent types and models of a particularclass of weapon is a characteristic of muchof the current weapons and equipment.

A significant portion of the

34

Defence ResourcesMATERIAL RESOURCES

equipment has become technologicallyoutdated and is at the end of its life cycle.As a result, the use and maintenance ofsuch weapons and equipment is verydemanding, and further complicatesefforts to achieve interoperability andcompatibility with NATO.

The process of discarding obsoleteweapons and military equipment hasbeen going on for several years and hassignificantly eased the burden of theCAF logistics system, particularly interms of operational costs. With theadoption of the future force structure,this process will enter its final phase, andwill result in freeing valuable financialresources which can be used to enhanceCAF material maintenance to higher lev-els, in accordance with the minimal stan-dards for maintenance. The associatedremoval and disposal costs will be takeninto account. The removal and disposal ofammunition poses particular difficultiesand requires a systematic, plannedapproach. An acceptable, effective andaffordable solution could be the estab-lishment of an ammunition disposal sitein Croatia, which would be economicallyjustified and represent a quick, logicallong-term solution to this problem.

In order to achieve the previouslyoutlined capabilities, significant resourceswill be allocated to the acquisition of newweapons systems and military equip-ment, as well as to the modernisation ofexisting ones. The following prioritieswill guide these efforts:

meeting the interoperability require-ments of those units that are engaged orplan to be engaged in international oper-ations, primarily communications equip-ment and mobile communication sys-tems, as well as the means to protect theforce;

command, control and communica-tions systems at all levels, as well as sim-ulation training and education systems;

replacement of obsolete combat sys-

tems with modern ones based on the pri-orities of the development of future CAFcapabilities.

While programs to equip and mod-ernize the CAF need to meet stringentquality criteria, an effort will be made touse domestic development and produc-tion potentials whenever possible andeconomically feasible. When weaponsand equipment requirements call forinternational acquisitions, priority will begiven to those foreign contractors thatprovide joint venture opportunities andoffset programs. Effectiveness andaffordability represent the principle cri-teria guiding acquisition and modernisa-tion decisions. The process of an acquisi-tion will be fully evaluated along with itsaccompanying elements and during itsentire life span. Where appropriate andin an attempt to rationalize expenditures,readily available commercial options willbe used.

Developing interoperable forces is aparticularly demanding process. Itrequires the CAF to adopt and put intopractice a series of NATO standards(STANAGs). For this purpose, an all-encompassing, comprehensive system fordeveloping and adopting these standardshas been established, consistent withNATO standardization principles.

Croatia has begun to establish theNATO codification system, aiming toensure a logistics interoperability withNATO forces. Given the extent and com-plexity of this challenge, and based onthe experiences of the new NATO mem-bers, Croatia expects to complete the cod-ification process in the next seven to tenyears.

The material resource managementsystem will consist of three main organi-sational structures:

an organisation responsible for estab-lishing the business policy, defining theprocedural and organisational frame-works in the material resource

35


management system, developing plansand exercising oversight;

an organisation responsible for theoperational tasks in equipping, acquisi-tion, construction and high level mainte-nance;

a CAF logistics system responsiblefor the operational support tasks aimedat maintaining existing armed forcescapabilities.

During work on the CAF Long TermDevelopment Plan, an Equipping andModernisation Plan will be developed. Itsaim will be to outline the major equip-ping and modernisation projects neces-sary to achieve the CAF capabilityrequirements by the year 2015. Thisincludes the possibility of redefining cer-tain capability objectives in accordancewith budgetary constraints and the real-istic priorities of the entire defence sys-tem.

Facilities and Infrastructure

The CAF make use of and maintain alarge number of military buildings, bases,infrastructure and other installations.The maintenance costs of these sitesalone represent a significant burden onthe available military resources. Whetherin use or not, military installations usu-ally need to be guarded and the utilitiesand other maintenance bills have to bepaid.

Defence reforms are also directed atthis complex of military infrastructure.The intent is to reduce the number ofsites, rationalize their use, and integrateand modernize the remaining elements.A distinction will be made between mili-tary sites that are considered prospectivepieces of CAF real estate in the long-term and those sites that the CAF plansto abandon during the relocation of itsunits. Those military sites to be retainedwill also be modernised in an attempt toimprove the quality of life and workingconditions of CAF units.

The release of military installationswill free critical human and financialresources. In turn, these resources will,wherever possible, be used to modernizeretained installations and support per-sonnel discharge programs. This hasalready been foreseen in a program ofbase conversions and adaptations of non-prospective military installations, which,after government approval, is expected toresult in the possible sale, leasing orrenting of certain military installations.

The CAF Long Term DevelopmentPlan will define the objectives anddynamics of the future development ofmilitary installations and infrastructure,where the following key criteria will berespected.

