At the AIRVG2025 airshow at Franjo Tuđman Airport in Velika Gorica, the Croatian Air Force will officially present its 191st Squadron, composed of Rafale aircraft, marking its entry into the elite circle of NATO air forces. For the first time, all 12 Rafale aircraft will be displayed at this event. AIRVG, which gathers thousands of aviation enthusiasts, represents the culmination of a years-long modernization process of the Croatian Armed Forces.
Following last year’s AIRVG, where citizens saw Croatian Rafales in flight for the first time, this Saturday, May 10th, will mark the debut presentation of all 12 Dassault Rafale fighter jets, achieving the squadron’s full operational readiness. This is the first opportunity for the public to see the complete formation, symbolizing the strengthening of Croatia’s defense capabilities.
A special highlight of the spectacle will be a French Rafale in its new ‘Tricolore’ livery, demonstrating exceptional combat and maneuvering capabilities. Alongside it, notable combat aircraft include the Eurofighter Typhoon (Italy) and JAS 39 Gripen (Hungary), as well as numerous other domestic and international aircraft.
Organizers emphasize that one key goal of AIRVG2025 is to encourage young people to pursue aviation careers. As part of the program, an educational panel titled “Military Pilot—More Than Just a Profession” will be held in the airport’s old terminal, and visitors will have the opportunity to speak with pilots, cadets, and aviation industry experts.
Due to high demand and the need to maintain regular civilian air traffic, visitor numbers are limited, and tickets (€5) are available exclusively through the CoreEvent platform. Children under 16 enter for free when accompanied by an adult.
