PRAGUE (AP) – The Czech Republic government on Monday signed a deal with the United States to acquire 24 American-made F-35 fighter jets as part of a deal worth about 150 billion Czech crowns ($6.6 billion). signed. Czech army.
Czech Defense Minister Jana Chernochova and U.S. Ambassador Bijan Sabet signed a memorandum of understanding regarding the agreement. According to the Czech Ministry of Defense, the Czech side also signed an offer and acceptance letter, which is the final step in completing the government-to-government contract.
“By signing this intergovernmental agreement, we are entering a new era for our country and our armed forces,” Chernokhova said.
The Czech government approved the agreement in September.
The first of the 24 fighter jets will be delivered in 2031, with the remainder scheduled for delivery by 2035. The American aircraft will replace the 14 Swedish-made JAS-39 Gripen fighters currently in use by the Czech military.
Previously, Chernokhova said the Czech Republic would pay the United States about $5 billion for aircraft, pilot training, ammunition and other costs. The remaining funds will go towards renovating, fueling and training personnel at Kaslav Air Base in the central Czech Republic, she said.
“The F-35 is the only system that can help us succeed on the battlefield of the future and, if necessary, work with our allies to effectively defend ourselves from attack.” Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Karel Reka said.
The Czech Foreign Ministry has been negotiating an agreement with the United States for more than a year during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
