Croatia has joined the framework agreement for the supply of large-calibre and medium-calibre ammunition to European Union member states concluded in December 2025 between the Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic and ZVS holding. The amendment to the framework agreement was signed by Slovak Minister of Defence Robert Kaliňák, Croatian Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić, and representatives of ZVS holding.
The framework agreement, with a maximum value of up to EUR 58 billion, was concluded between the Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic and ZVS holding for a period of seven years. The agreement also allows other European Union member states to join through amendments and procure ammunition from ZVS holding under its terms.
Croatia's accession demonstrates the practical use of the framework agreement and confirms the interest of European countries in cooperation on ammunition procurement and the development of defence capabilities. Croatia's accession will be followed by specific ammunition orders based on the requirements of the Croatian Armed Forces. Their financial value and exact composition have not yet been specified.
According to Slovak Minister of Defence Robert Kaliňák:
"Croatia's accession confirms that Slovakia, through ZVS holding, is able to offer European partners a reliable and long-term solution for ammunition supplies. This is good news for the Slovak defence industry, employment and public finances, as further growth in production brings new investments, jobs and tax revenues. At the same time, it strengthens the European defence industrial base and the ability of European countries to ensure their own security."
"Croatia's interest confirms confidence in a cooperation model that combines the experience and production capabilities of the CSG Group with the strategic role of the Slovak state as a co-owner of ZVS holding. This partnership enables us to make long-term investments in production development and strengthen security of supply for European customers. At the same time, this project demonstrates CSG's manufacturing flexibility. In addition to NATO-standard 155 mm ammunition, we are capable of supplying a wide range of other calibres," said Jan Marinov, CEO of CSG Defence Systems Division.
Croatia decided to join the framework agreement based on its long-standing and steadily developing defence-industrial cooperation with Slovakia and its confidence in the capabilities of the Slovak defence industry. The signing of the amendment builds upon broader cooperation between the two countries in defence and security, which has been actively supported in recent months by representatives of the Slovak and Croatian Ministries of Defence.
ZVS holding is among the key ammunition manufacturers in Central Europe. Since 2015, the company has been jointly owned by DMD Group, a state-owned enterprise operating under the Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic, and MSM GROUP, a member of the CSG Group, each holding a 50% stake. Thanks to this combination of public and private capital, the company has significantly expanded its production capacities in recent years and has become an important supplier of ammunition to the armed forces of NATO and European Union member states.
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