Czech Army Plans Expansion Amid Changing Security Landscape

The Czechia is considering a significant increase in its military personnel in response to evolving global security challenges.

Chief of the General Staff of the Czech Armed Forces, Karel Rehka, emphasized the need for an additional 7,500 troops in the coming years, with long-term plans to further expand the force structure.

According to Radio Prague International on March 12, Rehka noted that the Czech military, traditionally structured as an expeditionary force, must adapt to new security requirements.

“We are doing everything possible within the current system and addressing existing challenges. However, to meet emerging operational demands, we require approximately 7,500 more personnel. Given the current staffing levels, the overall increase needed amounts to nearly 14,000 troops, representing approximately 60% of the current force,” he stated.

As of early last year, the Czech defense sector had 27,826 conscripts and 4,266 active reservists, with the professional military force consisting of around 24,000 troops. Rehka outlined plans for the Czech Armed Forces to reach 30,000 professional soldiers and 10,000 reservists by 2030.

Additionally, NATO’s strategic objectives indicate a need for up to 37,500 Czech military personnel to contribute effectively to collective deterrence and defense.

The expansion aligns with broader efforts to enhance the country’s defense posture amid geopolitical shifts. Rehka described the war in Ukraine as a warning signal for democratic nations, stressing the importance of strengthening defense capabilities. He also pointed to increasing military cooperation between Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea as a factor influencing European security policies.

Czech Defense Minister Jana Cernochova underscored the financial aspects of these developments, stating that the current defense budget allocation of 2% of GDP represents the minimum requirement. She suggested that increasing military expenditures to 3% of GDP might be necessary to meet the growing demands on the armed forces.

Earlier, a survey by the Central European Digital Media Observatory (CEDMO) revealed that 44% of Czechs support Ukraine’s victory in Russia’s war, while 7% favor a Russian win. Nearly 40% of Czech respondents prefer a negotiated settlement.

Younger Czechs, particularly those aged 16-24, show the strongest support for Ukraine, with 62% backing its victory. Concerns about the war’s future are prevalent, with 67% fearing prolonged conflict and 55% worried about escalation into a NATO-Russia confrontation. Many also express concerns about fighting moving closer to Czechia’s borders.