In a recent announcement, Czech President Petr Pavel confirmed that the Czech Republic will hand over two SA-6 air defense systems and corresponding missiles to Ukraine. In addition, he suggested that donating Czech L-159 fighter planes to Ukraine would also be appropriate.
Srđan Popović, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Pavel highlighted the importance of providing Ukraine with the necessary equipment and ammunition to prepare for the decisive phase of the war. “Securing enough armored vehicles and ammunition is crucial for Ukraine,” he said, adding that “the decisive part of the battle will have to take place on the ground.”
The two SA-6 air defense systems with a relatively large number of missiles will be immediately available for use, as Ukrainian soldiers are already trained in this type of technology.
President Pavel also mentioned the potential for the Czech Republic to provide ammunition from third-party sources, in which the country is very active. “It may be appropriate to consider whether we could also provide Ukraine with our L-159 aircraft with a certain prospect and perspective for rearmament,” he said. The L-159 is a Czech-made, light subsonic combat aircraft designed for air support of ground forces, reconnaissance, and air combat missions.
The decision on whether to provide Ukraine with L-159 fighter jets, however, ultimately falls to the Czech government. “Any decision on military shipments falls to the government,” Pavel said.
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