Czech Republic has ordered 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks — deliveries will begin in 2028

1.34 billion euros for the latest tanks from Germany

The Czech Republic has officially signed a contract for the supply of 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks. The deal is worth about 1.34 billion euros. The agreement was signed between the Czech Ministry of Defense, the Federal Armaments Department of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and the manufacturer, KNDS Deutschland. This is one of the Czech Republic's largest defense orders in recent years and an important step in modernizing its ground forces.

Now the Czech army will have the most modern German armor.

Why Leopard 2A8 — and what it gives to the Czech Republic

Leopard 2A8 is the flagship version of the legendary tank, combining powerful protection, precise weapons and a new generation of digital "stuffing". It is compatible with NATO systems, easily integrated into common operations and maintained on a single logistics base with other countries of the bloc.

For the Czech Republic, this means: not just new tanks, but reaching the level of advanced European armies. Joint exercises, common tactics, common maintenance — everything works like clockwork.

Option for 14 additional machines — safety margin

The contract stipulates an option for the purchase of 14 more tanks. This is standard practice.: first, the main order, and then the decision on whether to expand the fleet. If the situation escalates or there is a need for a reinforced group, the Czech Republic will be able to quickly increase the number of combat vehicles without negotiations and new tenders.

This is not just a reserve, it is a strategic flexibility.

Deliveries from 2028 will take a long time, but inevitably

The first tanks will arrive in the Czech Republic no earlier than 2028. The time frame seems long, but you can't speed up the production of such complex systems. But you can be sure: each Leopard 2A8 will be assembled according to the latest requirements and checked before shipment.

For the army, this time is a chance to train crews, rebuild the infrastructure and bring the rear to the level of a new technical structure.

Sources

1. RIA Novosti — 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks for CZK 34.2 bn, deliveries 2028-2031
2. Amalantra.ru — Price & spec details: EuroTrophy APS, Czech-specific kit
3. RIA Novosti — Czech Government approves purchase, integration timeline
4. Gazeta.ru — Contract value & strategic importance for Czech Army
5. Interfax — Deal confirmed, option for further tank expansion
6. Euronews — Prague green-lights €1.4 bn order of 44 Leopard tanks from Germany

Czech Republic bought British Jackal 3 jeeps for special forces instead of old Land Rovers

Supacat has sold its cars outside the UK for the first time

The British engineering company Supacat has signed its first export contract: 18 highly mobile HMT Mk3 Extenda vehicles will leave for the Czech Republic. This is important not only for the army, but also for the company itself — before that, its legendary Jeeps, known in the UK as the Jackal 3 Extenda, served only in the British military. Now they will appear for the first time in a NATO ally.

For the Czech Republic, this is a step towards modernization, and for Supacat, it is the beginning of entering the international market.

Jackal 3 Extenda — what it can do and what is better than the old Jeeps

The Jackal 3 Extenda is not just an off—road vehicle. It is a highly mobile combat platform designed to operate in difficult conditions: mud, snow, rough terrain. It is fast, lightweight, but at the same time durable and can carry a serious load.

Compared to the outdated Land Rovers currently in service, it gives the Czech military more speed, maneuverability, and the ability to install weapons and electronics. The machine can be easily transported by helicopter or transport aircraft, ideal for quick operations.

Who will get the cars — and why would the Czech special forces need such equipment?

All 18 vehicles will go to the 601st Special Forces Group, an elite unit of the Czech Army. These are their main rapid reaction forces, responsible for reconnaissance, sabotage, rear-line attacks and rescue operations. For such tasks, you need a technique that will not let you down at the most critical moment.

Jackal 3 will allow them to quickly penetrate into hard-to-reach areas, remain unnoticed and at the same time have fire cover.

Not just a transport, but a platform for weapons and intelligence

Machine guns, grenade launchers, ATGMs, electronic warfare systems and reconnaissance modules can be installed on these vehicles. That is, the same jeep can be a scout, a fire support, and a tow truck.

