They gave Ukraine everything they had. This small country put others to shame
Several months ago, Croatia announced the transfer of Mi-8 helicopters to Ukraine. Only now has it come to light that this included all such machines that this small southern European country had.
Oct 21, 2023 | updated: 4:38 AM EDT, October 23, 2023
The gesture of Croatian authorities was appreciated by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. It was he who, during a meeting with Croatian Defense Minister Mario Banožic, raised the issue of assisting Ukraine.
All Mi-8s from Croatia have been sent to the front
- We appreciate Croatia's unyielding commitment to assist Ukraine, as seen in numerous donations of military equipment, including all Mi-8 helicopters, in the deployment of forces in NATO battle groups in Poland, Lithuania and Hungary, as well as in donations related to humanitarian aid - said Lloyd Austin.
The Mi-8 is a multi-purpose helicopter of Soviet pedigree, its history dating back to the 1960s. The Croatian examples were fully functional, thus providing tangible support for the Ukrainians. These are units that can assist in combat missions, but above all they are used for the transport of soldiers, and even the evacuation of civilians.
The Mi-8 can accommodate several dozen people or up to approximately 8818 lbs of equipment or supplies. The helicopter has two engines, can reach speeds of up to about 155 mph, and can operate at an altitude of almost 14,764 feet. Armament depends on the version, usually machine guns of cal. 0.3 in and cal. 0.5 in are mounted, but some versions also have, among others, in electronic warfare systems and space for anti-tank missiles (e.g., 9M17P Scorpion).
Croatia will reach for newer equipment
Lloyd Austin and Mario Banožic also discussed the modernization of the Croatian army, but information about this did not reach the public.
From earlier reports, it is known that Croatia has decided to opt for French multipurpose Rafale fighters in terms of air forces. The first of them arrived over the Adriatic in early October. The helicopter fleet should be expanded by at least several Black Hawk units. This is an American troop transport and infantry support helicopter. It is not excluded that Croatia, like several other countries, will receive favorable purchase conditions from the USA in exchange for earlier assistance to Ukraine.
