Croatian Air Force | |
---|---|
Hrvatsko ratno zrakoplovstvo | |
Founded | 12 December 1991 |
Country | Croatia |
Type | Air force |
Role | Aerial warfare |
Size | 1,500 |
Part of | Croatian Armed Forces |
Headquarters | Pleso Air Base |
Motto(s) | "They Watch and Sail the Croatian Sky" |
Anniversaries | December 12th |
Engagements | |
Website | vojnipilot |
Commanders | |
Current commander | Brigadier General Michael Križanec |
Notable commanders | General Imra Agotić, Brigadier General Rudolf Perešin |
Insignia | |
Roundel | |
Fin flash | |
Flag | |
Aircraft flown | |
Fighter | Rafale |
Helicopter | Mi-171, UH-60, OH-58, Bell 206 |
Trainer | PC-9, Z 242 |
Transport | CL-415, AT-802 |
The Croatian Air Force (Croatian: Hrvatsko ratno zrakoplovstvo or HRZ) is a branch of the Croatian Armed Forces tasked primarily with safeguarding the sovereignty of Croatian airspace and providing aviation support to other branches during joint operations. Prior to a 2018 decision by the Croatian Parliament, the HRZ was responsible for the integrated air defense system of Croatia. However, Air Defense (PZO) was subsequently transferred to the Croatian Army.[1]
The mission of HRZ is to monitor and protect the airspace of the Republic of Croatia, participate in joint and international NATO/UN/EU-led military operations, and implement operations to provide assistance to civil institutions in the country. Today, the Croatian Air Force has 1,500 members, of which about 200 are pilots.[2] The share of women is 13.44%.[3]