For the 601st Group, this is not just a replacement of equipment, but an increase in combat flexibility. Now they will be able to act further, faster and stronger.

Sources

1. Army Recognition — Czech Special Forces acquire 18 British Supacat HMT Extenda vehicles
2. SSB Crack — Czech MoD confirms Supacat Mk3 Extenda procurement for special ops
3. Supacat Official — HMT Mk3 Extenda vehicle details
4. CZ Defence — Czech special forces vehicle modernization
5. European Security & Defence — Czechs order HMT Mk3 Extendas
6. YouTube — Supacat HMT Extenda video overview
7. Supacat News — MOD signs contract for 53 Jackal Extendas
8. Wikipedia — List of military equipment of the Czech Army
9. ESD PDF — European Security & Defence archive

Czech Republic to double tank fleet by purchasing 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks worth 1.3 billion euros

The Czech Republic has approved a major deal for the purchase of 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks from Germany. The initial contract, worth about 1.3 billion euros, including VAT, covers the supply of both command and combat vehicles. These tanks are equipped with modern logistics systems, integrated self-defense and mine protection systems, as well as a set of spare parts and technical documentation.

An additional 60 million euros were allocated for the so—called "Bohemization" of tanks, which includes the integration of Czech national features - C4ISTAR communication systems, camouflage elements, military identification marks and compatible machine guns.

Delivery of the first batch of tanks is expected in 2028, and completion of deliveries is scheduled for 2031. The contract also provides for the supply of ammunition for testing during this period.

In the future, the Czech Republic plans to expand the fleet to 61-77 Leopard 2A8 tanks, including repair and evacuation, bridge, engineering and training versions.

This step will significantly strengthen the defense capability of the Czech Republic and will allow it to provide a modern level of armament in the tank forces.

The Czech Republic will receive the first CV90 infantry fighting vehicle on August 28 at a ceremony in Sweden

The first CV90 infantry fighting vehicle for the Czech Republic will be officially delivered on August 28. The ceremony will take place at the production site of BAE Systems Hägglunds in the Swedish city of Ernskoldsvik.

The event will be held in the presence of Czech Defense Minister Jana Chernokhova and Swedish Defense Minister Paul Johnson. The ceremony will also be attended by the heads and specialists of the design and production teams of BAE Systems Hägglunds, who participated in the implementation of the contract.

The delivery of the first vehicle marks an important milestone in the agreement between the Czech Republic and BAE Systems for the supply of 249 CV90 infantry fighting vehicles. This contract is part of a large-scale modernization program for the Czech Army's ground forces.

Czech Republic to strengthen air defense: buys 24 MARS combat vehicles with RBS 70 NG missiles

MARS

The Czech Republic is taking a serious step towards strengthening its air defense — the country has ordered 24 MARS (Mobile Artillery Rocket System) combat vehicles equipped with modern RBS 70 NG anti-aircraft missiles. This is not just a replacement of old equipment, but a real modernization aimed at combating the threats of modern times — drones, helicopters and low-flying targets.

The MARS system, developed by the Swedish company Saab, is a mobile complex on a wheeled chassis that quickly turns around, shoots and leaves the position. Instead of artillery, there are launchers for RBS 70 NG, light but very accurate laser—guided missiles. They are ideal for short and medium range damage.

The RBS 70 NG is no longer just an old anti—aircraft gun. It is a digital, interference-proof system capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 9 km. And the main thing is to react quickly to sudden threats, for example, when a drone appears from behind a hill and flies directly to the base.

For the Czech Republic, which is actively modernizing its army and strengthening its defense in the face of an unstable situation in Europe, such an order is a logical and timely move. Now the Czech troops will have a modern, mobile and effective shield against air attacks — and all this on wheels, without being tied to stationary objects.

The Czech Republic threatened France: "Either fix the Caesars, or we won't pay!"

