Slovakia Seeks to Acquire Patriot Air Defense System from the United States, Reports Reuters

Slovakia is interested in discussing the acquisition of a Patriot missile defense system from the United States as part of its long-term strategy to protect its airspace, according to Defence Minister Robert Kalinak.

In a recent appearance on a state broadcasting debate show, Kalinak revealed that Slovakia intends to leverage a discount associated with the potential purchase of attack helicopters, which it received from the U.S. last year.

This discount was part of an arrangement after Slovakia provided its retired MiG-29 fighter jets and an S-300 air defense system to Ukraine. “We have initiated discussions on whether this discount could also apply to the Patriot system,” Kalinak stated.

The U.S. previously offered Slovakia 12 new Bell AH-1Z Viper helicopters at a heavily reduced price, with a portion of the cost covered under the U.S. Foreign Military Financing program, following Slovakia’s aid to Ukraine.

This offer was made before the new government, which includes Kalinak, took office in October 2023. The government, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, has since suspended military aid supplies to Ukraine from government stockpiles.

Kalinak emphasized that while the helicopters under consideration are designed for offensive use, Slovakia’s primary focus should remain on defense, particularly air defense.

Given its proximity to Ukraine, Slovakia has been an active participant in NATO’s initiatives to strengthen its eastern defenses.

Currently, Slovakia has a Patriot system from Italy stationed in the country, which is expected to remain until April. Kalinak also mentioned that Slovakia is in discussions with Poland and Israel regarding short- to medium-range air defense systems.