Government approves military development strategy until 2040

Andrej Babiš's government on Monday approved a strategy for the development of the Czech Armed Forces until 2040. The number of soldiers is expected to increase by at least 3,000 every year, Babiš said.

President Petr Pavel attended the Cabinet meeting to discuss the strategy, but criticised the approved document, saying it was unrealistic and failed to meet the basic objectives for building a fully combat-ready military.

He also said the government did not consider defence spending a priority and was giving precedence to other areas.