 

Military-technical relations between the Czech Republic and France have sharply cooled — Prague has officially threatened to suspend payments to the French-German defense company KNDS, which is to supply the Czech Republic with 62 modern Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzers. The reason? These Caesars, one after the other, fail critical checks and generally behave like moody sports cars: they look cool, but they break down at the most inopportune moment.

The Czech Ministry of Defense is no longer just unhappy, it is seriously concerned. The chief weapons officer, Lubor Koudelka, sent an official letter to KNDS with a harsh ultimatum: "Deal with the problems, and quickly." The document clearly states that until the howitzers are ready for military trials, the money will not flow further.

What's wrong with these guns? According to media reports and sources in the army, we are talking about several serious shoals.:

- Problems with chassis reliability, especially off—road. The car must be mobile, but it gets stuck or stalls.

- Violations in the operation of the guidance and fire control system — and this is critical for the accuracy of shooting.

- Notes on crew protection and tightness of compartments — especially important in conditions of possible use of weapons of mass destruction.

- Delays in the delivery of spare parts and technical documentation.

This is especially disappointing because the Czech Republic was counting on Caesar as the basis of new artillery power. These howitzers are wheeled, deploy quickly, can fire at 40+ km, and are ideal for mobile warfare. The contract was signed on a large scale: almost 1.5 billion euros, one of the largest in the history of the Czech military—industrial complex. And now everything can go downhill.

KNDS, by the way, is a joint structure where the French Nexter and the German Krauss-Maffei Wegmann work together. But the responsibility for Caesar lies mainly with the French. And they, to put it mildly, do not have the best record in terms of the timing and quality of supplies of such equipment. The same thing happened, for example, in other countries — Belgium and Denmark, which also complained about delays.

Now the Czech Republic demands: either to urgently refine the systems, or to postpone the deadlines, or — the worst option — to terminate the contract. Although the latter is unlikely: there are not many alternatives to Caesar on the market right now, and there is less and less time left before a complete rearmament.

KNDS has already stated that it is working to eliminate the comments. But the Czechs are running out of patience. If the vehicles do not pass full—fledged tests with the participation of combat crews by the end of the year, payments can be frozen and even fines can be expected.

Simply put: France has received a warning. It's not that the Czech Republic wants to give up the Caesars — it really wants them. But only if they work. In the meantime, get comments, get corrected, and don't forget about deadlines.

The Czech Republic will purchase 24 mobile air defense systems based on the MARS 4x4 armored platform with the M-SHORAD system

The Czech Ministry of Defense has confirmed plans to purchase 24 mobile air defense vehicles equipped with the M-SHORAD (Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense) system. These vehicles will be built on the basis of the Czech MARS 4x4 armored platform, which will provide high mobility and protection in modern combat conditions.

Each vehicle will be equipped with a remote-controlled combat module with integrated three Swedish-made SAAB RBS 70 anti-aircraft missile launchers. This configuration will significantly increase the effectiveness of short-range air defense, ensuring the protection of troops and facilities from aerial threats, including drones and low-flying aircraft.

The RBS 70 system is known for its accuracy and reliability, and its integration into a mobile combat module based on the MARS 4x4 platform will allow the Czech armed forces to quickly respond to threats and effectively maneuver on the battlefield.

SVOS  MARS 4x4 

International exercises in Switzerland on joint measurements of radioactivity using helicopters

International exercises organized by the Federal Office of Civil Defense (FOPS) are taking place in Switzerland this week. They are attended by experts from France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Lithuania and Switzerland itself. The main objective of the exercise is to develop joint methods for rapid and effective measurement of radioactivity in large areas using helicopters.

The use of helicopters makes it possible to quickly survey vast areas, which is especially important in case of emergencies related to radioactive contamination. The joint efforts of international teams contribute to the exchange of experience, professional development and improved coordination in responding to potential radiation threats.

Rheinmetall unveiled a new configuration of the Boxer 8x8 infantry fighting vehicle with Turra 30 V10 turret at IDET 2025

 Presented at IDET 2025 in Brno, Czech Republic, Rheinmetall has unveiled a new infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) configuration for its Boxer 8x8 armored vehicle platform, equipped with a Turra 30 V10 remote-controlled turret developed by the Slovak defense company EVPU. 

