Czech Republic receives all four Israeli SPYDER air defence systems

The Czech Republic has received all four SPYDER air defence systems purchased from Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, Czech Defence Minister Jaromír Zuna announced.

“I am pleased to be able to present the complete SPYDER system batteries to the general public on this occasion,” Zuna said during NATO Days, a major defence and security event in the Czech city of Ostrava, The Jerusalem Post reports. 

“The introduction of this system represents a significant technological and qualitative shift in the field of air defence and an important step in building modern, layered airspace protection for our republic,” Zuna added.

The delivery is part of a 2021 government-to-government agreement between Israel’s Defence Ministry and the Czech Republic. Production of all four batteries has been completed, with the systems adapted to Czech military requirements and NATO standards.

The Czech Defence Ministry said the system is fully integrated into NATO’s air defence network, while all maintenance and servicing will be carried out in the Czech Republic.

“The program, which is evolving into a comprehensive and integrated air defence capability for Czech skies, reflects the ministry’s strategy, which views defence exports as a central pillar in strengthening the IDF's force build-up, advancing foreign policy objectives, and driving growth in the defence industries and the Israeli economy,” Israel’s Defence Ministry said.

The SPYDER is a mobile, quick-reaction air defence system designed to counter a range of aerial threats. According to the Czech Defence Ministry, it will protect fixed installations as well as ground forces operating on the battlefield.

The system uses Python-5 and Derby missiles adapted for ground launch and is designed to counter aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles and precision-guided munitions.

By Sabina Mammadli