Defence minister confirms Czech Army cannot sell L-159 jets to Ukraine

Czech Defence Minister Jaromír Zůna (SPD) has reiterated that the Czech Armed Forces cannot sell four L-159 aircraft to Ukraine. He said the stance is based on last year’s findings by the Supreme Audit Office (NKÚ) and an expert opinion from the Chief of the General Staff, Karel Řehka.

Comments by President Petr Pavel on Thursday suggested that, according to earlier assessments by the military, the sale of four L-159 jets to Ukraine would not undermine Czech defence capabilities. During a visit to Ukraine last week, Pavel spoke about the possibility of providing the country with several smaller aircraft for defence against drones.

The governing coalition later rejected the sale of the aircraft saying that the army needs the planes.

Ukraine could potentially obtain Czech-made L-39 Skyfox aircraft, which would meet its needs, but would likely have to wait until manufacturer Aero Vodochody produces them.