# Czech Republic Fields Rafael SPYDER Air Defence System

The Czech Republic has operationalized two of four Rafael SPYDER air defence system batteries under a 2021 contract, marking a significant enhancement of its national air defence capabilities. This deployment, showcased at NATO Days 2026 in Ostrava, represents a key step toward establishing a modern, layered airspace protection network that includes ballistic missile and counter-drone defenses. The procurement was executed through a Government-to-Government agreement led by the Israeli Ministry of Defense, with ongoing discussions to expand local industrial cooperation and further develop the national defence infrastructure.

- The Czech Republic Ministry of Defence is advancing its air defence modernization by integrating Rafael's SPYDER system, signaling opportunities for contractors in ballistic missile and counter-drone system development.
- Procurement professionals should note the strategic importance of Government-to-Government agreements in facilitating international defence acquisitions and potential industrial partnerships.
- Industry stakeholders can anticipate expanded requirements for local production and support services as the Czech Republic seeks to build a comprehensive national defence network.
- This development underscores the growing demand within NATO allies for advanced, multi-layered air defence solutions, presenting market opportunities for defence technology providers.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 20, 2026

### Government Entities
- Czech Republic Ministry of Defence
- Israeli Ministry of Defense
- SIBAT

### Vendors
- Rafael (prime contractor)

### Key Quotes
> 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.
> — Jaromír Zůna, Defence Minister

> The Czech Republic’s selection of SPYDER through a Government-to-Government agreement led by the Israel Ministry of Defense brought a system already in service across the world into the hands of a valued NATO ally.
> — Brigadier General (Res.) Yair Kulas, Head of SIBAT

> The security of our citizens comes first, and the Czech Republic, alongside all of Europe, requires anti-ballistic missile defense.
> — Andrej Babiš, Prime Minister

### Sources
- [Czech Republic fields Rafael SPYDER air defence system, opening path to ballistic missile and counter-drone protection network](https://defence-industry.eu/czech-republic-fields-rafael-spyder-air-defence-system-opening-path-to-ballistic-missile-and-counter-drone-protection-network) - Defence Industry Europe