Ample Strike 2026 military exercise to take place in South Bohemia

The international military exercise Ample Strike 2026 is scheduled to take place from September 7 to September 17, 2026, with some activities extending to September 18. The exercise will involve nearly 600 soldiers, more than half of whom are participating from foreign nations. Key locations for the maneuvers include the Boletice Military Training Area, Bechyně, České Budějovice, and Náměšť nad Oslavou.

The training focuses on the coordination between air and ground forces, specifically involving 26 Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) teams from 19 different countries. Residents in South Bohemia should expect increased noise from Eurofighters, combat aircraft, and military helicopters. Flight training is primarily planned for weekdays between 9:00 and 23:00, though movements of equipment may occur outside these hours.

České Budějovice Airport has issued a warning that photographing military objects or their surroundings during the exercise is prohibited and may result in fines of up to 100,000 CZK. Exercise director Colonel Aleš Cápal stated that organizers aim to minimize noise pollution during nighttime hours.