On October 28, 2024, in Berlin, Croatian and German Defense Ministers Ivan Anušić and Boris Pistorius signed a letter of intent confirming Croatia’s plan to transfer its M-84 tanks and M-80 infantry fighting vehicles to the Ukrainian armed forces. In return, Germany has committed to financially support Croatia’s acquisition of 50 advanced Leopard 2A8 tanks. This initiative forms part of a coordinated military aid effort led by several Western countries, aiming to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities with proven equipment. Concurrently, Croatia will join the Leopard 2A8 procurement program alongside the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Sweden, Italy, and the Netherlands.
Croatia intends to transfer 30 M-84 tanks, a widely used armored vehicle model in the Balkans originating from the former Yugoslavia. Based on the Soviet T-72M1, these tanks were produced under license in Yugoslavia and adapted to regional needs. Since the early 2000s, Croatia has upgraded its M-84 fleet to the M-84A4 Sniper standard, which includes a DBR-84 ballistic computer for enhanced firing accuracy and an SCS-84 day/night gunner sight. With a 1,000-horsepower V46-TK diesel engine, the tanks offer solid mobility; however, their armor remains unchanged, lacking additional dynamic protection, making them less resistant to modern anti-tank munitions compared to more advanced models like the Leopard 2A8. Despite this limitation, the M-84 is well-suited for operations where mobility and firepower are prioritized over advanced protection.
The transfer also includes 30 M-80 infantry fighting vehicles. Though similar in appearance to the Soviet BMP-1 and BMP-2, the M-80 is a uniquely Yugoslav design, featuring a 20mm HS.804 automatic cannon and light armor protection. Primarily used for troop transport and infantry support, M-80s are versatile on the battlefield, offering rapid maneuverability and moderate firepower suitable for support and armed reconnaissance missions. Despite their age, these vehicles remain in good condition and are regularly maintained, ensuring reliability for field operations.