Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has announced that the Czech government has given the green light to purchase 24 F-35A fighter aircraft. The move is aimed at enhancing the country’s military capabilities and improving cooperation with NATO allies.
Fiala stated that the first jet will be available in 2029, with the remaining 23 to follow by 2035. He praised the F-35 as an effective solution that has a longer lifespan than other aircraft.
Defence Minister Jana Cernochova revealed that the state will pay 150 billion crowns ($6.47 billion) by 2034, which includes 44 billion for base upgrades in Czechia, fuel, staff training, and taxes.
In June, the US State Department approved the sale of F-35 jets, ammunition, and associated equipment to the Czech Republic. The country intends to replace its leased Gripen fighters from Saab in Sweden.