Prospective principle - the identifica-tion of bases deemed prospective, inwhich buildings and infrastructure willbe further developed to satisfy highly-setliving and working standards of militarypersonnel and units, and the abandon-ment of military sites that are in anunsatisfactory condition and deemed oldand obsolete regardless of the type ofinstallation.

A planned approach - the develop-ment of existing buildings and infra-structure in accordance with the opera-tional requirements of CAF relocationefforts.

Consolidation - the grouping of stor-age facilities by augmenting existingcapacities at retained locations (strategicreserves at a several locations, opera-tional and tactical reserves in accordancewith the future operative placement ofready forces), consolidation of militarysites of all types and for all purposes.

Rationalization - standardization andclassification of all military sites, the con-struction and maintenance of militaryinstallations in a simple and affordablemanner, the rationalization of energyconsumption.

Mobility - the ability to move

36


buildings and other portable militaryinstallations.

Flexibility - the ability to make adap-tations to buildings and installations, thecapacity to possibly expand and modern-ize sites in accordance with futurerequirements and NATO standards (hostnation support, training camps),

Economic, demographic and ecologi-cal factors and the interests of society asa whole.

FINANCING

One of the starting points of thisstrategic review was to create a forcestructure that will not only meet thecapability requirements, but would alsoresult in a well-balanced budget struc-ture. The intent was to allocate 50% ofthe budget for personnel expenses, 30%for operational costs, and 20% forequipping, modernisation and otherexpenses.

Calculations based on reasonable pro-jections of future defence expendituresindicate that the proposed force structurewill be able to maintain the necessarycapabilities within the relative bounds ofthis preferred budget structure.

However, the dynamics of achievingthe required capabilities will depend onCroatia’s ability to fund its defencereforms in a manner which exceeds theprojected 1.84% to 1.87% of the GDP.This is particularly important in thecoming mid-term period, when most of

the proposed reform efforts are expectedto take place. Such calculations resultfrom the need to achieve an acceptablelevel of interoperability and to replaceobsolete, outdated combat systems andother equipment necessary for develop-ing the required capabilities, based on thethreat and risk assessment, as well as onCroatia’s future obligations as a memberof NATO.

Given Croatia’s economic and politi-cal circumstances, it is difficult and per-haps unrealistic to suggest that defencebudget allocations would exceed 2% ofthe GDP. In fact, the necessary equippingand modernisation target period of theCAF can be extended beyond 2015.Furthermore, significant resources formodernisation can come from the sale ofmilitary real estate and from other agen-cies that may have a special interest inthe development of CAF capabilities(such as users of radar surveillance dataover Croatia).

There are many fiscal options avail-able to support effective defence reformsand the Croatian Government is not lim-ited to simply increasing defence budgetexpenditures. A decision to undertakedefence reforms implies commitments ofsupport from other national institutionsand agencies. The success of Croatia’sdefence reform efforts directly depends onstrong political support from the nationalleadership and its corresponding commit-ment to provide adequate resources.

37

Defence ResourcesFINANCING

MManagement is an organisational

function encompassing planning, organ-ising, directing and control of the defencesystem. At the highest level of manage-ment, the Croatian Constitution and theDefence Law provide the legal frame-work of responsibilities and relationshipsof executive and legislative authoritieswith regard to defence matters. Thisframework also provides the basic mech-anisms for assuring democratic controlover the armed forces. The parliamentaryCommittee on Domestic Policy andNational Security is a good example. TheMinistry of Defence, which also includesthe CAF General Staff, is the key execu-tive body which integrates and managesCroatia’s national defence efforts.

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

The role of the Ministry of Defenceis to ensure a co-ordinated developmentof the defence system and use of defenceresources, as well as the realization ofdefence objectives. In addition, the estab-lishment and strengthening of a positiveesprit de corps is of utmost importance,as is the development of an organisation-al culture based on a built-set of valueswith the following main characteristics:professionalism, responsibility, accounta-bility, loyalty, ownership, initiative,expertise and contribution. The Ministryof Defence consists of an oversizedadministration where the responsibilitiesare often divided and not clearly visible.This has a negative impact on the effec-tiveness of the entire organisation andposes serious challenges for the efficientuse of human and other availableresources.

The Ministry of Defence needs to bereorganised. Reform efforts should lookto facilitate more effective defence man-agement (planning, organising, directingand control) in the following core func-tional areas:

international defence co-operation,

interagency co-operation and civil-military crisis planning,

human resource management,material resource management (equip-

ping, modernisation and acquisition),financial resource management (cen-

tral financing),intelligence-security activities.In addition, the Ministry of Defence

also consists of an administrative capaci-ty and carries out protocol and publicrelations activities.

The Defence Ministry will focusmuch of its future reform efforts ondownsizing the CAF and increasing itsorganisation effectiveness. Modern man-agement methods and high standardswill be adopted and should characterizefuture processes in the key functionalareas.

