The Jewish State’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems manufactures the missile system purchased by the Czechs; Prague reportedly made the purchase to replace its outdated system(s); Officials estimate that the Czech Republic will use the Spyder system for at least 20 years.
The Czech Republic’s Ministry of Defense agreed to purchase Israel’s Spyder surface-to-air missile defense system for a reported $627 million this week with the intent of replacing its longstanding Russian-made 2K12 Kub system. According to at least one report, this purchase will allow the Czechs to utilize the Israeli-made system for at least 20 years.
Lubomír Metnar, Czech Defense Minister, responded to the agreement, stating, “I appreciate the willingness of the Israeli government to share with us a state-of-the-art defense system that will move our military towards 21st century capabilities.”
He would go on to highlight the superiority of the Rafael-designed system, saying, “Finally, we will get rid of our dependence on the Soviet Kub systems from the 1970s which do not meet the current requirements for airspace protection.”
The Czech Ministry of Defense also said, “Israel’s Spyder emerged as the most efficient one from the comparison. It is a solution adjusted to Czech needs, compatible with NATO standards and with the involvement of Czech industry.”
The purchase includes four (4) batteries which are expected to arrive by 2026.
