Czech Republic integrates Israeli-built SPYDER air defense system
The Czech Republic’s armed forces have officially accepted four batteries of Israel’s SPYDER air defense system, manufactured by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, in a ceremony held over the weekend during NATO Days, one of Europe’s largest annual defense and security expos.
The ceremony took place in Ostrava, Czech Republic, with senior Czech government officials and Rafael executives on hand to mark the system’s entry into operational service.
Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš said the acquisition reflects his government’s renewed focus on strengthening the country’s air defense capabilities.
“We are returning to the concept we established between 2017 and 2021, prioritizing air defense and counter-drone capabilities. It was during that period, we signed the agreement for the Israeli-made SPYDER system. The security of our citizens comes first, and the Czech Republic, alongside all of Europe, requires anti-ballistic missile defense,” Babiš said.
A Milestone in the Israel-Czech Defense Partnership 🇮🇱 🇨🇿
— Ministry of Defense (@Israel_MOD) September 20, 2026
This week, at NATO Days, one of Europe's largest defense and security events, @RAFAELdefense SPYDER air defense system was delivered to the Czech Republic.
Read More: https://t.co/tjOTuAI5R0 pic.twitter.com/0pFH9pLs2a
Czech Defense Minister Jaromír Zuna described the system as an important addition to the country’s military capabilities.
“The introduction of this system represents a significant technological and qualitative advancement in the field of air defense and an important step in building modern, layered protection of our Republic’s airspace,” Zuna said.
Prof. Yuval Steinitz, chairman of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, said the company was proud that the Czech Republic had selected its technology.
“It is a matter of great pride that the Czech Republic, a valued NATO ally and a true friend of the State of Israel, placed its trust in Rafael׳s air defense technology,” Steinitz said.
He added that “The bond between our two nations runs deep, and it is our privilege to stand behind it with capability proven in the most demanding conditions.”
“Rafael intends to remain the home of Czech air defense for generations to come,” he said.
Yoav Tourgeman, president and CEO of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, said the first system delivered to the Czech Republic is now entering operational service.
“We are proud that the first system delivered to the Czech Republic is entering operational service,” Tourgeman said.
He said the selection of Rafael’s systems by NATO countries “reflects trust in our systems and their relevance to the air defense challenges of the modern battlefield.”
“The real test of innovation is not only in developing advanced technology, but also in turning it into an available and effective operational capability,” he added.
Israel’s Ministry of Defense also highlighted the broader significance of the program, saying the Czech acquisition is developing into a comprehensive air defense capability.
“The program, which is evolving into a comprehensive and integrated air defense capability for Czech skies, reflects the ministry’s strategy, which views defense exports as a central pillar in strengthening the IDF's force build-up, advancing foreign policy objectives, and driving growth in the defense industries and the Israeli economy,” the ministry said.
Israel and the Czech Republic signed a government-to-government agreement in 2021 that included contracts for the delivery of various defense-related equipment, with the SPYDER air defense system as a centerpiece of the deal.
According to Rafael, SPYDER is “a mobile, multi-layered air defense system based on Rafael’s combat-proven PYTHON and I-DERBY air-to-air missiles, designed to intercept a wide range of aerial threats.”
The system features a modular design and rapid response capabilities and can be deployed to protect strategic assets in both stationary and mobile missions.
The Czech Republic is among several European countries that have acquired the Israeli-developed system. SPYDER has also been ordered by Romania and Greece.
Rafael said Romania’s selection represents the largest deal in the company’s history, while its systems are also being incorporated into Greece’s Achilles Shield air defense array.
The Czech deployment adds another NATO member to the growing list of European countries adopting Israeli air defense technology.
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