Croatian Economy Minister Discusses Defense Industry Cooperation With Rheinmetall
Croatian Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar held talks with representatives of Rheinmetall on potential investments and industrial cooperation in Croatia. Discussions focused on advanced technologies, defense manufacturing, and integration of Croatian companies into European supply chains.
Croatian Economy Minister Ante Šušnjar met with representatives of German defense group Rheinmetall to discuss potential investments in industrial projects in Croatia, according to a statement published by the minister.
The talks reportedly covered cooperation in the defense sector, development of advanced technologies, and opportunities for Croatian companies in defense manufacturing and shipbuilding.
Šušnjar stated that Croatia aims to strengthen its defense-industrial base through the country’s National Industrial Development Plan. The government is seeking to expand higher value-added industrial production while accelerating technological development and increasing the participation of domestic companies in European strategic manufacturing and supply chains.
The discussions also highlighted Croatia’s interest in closer cooperation with major European defense manufacturers as NATO members continue to increase defense spending and industrial output.
Rheinmetall has significantly expanded its production footprint across Europe in response to growing demand for ammunition, armored vehicles, and military equipment following the deterioration of the European security environment.
The meeting signals continued Croatian efforts to position local industry within broader European defense procurement and production networks, particularly in sectors linked to land systems, advanced manufacturing, and naval industry cooperation.