With an aim to achieve effectivenessin management, components of the man-agement function will have an organisa-tional body responsible for its co-ordi-nated functioning through all functionalareas of the Ministry of Defence and theCAF (planning, organising and control).

Defence Policy will be formulated onthe basis of Croatia’s foreign and securi-ty policy, and will lead result in explicitguidance for the defence planningprocess. The Defence Policy and PlanningDepartment will be responsible for thisprocess and will ensure an integratedapproach that includes the participationof all the relevant organisational bodiestasked with executing policies and for-mally adopted defence plans. The defenceplanning process needs to be more sim-plified and centralized, yet compatiblewith NATO planning procedures.Defence planning will be re-evaluated bythe middle of 2006.

Organising involves the normativeset up of an institution, designing itsstructure, improving its processes and co-ordinating its activities. The Ministry ofDefence Secretariat is responsible for this

38

Defence ManagementMINISTRY OF DEFENCE

function. When considering new struc-tures and processes, modern managementmethods and techniques that look toimprove organisational effectiveness willbe taken into account. Along with theabove mentioned tasks, the Secretariatwill also be responsible for interdepart-mental processes, particularly integrativetasks, and administrative activities.

Directing encompasses organisationalguidance and decision making, being natu-rally the respective responsibility of organ-isational authorities at all levels. Makingdecisions on key defence issues will bebased on a precise set of procedures, inorder to ensure the prudent use ofresources, transparency and clear responsi-bilities in the various functional areas.

Control must ensure for the over-sight and evaluation of the implementa-tion of adopted policies and plans, as wellas the legality, effectiveness and rational-ization of Ministry of Defence and CAFactivities. The Ministry of Defence willprovide for organisational oversight andan inspectorate function. Organisationalcontrol is the responsibility of authorizedleaders at all levels. Inspections are theresponsibility of the DefenceInspectorate, which will assure for thecomprehensive control of the defencesystem. The Ministry of Defence alsoplans to establish an internal auditor.

International defence co-operation isa growingly important factor in promot-ing defence objectives and Croatia’s for-eign and security policy. Internationalactivities have significantly intensifiedand gradually increased in magnitude,resulting in the need to correspondinglyallocate adequate resources. In order touse these resources efficiently, interna-tional efforts need to be clearly linked toparticular objectives and priorities. Thus,international defence co-operation mustbe and an integral part of the defencepolicy and planning process.Management responsibilities and rela-

tionships need to be clear among themany organisational elements in theMinistry of Defence and the CAF. Anyorganisational changes will need to focuson the following international efforts:

co-operation with NATO and itsmember countries,

Croatia’s participation in theEuropean Security and Defence Policy,

defence and security co-operationwithin the United Nations framework,

regional defence co-operation andparticipation regional security initiatives,

security co-operation within theOSCE framework,

defence and security co-operationwith other countries.

Modern security challenges requirean effects-based approach, implying anall-inclusive, integrated effort to utilizeall the available national means andinstruments to achieve a desired end-state. In any given operation, it impliesthe proper definition of concrete objec-tives and unequivocally calls for strongerinter-agency co-operation. The Ministryof Defence takes part in numerous inter-governmental efforts, working closelywith other agencies and ministries direct-ly and within the framework of formaland ad hoc inter-agency working groups.Current inter-agency co-operation needsto be raised to a higher level, whichshould assure that all efforts andresource allocations are streamlined tomeet a commonly desired outcome. Suchefforts are absolutely crucial in dealingwith complex security issues such asinternational terrorism. The Ministry ofDefence will particularly support suchinter-agency initiatives in meetingCroatia’s Partnership Goals (outlined inthe PARP and MAP), matters dealingwith the coast guard and the establish-ment of an emergency and crisis man-agement system.

The Ministry of Defence intelligenceand security efforts, an integral part of

39

Defence ManagementMINISTRY OF DEFENCE

the national security and intelligencesystem, will continue to supportCroatia’s national and internationalneeds and be further developed in har-mony to meet NATO requirements.

An effective intelligence process willenable for the proper distribution ofintelligence products to key decisionmaking authorities, which should facili-tate timely policy formulation and a sub-sequent response to dynamic changes inCroatia’s security environment anddeveloping threats.

Croatia’s relationship with NATO(and the EU) will be enhanced by rein-forcing its intelligence and securitydimension. This will result in strength-ening Croatia’s capacity to provide Alliedforce protection and intelligence support,as well as to CAF elements taking part ininternational operations.

The Ministry of Defence informationsystem will ensure a proper and secureenvironment for normal communica-tions, transactions and informationexchange. It should also provide for inte-grated interactions with strong organisa-tional and administrative support. Once anew system has been adopted it willrequire some adjustments to existingregulations and perhaps even the adop-tion of new procedures.

