Czech Republic’s First Spyder Air Defence Battery Completed and Undergoing Testing
The Czech Armed Forces have confirmed that the production of the Spyder air defence system, which will replace the aging Soviet-era 2K12 Kub system, is progressing as planned. The first of four batteries has been completed and is now undergoing rigorous factory testing, while work on the second battery is already underway.
Manufactured by Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the Spyder system marks a major upgrade for the Czech Republic’s air defence capabilities. Colonel Jaroslav Daverný from the Ministry of Defence’s Force Development Section highlighted that the new system offers extended range, greater accuracy, and the ability to engage multiple aerial threats simultaneously, significantly enhancing national security.
Spyder System Specifications
The Czech Republic has procured all available missile variants for the Spyder system to maximize operational flexibility:
- Python 5 – Short-range infrared-guided missile
- I-Derby – Radar-guided medium-range missile
- I-Derby LR – Long-range missile with a range of up to 80 km
Each Spyder battery consists of nine vehicles, including:
- Radar system
- Four missile launchers
- Transport and loading vehicle
- Command and fire control unit
The Czech military signed a contract for four Spyder batteries in 2021, valued at 13.7 billion CZK, with deliveries set to be completed by 2026. An additional order for I-Derby LR missiles was placed in 2023, with ammunition deliveries expected to continue until at least 2027. The systems will be deployed with the 251st Anti-Aircraft Missile Squadron of the 25th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment based in Strakonice.
Factory Testing and Integration
The first battery is undergoing meticulous factory testing to ensure each component meets strict quality standards. Testing includes:
- Vehicle functionality and system integration
- Technical certification of electrical, lifting, and pressure systems
- Electromagnetic compatibility tests for integration into Czech defence networks
The Czech Ministry of Defence’s State Quality Verification Authority oversees the locally produced components, while Israeli-made parts are inspected by their respective regulatory bodies. Each vehicle requires ten working days to complete verification, meaning the full factory testing process takes approximately 90 days per battery.
By the end of 2024, factory trials for the first battery are expected to conclude, followed by testing of data transmission capabilities within the system and with higher command levels. Security assessments will also be carried out to certify the Spyder system for classified military use.
Training and Deployment
Personnel from the 251st Squadron have already begun familiarization with the Spyder system. