Knin Under Croatian Air Force Surveillance: Drone Ban on August 4 and 5
The Ministry of Defense warns citizens of flight activities on the occasion of the 31st anniversary of Operation Storm and urges caution and compliance with safety measures.
The Ministry of Defense warns citizens of flight activities on the occasion of the 31st anniversary of Operation Storm and urges caution and compliance with safety measures.
The sky above Knin and Šibenik-Knin County has been under enhanced surveillance by the Croatian Air Force (CAF) since today, August 4, 2026. Flight activities, including aircraft and helicopters, are taking place as part of preparations for the central celebration of Victory Day, Homeland Thanksgiving Day, and the 31st anniversary of the military-police operation Storm.
The Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Croatia (MORH) has informed the public in advance that there will be increased noise on August 4 and 5, 2026, due to military aircraft overflights. MORH emphasizes that the noise will not be a sign of any extraordinary event, but solely the result of planned preparations and the celebration program itself.
The aim of this early notice is to prevent unnecessary concern among citizens, especially the elderly, parents with young children, and pet owners who may react strongly to the sound of military aircraft.
In addition to the noise warning, MORH has issued a clear call to drone owners. The use of drones in the Knin area is strictly prohibited during August 4 and 5, 2026. Any unauthorized drone flight in the airspace where military activities are taking place poses a serious security threat.
As the Ministry points out, a drone that enters the flight path of a military aircraft or helicopter without authorization is not a harmless toy. In an area where aircraft are flying at high speeds according to a predetermined plan, such an object can endanger the safety of pilots, crews, citizens on the ground, and the entire celebration program.
The celebration of Operation Storm in Knin is far more than an ordinary public event. It is a state event that brings together veterans, families of the fallen, state leadership, and a large number of citizens. Military aircraft overflights are traditionally one of the most striking parts of the program, but they also require absolute control of the airspace.
MORH emphasizes that the safety of such an event must not depend on someone's desire for an attractive aerial shot. Drone owners are obliged to comply with all legal rules and restrictions in force precisely because of military activities and the large public gathering. The CAF overflights will be part of the tribute to the victory and Croatian veterans, and the least expected of citizens is to leave the sky above Knin to those who are trained and authorized to fly there.