A more proactive approach to publicrelations on defence matters is an impor-tant factor in gaining support for reformefforts and improving the image of theCAF. Elected officials, government execu-tives, and the general population, as wellas Croatia’s international partners, need tobe well informed on defence efforts andkey military issues. In that sense, themedia plays a particularly important role,as do non-governmental organisationsand academic experts. Well informed deci-sion makers and defence officials andemployees at all levels that understandthe need to make necessary changes cancontribute even more to assuring defence

reform success.The Ministry of Defence organisation-

al structure is expected to change in 2006.The organisational structure will reflectdownsizing and other changes in thearmed forces, as a relatively smaller, moremodestly sized mix of civil servants andmilitary personnel will manage Croatia’sdefence system in a cost-effective manner.The future structure should be more sim-plified, differentiate between policy for-mulation and execution, avoid redundancyand duplication of efforts, and decrease thenumber of organisational linkages withinthe Ministry and on an inter-agency basis.

LEGAL FRAMEWORK

Defence is based on a national frame-work of jurisprudence and is consistentwith Croatia’s obligations under interna-tional law. The Croatian Constitution anda set of defence laws provide a functionalbasis for the defence system, includingthe Defence Law, the Law on Service inthe CAF, the Law on Participation inInternational Peace-Support Operationsand several other legal acts that deal withvarious defence issues.

As Croatia looks to transition from apurely territorial, individually-based self-defence concept and move towards a col-lective defence effort, certain nationallegal constraints may need to be amend-ed. This includes legal provisions thatrefer to:

legal authority in the defence system,the national military obligation,personnel management,the role of Croatia’s armed forces

abroad,allied forces deployed on or transiting

Croatia’s territory.The legal framework of the defence

system will be adjusted to comply withany future conceptual defence changes,which will continue to respect principlesof transparency and the democratic con-trol of the armed forces.

40

Defence ManagementLEGAL FRAMEWORK

CCroatia is conducting a strategic

defence review for the first time. TheSDR represents a fundamental instru-ment of current defence reform effortsand mechanism to meet the require-ments of NATO membership. It was notthe intention of the SDR to tackle alldefence-related and armed forces reformissues, but rather to attempt to addressthe most crucial questions where someanswers could be provided.

The objective of the SDR was todirect reform efforts by focusing on keyaspects of the defence system and theCAF. Croatia feels that the most effectiveway to deal with modern security chal-lenges is through the collective effortsand co-operative security framework ofEuro-Atlantic solidarity. The ongoingtransformation of NATO and the EU, aswell as any potential strategic changes inthe environment, will require Croatia tofurther reassess its reforms and makeother necessary adjustments in thefuture.

The SDR has emphasized the need toconceptually adapt to the requirementsof collective defence, inherent inCroatia’s bid to join NATO. Guidanceprovided in this document will be incor-porated in Ministry of Defence and CAFdevelopment plans and will directlyaffect key reform decisions that still needto be made in the future.

Croatia’s SDR is much more than aformal document. It was also a criticaland necessary process that involved theclose co-operation of several key nationalinstitutions, including the President, thePrime Minister and the Government, theMinistry of Defence and the armedforces, the Ministry of Foreign Affairsand the Ministry of Finance. Thus, con-sensus on much needed defence reformswas achieved at the highest politicallevel. Furthermore, the media, academicexperts, opposition parties and the gener-al public were provided with an opportu-

nity to contribute any comments andsuggestions. An open public debate wasalso organised.

A risk and threat assessment indicat-ed that changes be considered in twoareas—armed forces reform and develop-ment of new capabilities. The unlikeli-hood that Croatia will face a convention-al military threat opens the possibilityfor conducting comprehensive armedforces reforms. However, chances are thatCroatia will probably face complex,asymmetric challenges and would thusneed to respond adequately. The co-oper-ative security framework of Euro-Atlantic solidarity provides the mosteffective collective capacity to respondproperly to these threats.

Croatia’s strategic national objectiveis to join NATO and the EU. Inapproaching Euro-Atlantic integrations,Croatia has inherited numerous commit-ments and obligations, which significant-ly affect the future CAF missions andtasks, overall defence concepts, structuresand processes, and the resources allocatedto defence. At the same time, Croatia hasto balance its economic, social and othernational efforts to promote the well-being of the country and its citizens.

Along with the many benefits ofEuro-Atlantic integration, primarilyNATO’s collective defence capacity,Croatia must also be ready to accept theresponsibilities of membership. A balancewill have to be struck where capabilitiesthat satisfy both national defencerequirements and alliance commitmentswill be developed.

NATO accession provides an unparal-leled opportunity to deal with Croatia’ssecurity vulnerabilities and risks throughcommon efforts. The alternative to join-ing NATO would require accepting agreater degree of risk and call for devel-oping a wider spectrum of capabilities,implying correspondingly a need toincrease defence spending in the future.

41

Conclusion

This in turn would cause a seriousburden on the economy and would hin-der Croatia’s development.

