Major General Petr Čepelka, the Commander of the Air Forces of the Army of the Czech Republic, gave an interview to Czech media Irozhlas, in which he outlined a significant modernization plan for the Czech Republic Air Force.
The plan, anticipated to worth tens of billions of crowns, include new helicopters, transport aircraft, and supersonic fighter jets.
Delivery of UH-1Y Venom and AH-1Z Viper Helicopters
The plan for the delivery of eight multipurpose UH-1Y Venom and four AH-1Z Viper combat helicopters from the United States in May and June remains unchanged. These helicopters will undergo military tests before the intensive flight training for Czech crews begins in July-August.
Phasing out Russian-made Helicopters
With the arrival of the new helicopters, the Russian-made Mi-24 and Mi-35 helicopters currently in operation will be phased out. However, the modernized Mi-171Š helicopters, which primarily ensure the transport capacity for the Czech army, will continue to be operated.
The army is considering Boeing CH-47F Chinook helicopters as a future replacement for the Mi-171Š helicopters. These helicopters have the capability to transport light attack vehicles, aligning with the army’s long-term strategy. While the exact model is yet to be decided, a similar platform to the Chinook is preferred.
Acquisition of Fifth-Generation Aircraft
Regarding the acquisition of new supersonic aircraft, Major General Čepelka remains confident that the Czech Republic will join other NATO countries in operating fifth-generation aircraft post-2035. The inter-ministerial negotiation team is expected to provide a detailed report by the end of September, outlining what the acquisition of such aircraft would entail for the country.
While plans for the new generation of aircraft are underway, negotiations to extend the operation of SAAB JAS-39 Gripen aircraft are ongoing. The Gripen aircraft have proven satisfactory, fulfilling all current requirements. The Czech Air Force aims to continue operating these aircraft until the arrival of the fifth-generation Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II aircraft.
Acquisition of Medium Transport Aircraft
In addition to the new helicopters and fighter jets, the acquisition of medium transport aircraft is also on the cards. The Embraer C-390 Millenium is currently the preferred model, chosen for its size, operational cost, and compatibility with existing infrastructure in the Czech Republic. The final decision will be made after considering all the important circumstances affecting this acquisition.
Modernization Paid for by Donations
The modernization efforts will be funded primarily through donations, including a financial gift from the United States to the Czech Republic for supporting Ukraine. This donation is expected to cover the entire modernization costs, ensuring the Czech Air Force can proceed with its plans without straining the national budget. However, Major General Čepelka emphasized the importance of securing domestic funding for the maintenance and operation of the new equipment.
Alongside the acquisition of new aircraft, the Czech Air Force is focusing on enhancing training programs for its pilots and technical staff. The goal is to ensure the operational readiness of the new equipment as soon as it is delivered. Collaborations with allied nations, such as the United States, are being pursued to facilitate this training. These programs will also focus on strengthening the interoperability of Czech forces with NATO allies.
