Although the Czech Republic plans to acquire fifth-generation aircraft to meet future operational requirements, the Gripens are expected to safeguard national airspace during the transition. The Ministry has indicated that continuing to operate the Gripens remains a preferred option to maintain airspace protection.
Discussions with Sweden resumed after initial proposals were deemed insufficient. “Because the first offers did not meet our expectations, we asked our Swedish partners for a new proposal. After challenging negotiations, we have now arrived at a variant that is significantly more advantageous for the Czech Republic. Compared to the original offer, we negotiated a discount of approximately 25 percent,” said Lubor Koudelka, Director General of the Armaments and Acquisitions Division.
According to the updated offer, the Czech Air Force would operate 12 aircraft—10 single-seat and two twin-seat—from 2027, instead of the current fleet of 14. This adjustment aligns with the gradual introduction of F-35 aircraft into the Czech fleet starting from 2031.
The total cost of the proposed lease, including servicing and training, is estimated at CZK 16.65 billion (approximately EUR 675 million) including VAT. While the leasing cost itself is relatively small, maintenance expenses are expected to rise due to the aircraft nearing 30 years in service.
The offer accounts for broader inflation in the defence aviation sector, including increases in labour and materials over the past two decades. The pricing structure provided by Sweden follows the same model used for its own air force contracts.
In addition to the lease, the Gripens will require modernisation to meet evolving operational standards. The proposed upgrades would cost CZK 3.9 billion (around EUR 158 million) with VAT, following nearly CZK 2 billion (approximately EUR 81 million) spent on previous updates during the current lease term (2015–2027).
“In the context of the Czech Army’s current and planned tactical aviation capabilities—particularly the F-35 programme schedule—the Swedish offer is acceptable from the perspective of the Air Force Command,” said Major General Petr Čepelka, Commander of the Czech Air Force. He added that maintaining continuity is important for ensuring a trained pilot base, as current Gripen pilots will form the core of the future F-35 force.
Source: Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic.
