The Czech Republic plans to transfer fighter jets with specific capabilities to intercept and shoot down Russian drones to Ukraine in the near future.
This news was announced at the Ukrainian President’s meeting in Kiev on January 16. Volodymyr ZelenskyThis was confirmed by Czech President Petr Pavel during an official meeting with .
At a joint press conference, President Pavel said Prague had the means to act in the short term. He said the Czech Republic “can provide several medium-sized fighter jets that are extremely effective against drones,” and expressed hope that the transfer would be swift and successful.
Background to industry collaborations and programs
In 2023, the Czech military-industrial complex has already prepared a cooperation project with Ukraine for joint production of the F/A-259 aircraft developed by Aero Vodochody. This model is a direct development of the L-159 ALCA, a training and light attack aircraft that made its first flight in August 1997.
F/A-259 operational capabilities
The F/A-259 is classified as a multi-purpose attack aircraft and is designed to operate on unmaintained runways. This is an important feature in conflict environments with limited infrastructure. This model is equipped with seven hardpoints that can mount weapons and sensors, allowing it to flexibly respond to various mounting configurations.
It can be optionally equipped with an active electronically scanned (AESA) radar, greatly improving the detection and engagement capabilities of aerial targets, including small and medium-sized drones. The design also takes into account the possibility of modifying or replacing the system according to customer-specific requirements.
The transfer of these aircraft to Ukraine strengthens military cooperation between Prague and Kiev and is part of a broader European effort to support Ukraine’s air defense capabilities in the face of the intensive use of drones in the conflict.
Source and image: Aero Vodochody | X @prezidentpavel | Militarnyi. This content was created with the help of AI and has been reviewed by our editorial staff.
