The Croatian Navy is moving forward with plans to acquire two new corvettes, a major fleet modernization effort valued at between €660 million and €1.6 billion. Once commissioned, the ships will become the largest and most capable surface combatants in Croatia’s naval inventory, significantly enhancing its maritime defense posture in the Adriatic Sea.
Currently, the Croatian Navy operates a fleet consisting mainly of missile boats and patrol vessels, limiting its ability to conduct sustained operations. The planned corvettes will address these gaps by providing improved endurance, survivability, and multi-mission capability, including surface warfare, maritime patrol, and NATO interoperability.
The Croatian Ministry of Defence is holding discussions with up to 12 shipyards from eight countries that have met initial qualification requirements. Shipbuilders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, South Korea, Turkey, Spain, and the United States are under consideration. Prominent contenders reportedly include Fincantieri, Damen, Lürssen, and Hyundai Heavy Industries, among others.
Design proposals range from 1,000 to 3,500 tons displacement and lengths of 80 to 120 meters, offering multiple configuration options. Notable candidates include Turkey’s MİLGEM ADA-class corvette, France’s Gowind, Germany’s K-130, Italy’s EPC and Al Zubarah, the Netherlands’ Sigma, Spain’s Avante 2200, South Korea’s light frigate design, and the US Littoral Combat Ship, highlighting the competitive and international nature of the program.
