Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Croatia continues with strategic investments in advanced technology that enables more effective protection of the external borders of the European Union. During the formal handover at the Police Academy "First Croatian Border Guard" on August 30, 2024, Minister Davor Božinović presented the latest generation of thermal imaging cameras mounted on mobile trailers, along with corresponding field vehicles. This high-tech equipment, which allows for 24-hour surveillance, makes the Croatian border police one of the best-equipped in Europe.

Minister Božinović emphasized that this is the third generation of mobile thermal imaging cameras, which have been significantly improved compared to previous models. "These cameras are essential for monitoring borders that are also the external borders of the European Union. Their ability to operate in all conditions, regardless of GSM signal availability or satellite connection, enables continuous monitoring even in the most isolated areas," said Božinović. He added that the number of illegal border crossings has decreased by 55% this year, while the number of asylum applications has fallen by 58%, which is a direct result of the increased efficiency of the border police.

This progress allows Croatia to successfully meet its obligations under the new Pact on Migration and Asylum, which the European Union plans to implement by 2026. The Pact envisions a range of new legislative and operational capacities for member states, with protection of external borders remaining a crucial point. "Croatia will be ready to implement these measures and ensure the protection of its borders, preventing the entry of those who do not adhere to legal procedures," Božinović emphasized during his speech.

Alongside Božinović, the handover was attended by the Chief of Police Nikola Milina, his deputy Jozo Šuker, and the assistant head of the Border Administration Gilio Toić Sintić. Toić Sintić highlighted that the new cameras will be deployed along the entire external border, ensuring a high level of security at all key points. "These cameras allow not only for surveillance of large areas but also for the detection of activity at distances of up to five kilometers, which significantly improves the operational capability of the border police," he said.

In addition to the technology itself, the systems are equipped with solar panels and fuel cells, which allow them to operate in full autonomy. These mobile units can remain in the field for extended periods without the need for external energy sources, which further enhances their operational flexibility. Relocating these systems from one location to another is possible in a very short time, ensuring quick response to changes in the field situation.

The equipment was acquired as part of a project co-financed by the Integrated Border Management Fund, the Financial Instrument for Border Management and Visa Policy (BMVI), with 75% of the costs covered by European funds, while the remaining 25% was financed from the State Budget of the Republic of Croatia. The total value of the contract, concluded with the consortium of economic operators consisting of Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d., Securitas Hrvatska d.o.o. and Hidraulika promet d.o.o., amounts to EUR 6,988,244.60 including VAT.

Božinović noted that Croatia has already demonstrated its commitment to protecting the external borders of the European Union several times. Since 2019, the border police have used thermal imaging cameras that have proven to be extremely effective in preventing illegal crossings. To date, a total of 35 such mobile systems have been delivered through several phases, and the latest delivery will further strengthen the police's capabilities. According to the minister, these measures are crucial for the long-term preservation of security not only for Croatia but also for the entire European Union.

In addition to technical innovations, the Ministry of the Interior is actively working on improving the training and operational capabilities of police officers. In collaboration with European partners, a series of joint exercises and operations are planned to further enhance the ability to detect and prevent illegal activities at the border. "This equipment would not be effective without well-trained personnel, so we continuously invest in the education and development of our police officers," Božinović emphasized.

Cooperation with European institutions is also a key element in implementing border protection measures. The European Commission has already praised the innovative solutions introduced by Croatia, particularly highlighting autonomous systems with thermal imaging cameras as an example of best practice. "We hope that other member states will recognize the benefits of these systems and follow our example," added the minister.

Through this modernization, Croatia becomes an important player in the European security architecture. As the European Union prepares to implement the new Pact on Migration, the Croatian model of border protection could serve as a model for other member states. This model is based on a combination of the latest technology, operational flexibility, and a high degree of autonomy, enabling effective action in all conditions.

Plans for the future include further strengthening the technical capabilities of the border police, as well as expanding international cooperation in the field of security. "Our goal is to create an integrated border protection system that will be ready to respond to all challenges, from illegal crossings to cross-border crime. We will achieve this through continuous investment in technology and personnel, and through cooperation with our European partners," concluded Božinović.

The latest delivery of thermal imaging cameras and vehicles represents an important step in this direction. All previous results show that Croatia is on the right path to becoming one of the most efficient countries in protecting the external borders of the European Union. This project not only contributes to Croatia's security but also strengthens the security of the entire region, ensuring that the European Union remains firm in its efforts to prevent illegal activities at its external borders.