US approves $5.6 billion F-35 jet sale to Czech Republic
Prague's commitment reaffirms the F-35’s dominance of the fighter market despite delivery delays and Tech Refresh 3 upgrade challenges. (Photo: USAF/US DoD)
The F-35 deal for the Czech Republic will include a spare Pratt & Whitney engine, weapon systems, electronic warfare and communications kit and other equipment.
The US State Department has approved a possible $5.6 billion Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of F-35 fighter jets, munitions and related equipment to the Czech Republic.
The deal would cover 24 Lockheed Martin fifth-generation Joint Strike Fighters (JSF) in conventional take-off and landing (CTOL) configuration – better known as F-35A.
‘The proposed sale will improve the Czech Republic’s defence capabilities as well as support NATO operations by guarding against modern threats and maintaining a constant presence in the region. The Czech Republic will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces,’ the department noted in a 29 June
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