Following discussions in Warsaw, Černochová visited the Łask Air Base, where a portion of Poland’s F-35 fleet will be stationed. She expressed appreciation for Poland’s willingness to share its insights and experience in integrating the F-35 into its defence framework, saying, “Poland is several years ahead in this area, and their experiences are invaluable to us. Polish pilots are already training on F-35s in the U.S., whereas our training will only begin in 2029.”
The Czech Republic signed a contract for 24 F-35 aircraft earlier this year, with the first delivery expected in 2031. The entire Czech F-35 fleet will be based in Čáslav, where preparations are underway. Černochová highlighted the value of examining Poland’s approach to building ground infrastructure for the F-35, a crucial component of the integration process.
The ministers also discussed strengthening cooperation within NATO, especially given the ongoing Russian aggression and the recent U.S. presidential election results, which Černochová emphasised as underscoring the need for a more active NATO presence. Both parties addressed key issues, such as host nation support and logistics, with the Czech Republic committed to supplying fuel and providing critical support to allied forces stationed within its borders.
They further agreed that while transatlantic defence cooperation remains foundational for European security, European nations must assume greater responsibility in collective defence. This includes meeting NATO commitments to develop and maintain robust military capabilities.
In defence industry collaboration, Černochová and Kosiniak-Kamysz discussed opportunities for joint ventures, notably in the production of artillery ammunition. Plans are underway for Czech and Polish companies to collaborate on a project for manufacturing large-calibre ammunition, supporting both national and allied needs.
The Czech Republic is actively supplying Ukraine with ammunition through its defence industry, delivering around 1.6 million large-calibre rounds this year. An additional half million rounds of 155 mm calibre are set to reach Ukraine in 2024 as part of the Czech Ammunition Initiative, which aims to pool resources from various nations. Several countries have already committed to supporting the initiative.
