Zagreb, 17 June 2025 (Hina/MIA) -- Croatia intends to become a leading nation in the production and supply of small unmanned aerial vehicles as Europe strengthens its armed forces, Croatian Defense Minister Ivan Anušić told his French counterpart Sébastien Lecornu in Paris.

Anušić and Lecornu, who is expected to visit Croatia in September, met Monday at the Paris Air Show 2025, an international exhibition of military equipment and weaponry, where they reaffirmed excellent defense cooperation.

During the upcoming visit of the French minister in autumn, the two states are expected to finalize a contract for the procurement of 18 Caesar howitzers for the Croatian Army, along with a comprehensive package of training and logistical support, following the principle of an all-encompassing approach, the Croatian Ministry of Defense said.

"This continues our intensive effort to equip and modernize our Armed Forces," Anušić said, adding that France was the leading nation for their procurement.

Anušić also presented to Lecornu Croatia's ambition to lead in the production and provision of small drones, within the broader European armament plans and the strengthening of domestic defense industries.

Lecornu highlighted the potentials and capacities of Croatian companies in the production of these drones, which will be further explored during his visit in September when he is expected to tour their manufacturing facilities, the ministry said.

The French Republic supports the modernization of the Croatian Army, Croatia's defense minister said, thanking his French counterpart for the transfer of experience and knowledge in the procurement of the multi-role Rafale fighter jets.

Since acquiring Rafale multi-role fighters, cooperation between the two countries in defense has steadily improved, the ministry added.

Next week, a NATO summit will be held in The Hague, where decisions on increasing defense spending by member states are expected.

"Croatia is aware that increased defense spending is crucial," Anušić said, adding that after reaching the 2% defense spending target this year, "we plan to further increase it to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, and to 3% by 2030."