Defense minister asking for budget increase in 2025

Defence Minister Jana Černochová wants a record CZK 169 billion for her ministry next year, she told Czech Television. The main reason, she said, is the ongoing modernisation of the army and the need for Czechia to meet its commitment to NATO to spend two percent of GDP on defence. The ministry wants to invest in the purchase of supersonic aircraft, infantry fighting vehicles and missiles to secure the country’s air defence.

Other sectors have also requested an increase in funding. The State Office for Nuclear Safety (SÚJB) has asked for more money from state coffers next year in view of the planned expansion of the nuclear power sector. The finance ministry is expected to publish the first draft of the state budget for 2025 by the end of August.