The objectives for the first mid-termperiod (2005 - 2009) include: the devel-opment and adoption of a new defenceand military strategy; the organisationalrestructuring of the Ministry of Defenceand the CAF; the adoption of a new civildefence concept; the development andadoption of defence development plans;the achievement of the targeted Ministryof Defence and CAF overall size; devel-oping capabilities and interoperabilityrequirements of forces declared forNATO operations; the adoption of doc-

trines; undertaking a Navy and Air Forcecombat capability study; establishing aproper personnel management system;the long term stabilization of the defencebudget; legal adjustments to meet futuremembership requirements in NATO andthe EU; and the establishment of aMinistry of Defence information system.

The objectives for the second mid-term period (2009 - 2015) include: thefull interoperability of ready forces; thegradual development of all targeteddefence capabilities; the targeted person-nel structure of the CAF; the consolida-tion of military sites and facilities; andthe targeted budget structure.

42

Conclusion

43

AnnexesPARTNERSHIP GOALS

7.1. PARTNERSHIP GOALSNNuummbbeerr TTiittllee RReemmaarrkkss

GGEENNEERRAALL

G 0028 REVIEW OF FORCE STRUCTURES MAPG 0050 LEGAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION IN COLLECTIVE DEFENCE MAPG 0355 LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS MAPG 0360 NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR SECURITY COOPERATION WITH NATO MAPG 0431 METEOROLOGICAL AND OCEANOGRAPHIC (METOC) PERSONNELG 2701 COMMAND AND CONTROL (C2) COMMON HEADQUARTERS (HQ) ORGANISATION MAPG 2702 CJTF HQ AUGMENTATIONG 2781 MESSAGE SYSTEMS UPGRADE MAPG 2782 STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION SYSTEM MAPG 2786 FREQUENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCIES MAPG 2790 SATCOM-BASED PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS MAPG 2865 HQs AND OPERATION CENTRES INFORMATION SYSTEM (IS) SERVICES MAPG 3783 CIMIC SPECIALIST TEAMSG 4001 LOGISTICS LIAISON PERSONNELG 4050 ALLIED DEPLOYMENT AND MOVEMENT SYSTEM (ADAMS)G 4051 ADP LINK FOR LOGISTICS REPORTINGG 4055 NATO CODIFICATION SYSTEM MAPG 4153 RECEPTION, STAGING, ONWARD MOVEMENT AND INTEGRATION (RSOI) MAPG 4174 STRATEGIC MOVEMENT OF NATIONAL FORCESG 4244 MEDICAL SUPPORT MAP G 4250 SINGLE FUEL CONCEPTG 4251 TACTICAL FUEL HANDLING EQUIPMENTG 4255 HOST NATION SUPPORT (HNS) MAP G 4350 ANTHRAX VACCINE STOCKSG 4351 SMALLPOX VACCINE STOCKSG 4490 NBC PROTECTION MAP

LLAANNDD

L 0001 LAND OPERATIONS AND TRAINING MAP L 0035 COMBAT UNIT CONTRIBUTIONL 0047 COMBAT SUPPORT CONTRIBUTIONL 0318 FORWARD AIR CONTROLLERS (FAC) MAP L 0827 NIGHT VISION THERMAL IMAGERY DEVICES MAP L 0956 FORWARD OBSERVERS MAP L 1036 MINE DETECTION, MINE CLEARING AND EOD CAPABILITIESL 2801 TACTICAL COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMSL 4211 NATIONAL SUPPORT FOR DEPLOYED FORCES MAP L 4212 COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT CONTRIBUTION MAP L 4252 FUEL HANDLING FOR GROUND VEHICLES MAP

MMAARRIITTIIMMEE

M 0001 MARITIME OPERATIONS - BASIC TRAINING MAP M 0003 STANDARDS FOR MARITIME FORCES MAP M 2406 NAVAL MINE COUNTERMEASURES (MCM) CAPABILITY FOR PORT CLEARANCE MAP M 3007 NATO/PFP COMMUNICATIONS MAP

AAIIRR

A 0001 AIR OPERATIONS AND TRAINING MAP A 1100 SUPPORT AIRCRAFT CONTRIBUTION MAP A 1459 AIR NAVIGATION AIDS AND RADIOS MAP A 2900 AIR SURVEILLANCE AND CONNECTIVITY WITH NATINEADS MAP A 3021 NATO COMPATIBLE IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS MAP A 4150 HOST NATION AIRFIELD OPERATIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE MAP A 4243 AEROMEDICAL EVACUATION (AE) CAPABILITIES

44

AnnexesPARTNERSHIP GOALS

UUNNIITTSS DDEECCLLAARREEDD FFOORR PPffPP AACCTTIIVVIITTIIEESS

- ONE LIGHT INFANTRY COMPANY

- ONE SPECIAL FORCES PLATOON

- ONE ENGINEER PLATOON (ANTI-MINE ACTIVITY)

