Imagine this: Croatia is bringing back military service! But not the old-school years-long draft. No, this is a ‘basic military training’ lasting about six months, after which you become a reservist until the age of 55! Yes, you read that right — the state wants to train you to be ready to help when needed, not as a professional soldier, but as a trained citizen. And all this for around 20 million euros!
Defense Minister Ivo Anušić doesn’t hide that this is a big step in strengthening national security, adapting to new geopolitical realities. But wait, there’s more! Croatia plans to invest a whopping 3.5% of GDP in the defense sector, plus an additional 1.5% in civil security infrastructure. This means modernizing the army, investing in cybersecurity, drones, air defense systems, and even producing small FPV drones — technology proven effective in conflicts like Ukraine.
But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. A 59-year-old veteran with three decades of veteran’s pension advises young people to reject this call with contempt, calling them ‘cannon fodder’ in case of war. Is this just a voice of disappointment or a warning? While the state prepares a big military showcase for the 30th anniversary of Operation Storm, including Rafale fighter jets and Leopard tanks, security services are seriously investigating a recent incident in Udbina where three people stormed a military training ground and clashed with a military patrol.
So, what do you think? Is this a bold step towards a safer Croatia or just throwing money at something young people will reject? Maybe it’s time for all of us to join the debate — or at least have a laugh about ‘reservists’ until 55. Who knows, military training might even give you a leg up in the job market! Or not? Drop your thoughts below — would you do those six months or rather stay on the couch binge-watching shows? Just don’t say you didn’t know about this military revolution!
