Czech government approves F-35A Lightning II purchase

The Czech Government has approved the acquisition of 24 F-35 Lightning II fighters. The contract, which also includes ground equipment, weapons package and a simulator, has a total value of USD 4,6 billion (106 billion Czech Crowns) with deliveries planned from 2031.

Caslav air base will be the main operating base for the F-35s and for that reason the base will be renovated for a total of USD 1,9 billion (44 billion Czech Crowns).

The decision to acquire the F-35s means that the fourteen leased Saab JAS39 Gripens, twelve JAS39C single-seat and two JAS39D two-seat fighters, need to serve until 2035, when the transition to the F-35 is due to be completed.

Defense minister Jana Černochová said “The cost is a high price to pay but insisted it represents just 7.5% of upcoming defense spending between 2024 and 2034. Other projects such as the recapitalization of army mechanized brigades will not be threatened by the F-35 purchase. The Government already has fourteen industrial cooperation projects ready for the Czech industry following negotiations with Lockheed Martin and engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney. They include the possibility of direct involvement in the global supply chain for F-35 aircraft”.

Photo (just illustrative): Lockheed Martin