This new demonstrator underscores Rheinmetall's commitment to adapting the Boxer to modern combat requirements by combining a battle-proven platform with a lethal modular weapon system. Although this version is not targeted at the Czech or Slovak armies, which operate the Pandur and Patria AMV XP respectively, this version demonstrates its export potential for future customers looking for advanced multi-purpose ground systems.

The Czech company LPP Holding has started mass production of attack UAVs of the MTS series for the Armed Forces of Ukraine

 The Czech company LPP Holding has started mass production and has already supplied the Armed Forces with several dozen new attack UAVs of the MTS series, controlled by AI.

Drones move autonomously even in conditions of strong electronic warfare and navigate through the camera using offline maps without using GPS.

The MTS series includes three types of drones:

the MTS05 is equipped with an electric motor and has a radius of several tens of kilometers.; 

MTS25 – equipped with an internal combustion engine, has a radius of hundreds of km;

MTS40 – has a powerful internal combustion engine, capable of carrying a warhead up to 12 kg.

Drones can be equipped with cumulative, high-explosive fragmentation and anti-tank thermobaric warheads of various sizes.

A drone from the MTS series

Motor Jikov Group enters the arms market: production of artillery shells in the Czech Republic

 

The Czech automotive and foundry company Motor Jikov Group, based in Ceske Budejovice, has announced its ambitious plans to enter the defense industry market. The company is negotiating with two major players in the defense sector, the STV Group and the Czechoslovak Group, to launch the production of shell casings for artillery shells. This step could significantly strengthen the Czech Republic's position as one of the key arms manufacturers in Europe.

Expanding the competencies of Motor Jikov Group

Motor Jikov Group has traditionally specialized in the automotive and foundry industries, offering high-quality metal components for various industries. However, the growing demand for defense products has prompted the company to consider new business opportunities. The production of shell casings for artillery shells will be the first step for the company in the field of armaments.

The importance of partnership with STV Group and Czechoslovak Group

STV Group and Czechoslovak Group are two of the most influential Czech defense companies engaged in the development and production of a wide range of military equipment and ammunition. Cooperation with these companies will allow Motor Jikov Group to gain access to advanced technologies and production standards necessary for the production of high-quality sleeves. It will also ensure the company's stable demand for products thanks to its partners' extensive supply networks.

Why shell casings for artillery shells?

Shell casings are an essential element of artillery ammunition, ensuring their reliability and effectiveness. Modern conflicts have significantly increased the demand for ammunition, which creates favorable conditions for new players to enter this market. Motor Jikov Group plans to use its expertise in metallurgy and precision casting to produce high-quality sleeves that meet international standards.

Prospects for the Czech defense industry

Motor Jikov Group's entry into the arms market highlights the growing role of the private sector in the development of the Czech defense industry. An increase in domestic ammunition production will not only meet domestic needs, but also strengthen the Czech Republic's position as an arms exporter. This is especially important against the background of the current geopolitical situation, when many countries are seeking to diversify their sources of military supplies.

Challenges and opportunities

Despite the prospects, entering the arms market is associated with a number of challenges. The company needs to adapt its production facilities, train its staff, and be certified to work with defense products. However, successfully overcoming these barriers will open up new horizons for the Motor Jikov Group, including the opportunity to expand its product range and enter the international market.

Czech Republic begins testing Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzers in France

 The Czech Republic is advancing artillery modernization with the first tests of the Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzer in France.

Designed to meet the specific operational requirements of Prague, the system is undergoing rigorous testing before being officially integrated into the Czech armed forces. This assessment, conducted at a production facility in France, marks the beginning of a process that will include live firing tests before the first units are delivered to the Czech Republic by March 2025. 

The program aims to equip the Czech Army with 62 Caesar 8x8 howitzers by the end of 2026 to enhance artillery capabilities and interoperability with NATO.

Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzer