Czech Republic approves plan to buy two dozen fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets at a cost of $5bn

The Czech Republic has decided to purchase fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets. The government has approved the plan to purchase the aircraft.

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The Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said. The purchase of fifth-generation fighters is associated with the desire of the armed forces to improve capabilities and facilitate co-operation with NATO allies.

The Czech Republic will buy 24 F-35 Lightning II fighters. Deliveries will begin in 2029 and last for seven years. The purchase price of two dozen aircraft, engines and ammunition will be $5bn. Another $1.5bn will be invested in personnel and pilot training, fuel purchases and infrastructure upgrades.

In the summer of 2023, the U.S. State Department approved the potential sale of fifth-generation fighters. In addition to the aircraft, the Czech Republic has requested the purchase of 25 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines, AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles and small-diameter bombs.

Source: Reuters