The Czech state defense company VOP CZ and Ukraine’s defense industry enterprise Ukroboronprom have signed an agreement to overhaul T-64 tanks for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The details of the agreement have not been disclosed, but it is expected that the Czechs will utilize the expertise of specialists from Ukraine’s repair plants to work at their facilities, given that the T-64 tanks are not well-known in Eastern Europe.

The T-64 tanks were manufactured solely at the Malyshev Plant and KhBKM in Kharkiv, and so attracting specialists from Ukraine to repair the T-64 tanks in the Czech Republic will be necessary. The Czech Republic has previously stated its readiness to assist Ukraine in the repair of these types of tanks. Czechoslovak Group, a private enterprise, was initially mentioned in the notice, however, the agreement was eventually concluded with VOP CZ.

The Czechs emphasized that they have a deliberate policy of repairing equipment for the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a form of aid. The military facilities closest to the Ukrainian border will be used to restore the T-64 tanks. The Czech Republic is also providing other forms of assistance to Ukraine, including a project to modernize over 90 units of T-72 tanks, training for Ukrainian soldiers according to NATO standards, and assistance in reducing transport emissions further.

According to Defense24, the Czech Republic is prepared to provide further support to Ukraine, including assistance in the development of its defense industry. A partnership in this area would enable the Czech Republic to utilize Ukraine’s expertise in manufacturing aircraft and helicopter engines and other components for military equipment. This would facilitate a closer partnership between the two countries in the defense sector.

The Czech Republic and Ukraine have close historical ties, and Czech politicians have repeatedly emphasized their country’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The modernization and repair of Ukraine’s tanks are seen as an essential component of this support.

Overall, the agreement to overhaul T-64 tanks for the Ukrainian Armed Forces represents a significant step towards closer cooperation between the Czech Republic and Ukraine in the defense sector. With the involvement of specialists from Ukraine and the use of Czech military facilities closest to the Ukrainian border, the project will likely be successful in restoring the T-64 tanks to operational status.

Article by Prague Forum