The first of the Leopard tanks, which Germany donated to the Czech Republic for military aid to Ukraine, was taken over by the Czech army last December. In total, the Czech Republic received 14 older Leopard 2A4 battle tanks and one recovery vehicle, which, according to Šulec, should arrive next year.
In addition to the machines themselves, the Czech army will also receive spare parts, ammunition and three-year service support, including training of soldiers. According to earlier information, the price of the gift is 3.85 billion crowns.
In his speech, Šulc highlighted the modernization projects of the Czech army, including the purchase of Swedish CV90 infantry fighting vehicles or American F-35 aircraft. He also recalled negotiations with Germany to join the purchase of Leopard 2A8s.
“In difficult times and crises, the Czech Republic can rely primarily on itself and its closest allies in the North Atlantic Alliance, this means using resources and support to erase the defense debt that has arisen over the past decades,” he said. He added that it is necessary to invest in defense smartly and efficiently.
Image: The Czech army has the first Leopard tank from Germany
Defense Minister Jana Černochová took over the first of the Leopard 2A4 tanks that Germany donated to the Czech Republic as compensation for the tanks sent to Ukraine. Take a look at the new addition to the 73rd Tank Battalion in Práslavic.
In the following year, according to Šulek, the Czech army has a huge amount of work to do in introducing new weapon systems and proving to the public that investments in defense are effective and that the money is being used meaningfully. According to him, recruitment and supplies are also important. “The acquisition of systems is useless without their introduction, without sufficient ammunition and trained personnel,” he said. The aim of the department is also to improve working conditions, digitize, eliminate bureaucracy, communicate better or introduce new technologies such as artificial intelligence, Šulc added.
