Slovenia

Introduction to the Series

Welcome to “2% or Bust: The NATO Member Race to Relevance”, where we explore how NATO countries are working to meet their 2% defense spending target. Today, we spotlight Slovenia, a nation that may be small but critical in NATO’s broader strategy.

Slovenia is one of the most beautiful countries I've visited. It is very diverse and pristine, with something for everyone, from mountains to forests, to plains, lakes, and even some sea. I cannot forget the people. Hardworking, honest, and proud.

Population, Area, and Defense Spending Context

• Population: Approximately 2.1 million people, representing 0.28% of NATO’s total population.
• Area: 20,273 square kilometers, placing Slovenia among NATO’s smallest member nations it makes up approximately 0.082% of NATO’s total land area.
• Strategic Location: At the crossroads of Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans gives it a unique geopolitical importance. Its geography includes the Alps, the Adriatic Sea, and the Karst region, offering diverse training grounds for NATO forces.
• NATO Membership: Slovenia became a NATO member on March 29, 2004, following its independence from Yugoslavia in 1991.
• Defense Spending (2023) - Slovenia contributes 0.08% of NATO’s total defense spending, its population represents 0.28% of NATO’s total, underscoring its below-average investment relative to its size.

Defense Spending Overview

• Current Spending: Slovenia allocates 1.26% of GDP to defense, equivalent to €870 million in 2023.
• Projection: Plans to reach the NATO 2% target by 2030.
• Approved Plan: Slovenia has set a more ambitious timeline to reach the 2% target. The National Assembly of Slovenia passed a resolution in March 2024 to increase defense spending to meet the 2% GDP target by 2030, five years earlier than previously planned. This resolution includes plans to almost double the number of members in the Slovenian Armed Forces (SAF) to 10,000 by 2040.

NATO Institutions, Installations and Excercises

Nato Mountain Warfare centre Of Excellence (MW COE):

• Located in Polj?e, Slovenia, this NATO-accredited center specializes in training and doctrine for military operations in mountainous terrain.
• It provides expertise, training programs, and operational support to NATO forces, showcasing Slovenia’s unique contributions to alliance readiness.
• It has some interesting courses coming up:
• Mountain Warfare Small Units Leader Course (November 11–22, 2024, Szklarska Por?ba, Poland): Leadership training for small unit mountain operations.
• Lessons Learned Workshop: “Current and Future Security Threats” (December 3–5, 2024, Bled, Slovenia): Analysis of emerging security threats in mountain warfare.
• Mountain Risk Management Workshop: Integrating UAV Technology (March 17–21, 2025, Polj?e, Slovenia): Using UAVs for risk mitigation in mountainous environments.
• Air Policing: Slovenia, lacking its own air capabilities, benefits from NATO's air policing mission. NATO defends the airspace over Slovenia, among other countries, on a 24/7 basis, ensuring security and deterrence for its member states. Those F16 in the cover photo, that I generated in MidJourney, if the photo was real they would not be Slovenian Jets.

Adriatic Strike

• Annual NATO Exercise: Adriatic Strike is an annual multinational live-fly Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) exercise hosted by Slovenia. It focuses on enhancing the skills of JTACs in coordinating air support with ground operations, crucial for NATO's air-land integration and effectiveness in operations. Conducted 11 times so far.
• Diverse Participation: The exercise brings together participants from numerous NATO Allied and partner nations, with the 2022 edition, for instance, including nearly 650 participants from 25 countries. It involves a variety of aircraft, including fighters, helicopters, and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), showcasing NATO's capability to operate with diverse military equipment.
• Training and Preparedness: Conducted in various Slovenian locations, Adriatic Strike provides realistic and complex training scenarios. This exercise is vital for maintaining readiness, ensuring that both aircrews and JTACs can perform under simulated combat conditions, thereby enhancing NATO's collective defense and deterrence posture.
• Explore more: https://www.slovenskavojska.si/en/mission-statement/10th-multinational-military-exercise-adriatic-strike-2022/

Last Active Engagements

Slovenia has actively contributed to NATO and international missions, including:

• Peacekeeping in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Slovenian troops have been actively involved in peacekeeping missions in Bosnia and Herzegovina (49th military contingent since April 2024), contributing to the region's stabilization. I'm not sure how many now, but in April 2010, Slovenia had 27 troops deployed in the EUFOR Althea mission.
• Kosovo (KFOR): Supporting peacekeeping operations in a region critical to Slovenia’s security interests.
• Afghanistan (2003–2021): Contributions to NATO’s ISAF and Resolute Support missions.
• Baltics (Enhanced Forward Presence): Deployed an infantry reconnaissance platoon, a Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) team, and support elements to NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence in Latvia.?
• Mali (EUTM): Participated in the EU Training Mission until its mandate ended in 2024.

