Havlíček: F-35 fighter jet purchase is decided, Czech industry participation key

The purchase of US F-35 fighter jets is a done deal, ANO party deputy chairman Karel Havlíček said at the Prague Security Dialogue conference on Thursday. He also stressed that Czech industry must be involved as much as possible in the program.

Although ANO, now forming a government with SPD and the Motorists’ Party, had previously opposed expensive military procurements, including the F-35s, Havlíček said the Czech Republic has obligations to the United States that must be fulfilled.

The government of Petr Fiala approved the acquisition of 24 jets in September 2023. The total cost, including training, equipment, weapons, and lifecycle support, is expected to reach about CZK 150 billion. The first jets are scheduled to arrive in 2029, with full delivery completed by 2035.