The Croatian Air Force has officially retired the MiG-21 fighter jets, closing a defining chapter in its aviation history. This Soviet supersonic aircraft has been a central part of national defense since Croatia's independence in 1991. Now, the protection of Croatian airspace will be temporarily taken over by Italian Eurofighter Typhoons and Hungarian Saab Gripens, before the new fleet of modern Dassault Rafale fighter jets takes over fully. This change marks a milestone in the comprehensive modernization of the Croatian Armed Forces. Developed during the Cold War, the MiG-21 was considered one of the most successful fighter aircraft of its time. For over 60 years, this model served in various countries, including Croatia. There, the aircraft entered service in 1992 and played a central role in the young state's defense concept. However, as with other European countries, such as Romania, which retired its MiG-21 fleet in 2023, the limited lifespan of the aircraft type eventually became a problem. Outdated technology and rising maintenance costs led to the decision to switch to more modern systems. The transition to the Rafale Under a $960 million contract, Croatia acquired 12 used Dassault Rafale fighter jets from France. These aircraft, capable of performing both air defense and ground attack missions, represent a significant increase in the country's military capabilities. The first six aircraft were handed over to Croatia in April 2024, accompanied by a ceremonial reception near Zagreb. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković stressed the strategic importance of the Rafale fleet, which not only strengthens national security but also consolidates Croatia's role within NATO. A key part of the modernization is the

The temporary suspension of military surveillance of Austrian airspace last weekend sparked a heated debate about the personnel policy and strategic direction of the Austrian Armed Forces. The reason for this was an acute shortage of air traffic controllers, as many of them had to reduce overtime. This incident not only highlights the challenges facing the army, but also raises questions about the future of national security. The Austrian Armed Forces have been under pressure for years to provide sufficiently qualified personnel for military airspace surveillance. Air traffic control, a highly specialized unit responsible for coordination and security in military airspace, is particularly affected. The problem lies in the migration of personnel to the civilian Austro Control, which lures with more attractive salaries and working conditions. While a civilian air traffic controller can earn significantly higher salaries, the Austrian Armed Forces are now trying to counteract this with bonuses and new training programs. The impact on national security The suspension of surveillance affected, among other things, the operational readiness of the Eurofighters, which form the backbone of Austrian airspace defense. Without air traffic controllers, these fighter jets could not take off. Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner then announced that she would examine alternative solutions to ensure safety even in the event of personnel shortages. In the meantime, Austria is playing a key role in the European Sky Shield Initiative, a European defense program that aims to enable closer cooperation in air defense despite Austria's neutrality. However, this incident highlights the importance of an independent and reliable military infrastructure in order to protect national interests. A structural problem with long-term consequences The gap in military airspace surveillance is not an isolated problem. It reflects the generally difficult

In a strategic decision, the Israeli Ministry of Defense recently announced that it would purchase 25 F-15IA fighter jets from Boeing. The investment, worth $5,2 billion, will be fully financed by US military aid, the ministry said on November 7, 2024. Delivery of the first aircraft is scheduled for 2031. According to the original plan, Israel will receive an option for an additional 25 aircraft, which could significantly expand the F-15IA fleet. The purchase of the F-15IA, a special version of the F-15EX Eagle II, shows that Israel wants to further modernize its arsenal. The F-15IA jets are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including digital cockpits, radar and electronic warfare systems, and improved communications capabilities designed to optimize cooperation with Israel's F-35I 'Adir' fleet. In particular, the F-15IA jets will be able to carry up to 24 air-to-air missiles and are therefore ideally equipped for complex air superiority missions. The Director of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, Major General Eyal Zamir, emphasized the importance of the new fleet for Israel's military strength. This, together with a recently acquired third squadron of F-35 fighter jets, represents a significant reinforcement of the air force and an extension of the strategic reach - a capability that is of crucial importance in the current security situation. In addition to the new acquisition of the F-15IA aircraft, Israel is also planning to modernize 25 F-15I fighter jets already in service. The F-15I 'Ra'am', an adapted variant of the F-15E Strike Eagle, has been in service since the 1990s. These fighter jets are now to be upgraded for improved performance. The planned modernizations include both the technical renewal of the machines and the upgrading