Ukraine and the Russia-Ukraine War

• Military Aid: Slovenia has provided significant military aid to Ukraine, including 28 modernized M-55S Main battle tanks in October 2022,?Bramor C4EYE Surveillance drones, and 35 M80A infantry fighting vehicles.
• Humanitarian Assistance: Financial and logistical support for displaced Ukrainians.
• Economic Assistance: Slovenia has pledged additional financial aid, including five million euros for humanitarian aid and reconstruction in Ukraine in 2024, as well as contributions to the "Grain from Ukraine" program aimed at mitigating the war's impact on global food security.
• Policy Stance: Slovenia has been vocal in its support for Ukraine, aligning with NATO’s stance on deterring Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. They are currently opposed to Ukraine joining NATO.
• Impact on Slovenia: The conflict has reinforced Slovenia's commitment to modernizing its defense capabilities and increasing interoperability with NATO.

Current Military Size

• Active Personnel: Approximately 7,000 active personnel, supported by 1,500 reservists, will grow to 10,000 by 2040.
• Professional Force: Slovenia operates an entirely professional military with no conscription.
• Population Ratio: 3.4 military personnel per 1,000 inhabitants.

Notable Weapon Systems

M-55S Main Battle Tank

• Overview: Upgraded version of the Soviet-era T-55 tank, modernized in collaboration with Israel's Elbit Systems.
• Armament: Replaced the original 100mm gun with a NATO-standard 105mm L7 cannon.
• Protection: Equipped with advanced explosive reactive armor (ERA).
• Fire Control: Integrated a digital ballistic computer and advanced day-night sights.
• Significance: Reflects Slovenia's initiative to upgrade legacy equipment for modern battlefield requirements.
• Current Status: 28 M-55S tanks were donated to Ukraine in October 2022 as part of a military aid package.

Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV)

• Overview: A multi-role armored vehicle developed by Oshkosh Defense, designed to replace the aging Humvee fleet.
• Initial Order: 38 JLTVs ordered in 2018, deliveries began in May 2021.
• Additional Orders: Total increased to 161 vehicles, with the latest batch delivered in January 2024.
• Mobility: Enhanced off-road capabilities for diverse terrains.
• Protection: Advanced armor systems for superior crew safety.
• Armament: Integrated SPIKE LR anti-tank guided missiles.
• Significance: Demonstrates Slovenia’s commitment to modernizing ground forces and enhancing NATO interoperability.

IRIS-T SLM Surface-to-Air Missile System

• Overview: A medium-range air defense system developed by Germany's Diehl Defence.
• Contract Signing: In January 2024, Slovenia signed a €147 million contract for one fire unit.
• Components: Includes radar, a tactical operations center, four missile launchers, and IRIS-T SL guided missiles.
• Range: Effective engagement at medium ranges.
• Mobility: Highly mobile components for rapid deployment.
• Integration: Compatible with NATO air defense networks.
• Significance: Enhances Slovenia’s air defense capabilities and aligns with NATO’s integrated air and missile defense strategy.

Patrol Boat Triglav

• Overview: A Svetlyak-class multipurpose patrol vessel acquired from Russia in 2011 as part of debt repayment.
• Roles: Maritime patrol, search and rescue, and diver support operations.
• Armament: Equipped with a 30mm AK-306 gun, 14.5mm machine guns, and provisions for anti-ship missiles.
• Humanitarian Missions: Participated in Italy’s Mare Nostrum and the EU’s Operation Sophia for refugee rescue and maritime security.
• Significance: Enhances Slovenia's maritime operational capabilities, contributing to regional security and humanitarian efforts.

Key Initiatives and Future Commitments

Slovenia is focused on modernization and enhancing interoperability with NATO forces. Major projects include:

• Cyber Defense Capabilities: Investment in cyber defense capabilities, aligning with NATO’s Cyber Defence Pledge, which involves both infrastructure and personnel training to combat cyber threats, a growing area of defense spending.
• Research and Development (R&D): Emphasis on R&D, particularly through cooperation with domestic defense companies like C-Astral Aerospace for UAV technology or Pipistrel Aircraft for eco-friendly military aviation. This not only increases defense spending but also promotes technological sovereignty and innovation within NATO.
• Personnel Increase: Plans to almost double the number of members in the Slovenian Armed Forces (SAF) to 10,000 by 2040. This includes recruitment drives, better compensation, and improved living and working conditions for servicemen and women.
• Equipment Upgrades: Significant investments in modernizing military hardware, including the acquisition of new vehicles, weapons systems, and technology upgrades. For instance, Slovenia has been involved in projects like the development of the Short-Range Air Defense (SHORAD) turret for JLTV by Valhalla Turrets , showcasing local defense industry capabilities.

