In response to escalating tensions in the wake of the Ukraine conflict and the specter of potential nuclear confrontation with Russia, the Czech Republic is undergoing a significant overhaul of its defense strategy. This strategic shift, outlined in a document set for discussion in the House defense committee, is aimed at modernizing the nation’s armed forces and upgrading transport infrastructure to facilitate the transit of allied troops and equipment toward the Russian border.

The revised defense policy underscores that the primary objective of Czech defense strategy is to prepare for an extended, high-intensity defensive conflict against a technologically advanced adversary with nuclear capabilities, given Russia’s increasing aggression. The move is supported by former army chief Jiri Sedy, who emphasizes the need to prepare both the military and society for potential conflicts. Sedy highlights that the global security environment is deteriorating, not only due to the situation in Ukraine but also because of the escalating rivalry between the United States and China, making the threat of conflict a persistent concern.

Defense Minister Jana Černochová presented the strategy to President Petr Pavel, the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, in July, with government approval expected by the end of September.

The new strategy outlines two key objectives:

1. Enhancing the Armed Forces: This involves a substantial increase in the number of soldiers, with plans to expand professional military personnel from 24,000 to 30,000 by 2030, along with 10,000 active reservists. To support this rearmament, a significant budget increase is anticipated, with defense expenditure set to reach two percent of GDP. A one-third budget boost is expected next year, increasing defense spending from CZK 100 billion to CZK 150 billion.
2. Preparing Operational Readiness: This objective necessitates substantial investments in transport infrastructure, including road networks, railways, and airports, to accommodate potential troop movements. Infrastructure improvements, such as bridge reinforcement, tunnel expansions, and airport upgrades, are crucial components of this readiness. This shift aligns with NATO plans, with a focus on movements to the eastern flank and the transportation of heavy equipment, surpassing the carrying capacity of current Czech roads and bridges. This represents a significant departure from the previous strategy, which prioritized foreign operations.

Additionally, the strategy highlights the importance of extending defense readiness beyond the military to encompass society and the business sector. To achieve this, the Czech Republic plans to create conditions for the defense industry to be involved in the economic mobilization system.

The broader security strategy, approved by the government in June and prepared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, identifies Russia as the primary threat, alongside concerns emanating from China and unstable African nations. These strategic shifts reflect the Czech Republic’s commitment to ensuring its security in an increasingly complex and volatile international landscape.

Article by Prague Forum