A Czech defense firm, Excalibur Army, has established a representative office in Ukraine, marking a significant step in its plans to initiate the local production of large-caliber ammunition. The newly opened office will play a crucial role in managing procurement processes, overseeing documentation, and providing technical assistance to enhance collaborative defense manufacturing efforts within the country.
Since the onset of the war with Russia in February 2022, Excalibur Army has been a key supplier to Ukraine, delivering over a thousand land systems to bolster its defense capabilities. Among the military equipment provided are tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, artillery, rocket launchers, and more than two million rounds of ammunition, contributing to Ukraine’s ongoing military efforts.
The Czech Republic has shown unwavering support for Ukraine throughout the three-year conflict, facilitating military assistance through both official government transfers and grassroots initiatives. In April, the country completed a significant shipment of 86 T-72M1 main battle tanks, which were inherited following the Cold War. This batch included several upgraded units to the T-72M4 configuration, enhancing their operational effectiveness on the battlefield.
Beyond governmental support, Czech civil society has demonstrated strong solidarity with Ukraine. A notable grassroots fundraising campaign titled “A Gift for Putin,” initiated in 2023, successfully raised over $2.9 million from more than 20,500 contributors. This financial support is earmarked for the acquisition of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter for the Ukrainian military, highlighting the active role citizens play in bolstering defense efforts.
In addition to these efforts, Ukraine’s state-owned defense enterprise, Ukroboronprom, has entered into an agreement with Czech manufacturer Colt CZ Group. This deal enables the local assembly of NATO-standard firearms in Ukraine, including the production of CZ BREN 2 battle rifles, showcasing a commitment to strengthening the country’s defense capabilities through domestic manufacturing.
