Slovakia Strengthens Defense with New Air Systems from Israel

Slovakia's government approved the purchase of six mobile air defence systems from Israel for 554.3 million euros. Additionally, it will acquire over 1,300 terrain vehicles with the Czech Republic, totaling 708.3 million euros. This move aims to bolster Slovakia's air defence, especially after donating its S-300 system to Ukraine.

Slovakia's government has greenlit plans to acquire six mobile air defence systems from Israel at a cost of 554.3 million euros. This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen the NATO member state's airspace protection.

The government also sanctioned the acquisition of more than 1,300 6x6 and 8x8 heavy terrain vehicles in collaboration with the Czech Republic. The deal, worth 708.3 million euros, aims to replace aging military trucks.

Amid the ongoing conflict in neighboring Ukraine and heightened NATO efforts to fortify its eastern flank, Slovakia is prioritizing its defence capabilities. Defence Minister Robert Kalinak emphasized the need to focus on air defence. Last month, Slovakia received the first two of 14 new F-16 fighter jets, marking another step in its military upgrade.

The defence ministry noted that Slovakia's current medium-range 2K12 KUB system is nearing the end of its life cycle. The current administration has criticized the previous government's decision to donate the S-300 air defence system to Ukraine, arguing it diminished national air defence capabilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)