- ONE ENGINEER PLATOON (HORIZONTAL CONSTRUCTION)

- ONE MILITARY POLICE PLATOON (deployed - ISAF)

- ONE NBC DEFENCE PLATOON (DECONTAMINATION)

- TWO MEDICAL TEAMS

45

AnnexesCAF MISSIONS AND TASKS

7.2. CAF MISSIONS AND TASKS

1. PROTECTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA'S SOVERIGNTY AND TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY, DEFENCE OF THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA AND THE ALLIES

AA.. TTaasskkss iinn ppeeaaccee::

11..11.. PPrrootteeccttiioonn ooff tthhee iinnddeeppeennddeennccee,, tteerrrriittoorriiaall iinntteeggrriittyy aanndd vviiaabbiilliittyy ooff tthhee RReeppuubblliicc ooff CCrrooaattiiaa

Through constantly ready forces ensure the protection of the independence, territorial integrity and viability of the Republic of

Croatia.

11..22.. PPrrootteeccttiioonn ooff tthhee RReeppuubblliicc ooff CCrrooaattiiaa''ss aaiirr ssppaaccee

Through the constant monitoring of air-space detect, intercept and control unidentified aircrafts, as well as aircrafts with

unknown intentions. In this manner guarantee the protection of the Republic of Croatia's air-space integrity and contribute

to the air-defence of the NATO Alliance.

11..33.. PPrrootteeccttiioonn ooff wwaatteerrss uunnddeerr tthhee jjuurriissddiiccttiioonn ooff tthhee RReeppuubblliicc ooff CCrrooaattiiaa

With the intention to protect the sovereignty and integrity of the Republic of Croatia's territorial waters, conduct constant

monitoring of the sea and coast. Through a routine presence, confirm the Croatian sovereignty and integrity over territorial

waters and the ecological-fishing zone.

11..44.. IInntteelllliiggeennccee aaccttiivviittiieess

Through the gathering, processing and analysis of intelligence data and information, support the decision making and

planning processes as well as operational leadership and command.

11..55.. PPrroottooccooll ttaasskkss

Provide resources and personnel for the performance of protocol tasks for national requirements and the security of air transport

for high-level officials as well as the Republic of Croatia's protocol needs.

11..66.. HHoosstt NNaattiioonn SSuuppppoorrtt ttaasskkss ffoorr tthhee AAlllliieedd ffoorrcceess

Ensure agreed upon support for Allied forces.

11..77.. SSeeaarrcchh aanndd rreessccuuee

Develop and maintain search and rescue capabilities for military personnel on land and sea as well as assistance and support

to civilian search and rescue services.

BB.. CCoommbbaatt ttaasskkss::

11..88.. DDeetteerr aa ppootteennttiiaall aaggggrreessssoorr aanndd ddeeffeenndd tthhee RReeppuubblliicc ooff CCrrooaattiiaa''ss tteerrrriittoorriiaall iinntteeggrriittyy,, iinncclluuddiinngg iinnvvookkiinngg ooff AArrttiiccllee VV.. ooff

tthhee NNoorrtthh AAttllaannttiicc TTrreeaattyy

With a quality selection of personnel, a high level of readiness, membership in the NATO Alliance, as well as the entire defence

system, create a perception within a potential adversary that achieving political goals against the Republic of Croatia through the

use of military force would prove to be too costly.

Defend the Republic of Croatia's territory with our own armed forces and with the assistance of the Allies.

11..99.. DDeeffeenndd NNAATTOO AAlllliiaannccee mmeemmbbeerrss ((AArrttiiccllee 55 ooff NNoorrtthh AAttllaannttiicc TTrreeaattyy))

The armed forces of the Republic of Croatia will support every member of the NATO Alliance, in accordance with Article V. of

the North Atlantic Treaty, and undertake corresponding action, including the use of the armed forces. The Republic of Croatia

will equip and train declared forces for this task.

22.. PPAARRTTIICCIIPPAATTIIOONN IINN OOPPEERRAATTIIOONNSS IINN RREESSPPOONNSSEE TTOO AA CCRRIISSIISS AABBRROOAADD

22..11.. PPeeaaccee ooppeerraattiioonnss

The Republic of Croatia, with other countries, in accordance with its interests and capabilities, will contribute to peace

operations, acting within the framework of international organisations of which it is a member (UN, OSCE, EU, NATO and others).

22..22.. HHuummaanniittaarriiaann ooppeerraattiioonnss

The Republic of Croatia, in accordance with its capabilities, will participate in operations regarding search and rescue,

assistance during catastrophes, mine clearance, removing the effects of radiological, chemical and biological accidents and

medical evacuation and treatment.