Key Defense Companies

Arex Defense

• Specialization: Production of innovative small arms, ammunition, and tactical equipment.
• Revenue: Estimated €15 million annually.
• Employees: Approximately 100 personnel.
• Relevance: A major supplier for Slovenian Armed Forces and international buyers, contributing to NATO’s armament needs with cost-effective and innovative solutions.
• Website: AREX d.o.o.

Valhalla Turrets

• Specialization: Development of weapon stations and turrets for military vehicles.
• Revenue: Not publicly specified, but they've secured contracts with the Slovenian Army.
• Employees: around 50
• Relevance: Key player in providing defense solutions for vehicle-mounted weapon systems.
• Website: www.valhallaturrets.com

C-Astral Aerospace

• Specialization: UAV systems, particularly for reconnaissance and surveillance.
• Revenue: €5.13 million
• Employees: around 50
• Acquisition: In April 2019, C-ASTRAL was acquired by Terra Drone Corporation , a Japanese company specializing in drone and aerial solutions.
• Relevance: Notable for their Bramor series drones, used in various military and civilian applications globally.
• Battle Test: The company supplied its Bramor C4EYE unmanned aerial systems (also known as Belin drones) to Ukrainian forces. These unarmed drones are primarily used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. The exact number of units delivered and the shipment dates have not been publicly disclosed.
• Website: www.c-astral.com

DAT - CON Slovenia

• Specialization: System integration, electronics, special electronics for defense, measuring, and multimedia equipment. Known for its state border monitoring system.
• Revenue: Exact revenue not disclosed; however, they are involved in significant defense projects.
• Employees: around 100
• Relevance: Plays crucial in providing electronic solutions for defense applications.
• Website: www.dat-con.si

Elaphe Propulsion Technologies Ltd.

• Specialization: Development of in-wheel electric propulsion systems for military and civilian vehicles.
• Revenue: Estimated €12 million annually, with strong growth expected due to global electrification trends.
• Employees: Around 80 personnel.
• Relevance: Supports NATO's green energy and hybrid technology goals, especially for stealth military operations.
• Website: Elaphe Propulsion Technologies

MIL Sistemika

• Specialization: Tactical command-and-control (C2) software and battlefield communication systems.
• Revenue: Estimated €5 million annually.
• Employees: Approximately 50 personnel.
• Relevance: Enhances operational coordination for NATO forces, especially in multinational exercises and peacekeeping missions.
• Website: MIL Sistemika

SkyLabs Inc--Idea Behind Innovation.

• Specialization: Design and manufacture advanced satellite technologies for secure communications and space missions. They focus on fault-tolerant avionics for satellites. First Slovenian company to launch satellites into orbit.
• Revenue: Estimated €7 million annually.
• Employees: Around 50 personnel.
• Relevance: Supports NATO’s growing reliance on space-based technologies for intelligence, communication, and surveillance.
• Website: Skylabs

Pipistrel Aircraft

• Specialization: Manufacturing light and electric aircraft and UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles). First type-certified electric aircraft.
• Revenue: Approximately €35 million annually.
• Employees: Around 500 personnel.
• Relevance: Provides sustainable and efficient aerial solutions for NATO operations, particularly in training and reconnaissance roles.
• Website: Pipistrel

BIJOL

• Specialization: designing and manufacturing heavy-duty forestry, construction, and transport vehicles. Known for its robust and innovative solutions, Bijol has established a strong reputation in the industry for producing durable and versatile machinery tailored to demanding environments.
• Key Products: Forestry Equipment, some are even remotely operated and heavy-duty construction vehicles optimized for challenging construction and transport tasks.
• Revenue: €38.1 million
• Size: around 74 people
• Website: Bijol d.o.o.

Non-Commerical Entities

SI-CERT, Slovenian National Computer Emergency Response Team

? Role: National cybersecurity incident response center for Slovenia.

? Website: SI-CERT

Digital Innovation Hub Slovenia (DIH)

• Focus: Enhancing digital competencies in robotics, IoT, cyber-physical systems, and cybersecurity.
• Directed by Katja Mohar Bastar

? Website: DIH Slovenia

Fascinating Facts About the Slovenian Military+ a bonus

1. A Peaceful Independence: Slovenia’s Ten-Day War in 1991 resulted in independence from Yugoslavia with minimal casualties, making it one of the least violent separations in the Balkans.
2. Gender Equality: Slovenia has one of the highest percentages of women serving in the military among NATO members. In 2018 was the first NATO country with a female Chief of Staff (Maj General).
3. Focus on Cyber Defense: Slovenia prioritizes cybersecurity, with initiatives to protect NATO networks and combat hybrid threats.
4. No Navy, Strategic Partnerships: As a landlocked country, Slovenia collaborates with allies for maritime security, particularly in the Adriatic Sea.
5. Bonus: They have three official versions of Santa Claus. https://99percentinvisible.org/episode/the-three-santas-of-slovenia/