VIDEO: Croatian fighter jets refuel mid-air over Croatia for first time
- by croatiaweek
- in News
(Photo: HRZ)
For the first time ever, Croatian Rafale fighter jets have successfully refuelled mid-air with a French A330 MRTT aircraft in Croatian airspace.
The landmark achievement took place as part of the PEGASE 25 activity on 29 and 30 April 2025. The exercise involved members of the Croatian Air Force’s 191st Fighter Squadron and their counterparts from the French Air and Space Force.
Alongside the Croatian and French Rafales, two French A400M transport aircraft and the A330 MRTT refuelling plane also took part in the joint activity.
(Photo: HRZ)
The main goal of PEGASE 25 is to strengthen interoperability between allies, enhancing Europe’s strategic autonomy. The deployment forms part of France’s implementation of NATO’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept and the Air Shielding missions, both of which aim to bolster the security of NATO’s eastern flank.
In addition to the historic mid-air refuelling, the exercise featured various joint training flights and drills between the two air forces.
(Photo: HRZ)
“We are very happy to have you here and look forward to working with you today, tomorrow, and in the future,” said Colonel Željko Ninić, Chief of Staff and Deputy Commander of the Croatian Air Force, addressing Brigadier General Patrice Hugret, Commander of the French Air Operations Brigade.
Ninić also highlighted the significance of the event, which took place just days after the 191st Squadron reached full operational capacity.
“This activity is extremely important for the Croatian Air Force and the 191st Fighter Squadron. It has once again proven the top-level skills and preparedness of our pilots,” he said.
(Photo: HRZ)
Brigadier General Hugret underlined the importance of agility and resilience in today’s air forces, noting the need to be ready to provide support whenever and wherever it is required.
French Ambassador to Croatia, Fabien Fieschi, praised the growing partnership between the two nations.
“Croatia has become not only a fully integrated member of NATO and the EU, but also a strategic partner of France,” he said. “By sharing equipment and working side-by-side, France and Croatia are strengthening Europe’s and NATO’s ability to defend their territories and respond to any threats to the sovereignty of member states.”
