Slovakia approves purchase of four more US F-16 fighters

The Slovak government has approved the purchase of four additional F-16 fighter jets from the United States, with the aircraft estimated to cost €390 million excluding value-added tax and customs duties, Slovak newspaper Denník N reports.

Slovakia has already purchased 14 F-16 fighter jets, 10 of which are currently in the country. The remaining four are being used in Arizona for the training of Slovak pilots.

The Defence Ministry said the existing fleet was insufficient to support the further development of Slovakia’s tactical aviation capabilities, prompting the decision to expand the fleet.

The ministry also stressed that the aircraft deliveries are being accompanied by the development of the infrastructure required for their long-term operation. This includes training pilots and technical personnel, as well as establishing the necessary logistics, maintenance and service support and training systems.

By Tamilla Hasanova