33.. PPAARRTTIICCIIPPAATTIIOONN IINN CCOONNFFIIDDEENNCCEE AANNDD SSEECCUURRIITTYY BBUUIILLDDIINNGG MMEEAASSUURREESS

33..11.. DDeeffeennccee ddiipplloommaaccyy

Build trust and understanding with other countries and organisations through visits and discussions, education, training and

joint exercises, joint projects, expert assistance and cooperation as well as other activities.

33..22.. RReeggiioonnaall iinniittiiaattiivveess

Activities within regional initiatives (CENCOOP, Quadrilateral co-operation/MLF, SEDM), including military exercises, multinational

units and others.

33..33.. AArrmmss ccoonnttrrooll aanndd CCSSBBMMss

Participation in arms control and CSBM activities, in accordance with international obligations and agreements the Republic of

Croatia has adopted.

46

AnnexesCAF MISSIONS AND TASKS

44.. AASSSSIISSTTAANNCCEE TTOO DDOOMMEESSTTIICC CCIIVVIILLIIAANN IINNSSTTIITTUUTTIIOONNSS

44..11 AAssssiissttaannccee ttoo cciivviilliiaann aauutthhoorriittiieess

Provide assistance to the civilian authorities in securing infrastructure and other facilities, as well as the protection of state

borders on the land, the sea and in the air.

44..22.. AAssssiissttaannccee ttoo ffuunnccttiioonnaall sseerrvviicceess iinn tthhee pprrootteeccttiioonn aanndd rreessccuuiinngg ooff ppooppuullaaccee aanndd pprrooppeerrttyy

Assist civilian institutions and services in the event of a catastrophe, accident or in other situations in which the resources of

the civil sector are inadequate, in accordance with the capabilities of the CAF.

44..33.. AAssssiissttaannccee ttoo cciivviilliiaann iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss iinn tthhee ffiigghhtt aaggaaiinnsstt tteerrrroorriissmm,, ttrraaffffiicckkiinngg aanndd tthhee pprroolliiffeerraattiioonn ooff wweeaappoonnss ooff mmaassss

ddeessttrruuccttiioonn..

The CAF will provide the necessary assistance, in accordance with its role, function and available resources, to civilian

services that are responsible for preventing terrorist activities, the trafficking of weapons of mass destruction, the trafficking

of people, drugs and goods.

44..44.. AAssssiissttaannccee ttoo cciivviilliiaann iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss iinn ppeerrffoorrmmiinngg nnoonn--mmiilliittaarryy ttaasskkss

Provide personnel, equipment and expert assistance, to other ministries and civilian institutions while performing their

tasks (research activities, cartography, hydrological-meteorological activities, protection of cultural monuments and similar

activities), in accordance with the role and function of the CAF and available resources.

47

AnnexesCOMBAT FORCE ELEMENTS

7.3.CO

MB

AT

FO

RC

E E

LEM

EN

TS

1. P

RO

TE

CT

ION

OF

SO

VE

RIG

NT

Y A

ND

TE

RR

ITO

RIA

L

INT

EG

RIT

Y, D

EF

EN

CE

OF

TH

E R

EP

UB

LIC

OF

CR

OA

TIA

AN

D

AL

LIE

S

2.

