Czech Republic modernizes military with major equipment acquisitions

The Czech Republic is undergoing a significant decade of military modernization through several large-scale procurement programs. Key acquisitions include 24 F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin and 246 CV90 armored vehicles from BAE Systems Hägglunds, with these two contracts alone expected to exceed 200 billion CZK.

While much of this advanced equipment will not be fully integrated into the Czech Armed Forces until after 2030, some progress is visible. The military has already received one of two Embraer C-390 transport aircraft, with a second expected next year. Additionally, the acquisition of AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom helicopters is underway to replace aging Russian Mi-24 models.

Other major projects include the purchase of 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks in coordination with Germany, expected by 2031, and CV90 vehicles by 2030. However, some timelines have faced delays, such as the Caesar self-propelled howitzers, which are now scheduled for full deployment in 2028 due to ongoing military testing.