US approves Czech F-35 buy

The Czech Air Force is looking to field 24 F-35A aircraft to equip two squadrons in Čáslav Air Base. (US Air Force)

The US government has approved the sale of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) to the Czech Republic.

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced the approval on 29 June, saying the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) covered up to 24 aircraft, air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons, spares, training, and support for an estimated USD5.62 billion.

“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 DSCA said in its notification of the US State Department approval.