PA

RT

ICIP

AT

ION

IN C

RIS

IS

RE

SP

ON

SE

OP

ER

AT

ION

S

3.P

AR

TIC

IPA

TIO

N IN

CO

NF

IDE

NC

E A

ND

SE

CU

RIT

Y B

UIL

DIN

G

ME

AS

UR

ES

4. A

SS

IST

AN

CE

TO

DO

ME

ST

IC

CIV

ILIA

N IN

ST

ITU

TIO

NS

RE

QU

IRE

D

FO

R T

AS

K

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.6

1.7

1.8

1.9

2.1

2.2

3.1

3.2

3.3

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

Body

Elem

ent

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

RA

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

A

R

T

MO

TO

RIZ

ED

BA

TT

ALIO

N4

4

1

1

0.3

1

4

4

TA

NK

BA

TT

ALIO

N2

2

2

2

ME

CH

AN

IZE

D B

AT

TA

LION

2

2

0.3

0.3

2

2

RO

CK

ET

- AR

TILLE

RY

BA

TT

ALIO

N2

2

2

2

AN

TI-A

RM

OU

R C

OM

PA

NY

2

2

0.3

2

2

AN

TI - A

IR B

AT

TA

LION

2

2

0.3

2

2 E

NG

INE

ER

BA

TT

ALIO

N2

2

0.3

0.3

0.3

1

0.3

2

2

NB

C C

OM

PA

NY

2

2

0.3

0.3

0.3

1

1

2

2

RE

CO

NN

AIS

AN

CE

CO

MP

AN

Y2

2

2

0.3

1

0.3

1

1

1

2

2

Guards Units

SIG

NA

LS C

OM

PA

NY

2

2

0.3

0.1

2

2

INF

AN

TR

Y B

AT

TA

LION

3

0.3

3

2

0

3 3

TA

NK

BA

TT

ALIO

N1

1

1

1 R

OC

KE

T – A

RT

ILLER

Y

BA

TT

ALIO

N3

3

3

3

AN

TI-A

RM

OU

R C

OM

PA

NY

1

1

1

1

AN

TI – A

IR B

AT

TA

LION

3

3

3

3

EN

GIN

EE

R B

AT

TA

LION

3

3

1

3 3

NB

C C

OM

PA

NY

1

3

1

3

0.3

0.3

0.3

1

3

1

3

1 3

4

SP

EC

IAL O

PS

. CO

MP

AN

Y

1

0.3

1

0.3

0.3

0.3

0.3

1

0.3

1

0 1

MILIT

AR

Y IN

TE

LLIGE

NC

EC

OM

PA

NY

1

1

1

0.3

0.3

0.3

1

0 1

SIG

NA

LS B

AT

TA

LION

3

1

3

1

3 1

4

MP

CO

MP

AN

Y

7

7

1

0.3

0.3

3

1

1

7 0

7

LAND FORCES

Other Units

SIG

INT

CE

NT

RE

1

1

1

0.3

1 0

1

CO

MB

AT

AIR

CR

AF

T S

QU

AD

RO

N

1

0.5

1

0.5

1 0

1

TR

AN

SP

OR

T A

IRC

RA

FT

SQ

UA

DR

ON

1

0.5

1

0.5

0.5

0.5

0.2

5

0.5

1 0

1

TR

AN

SP

OR

T H

ELIC

OP

TE

R S

QU

AD

RO

N2

0.2

0.2

0.4

2

0.2

0.2

0.3

0.2

0.4

0.4

0.2

2

0 2

CO

AS

T G

UA

RD

AIR

FO

RC

ES

QU

AD

RO

N

1

1

0.3

1

0.3

0.3

0.3

0.3

1

0 1

AIR

FORCES

CIS

BA

TT

ALIO

N1

1

1

1

1

1

1 0

1

SU

RF

AC

E A

CT

IVIT

Y D

IVIS

ION

1

1

0.1

1

0.1

0.2

0.2

0.2

1

0 1

SU

PP

OR

T D

IVIS

ION

1

1

0.1

1

0.1

0.2

0.2

0.2

1

0 1

CO

AS

T G

UA

RD

DIV

ISIO

N1

1

0.3

1

0.3

0.1

0.3

0.3

0.3

1

0 1

MIN

E &

AN

TI-M

INE

AC

TIV

ITY

UN

IT1

1

0.1

1

0.2

1 0

1 C

IS B

AT

TA

LION

1

1

1

1

1

1

11

1 0

1

NAVAL

FORCES

SP

EC

IAL O

PS

. CO

MP

AN

Y

1

1

1

1

0.3

0.3

0.3

0.3

1

0.3

1

0 1

Notes: A

-active; R-reserve; T

-total; CIS

-comm

and inform

ation system

s;b

old

ed

nu

mb

ers – prim

ary task;ita

lic n

um

be

rs – secondary task (not calculated in sum

); Task 1.6. is

performed by C

SS

unitsw

hich are not presented in this

table

48

AnnexesACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

ADAMS Allied Deployment and Movement System

AE Aero-Medical Evacuation

ASDE Air Situation Data Exchange

CAF Croatian Armed Forces

CAF GS Croatian Armed Forces General Staff

CAF LTDP Croatian Armed Forces Long Term Development Plan

CDM Capability Development Mechanism

CENCOOP Central European Nations Co-operation

CFSP Common Foreign and Security Policy

CIS Communications and Information System

COIA Combined Operational Evaluation and Investment Appraisal

CSBM Confidence and Security Building Measure

CSS Combat Service Support

ECAP European Capability Action Plan

EDA European Defence Agency

ESDP European Security and Defence Policy

EU European Union

FAC Forward Air Controllers

HNS Host Nation Support

HRM Human Resource Management

ISAF International Security Assistance Force

MAP Membership Action Plan

MCM Mine Countermeasures

METOC Meteorological and Oceanographic

MLF Multinational Land Force

MoD Ministry of Defence

MP Military Police

NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

NCOs Non-commissioned Officers

NBC Nuclear Biological Chemical

NRF NATO Response Force

OSCE Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe

PARP Partnership and Review Process

PfP Partnership for Peace

RSOM Reception, Staging and Onward Movement

SEECP South-East European Co-operation Process

SEDM Southeast Europe Defence Ministerial

SDR Strategic Defence Review

STANAG Standardization Agreement

UN United Nations

UN SHIRBRIG Stand-by Arrangement High Readiness Brigade

WMD Weapons of Mass Destruction

republic of croatia ministry of defence

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