Poland and Slovakia have signed a letter of intent to jointly produce ammunition and collaborate on armored vehicle, tank, and air defense procurement. The agreement, announced Tuesday in Warsaw, aims to enhance defense cooperation between the two nations. Slovak Deputy Prime Minister Robert Kaliňák stated that Slovakia is considering BAE Systems Hägglunds’ CV90120 and KNDS’ Leopard 2A8 tanks for its next-generation fleet. The deal underscores Central Europe’s growing focus on military modernization and regional defense partnerships. Poland and Slovakia seek to boost production capabilities and strengthen NATO’s eastern flank. Original news
Category: Slovakia
Slovakia Finalizes €560 Million Deal for Israeli Barak MX Air Defense System
Slovakia has signed a €560 million ($583 million) agreement to acquire the Israeli-made Barak MX air defense system, marking the largest defense deal between the two nations. Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the Barak MX provides protection against threats such as ballistic missiles, UAVs, and cruise missiles, with interceptors boasting a range of up to 150 kilometers. Israeli officials, including Defense Ministry Director General Eyal Zamir, praised the deal as a milestone in enhancing Slovakia’s defense capabilities and meeting NATO standards. This purchase adds to Slovakia’s recent acquisitions of Israeli defense technology, such as Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles and […]
Slovakia to purchase Israel’s Barak MX air defense system for €560 million
The Slovak Defense Ministry announced the purchase of the Barak MX air defense system from Israel for €560 million, marking a significant boost to its defense capabilities. This is Israel’s third sale of the system, following agreements with Cyprus and Azerbaijan. Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries, the Barak MX counters a range of threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles. The deal is seen as a “landmark” step in bolstering Slovakia’s air defense and strengthening defense ties between Israel and Slovakia, according to the Israel Ministry of Defense. This acquisition reflects Slovakia’s commitment to modernizing its military in […]
Slovakia buys Black Hawk helicopters, leaving Vipers up for grabs
Slovakia has announced the purchase of 12 second-hand, modernized UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters for its military, as confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Robert Kaliňák. Offered by Ace Aeronautics from the Helicopter Alliance group, the helicopters cost approximately €150 million ($158 million) without weapons. Manufactured by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin subsidiary, the Black Hawks were chosen over Bell’s Viper helicopters, which Slovakia opted not to procure. Ukraine, which has lobbied for Vipers for nearly two years, may now intensify efforts to secure the aircraft following Slovakia’s decision. This purchase reflects Slovakia’s focus on upgrading its military capabilities with […]
Slovakia spends 2.2% of GDP on defence in 2024
Slovakia is set to increase its defense budget from 2024 to 2029, exceeding NATO’s 2% GDP target in response to European security challenges. Planned investments include CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, main battle tanks, and upgraded F-16V fighter jets. Defense spending is projected to peak at 2.75% of GDP by 2029, highlighting Slovakia’s commitment to military modernization. This surge in funding reflects the country’s strategic focus on strengthening its defense capabilities. The initiative aligns with NATO’s collective defense goals amid a changing security landscape. Original news
Aero Vodochody confident of further export deals as L-39NG is rebranded Skyfox
Aero Vodochody has renamed its L-39NG jet trainer as the L-39 Skyfox, aiming to boost sales to customers like Vietnam and Hungary. CEO Viktor Sotona is optimistic about expanding beyond the current 28 aircraft orders, focusing on legacy L-39 operators in Africa and NATO countries. Though a deal with Slovakia seems logical, the country has chosen the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 as its main combat aircraft. Aero Vodochody is also growing its aerostructures business, signing a memorandum of understanding with Embraer to enhance cooperation on the C-390 program. Additionally, the company is increasing production for Spirit AeroSystems and other […]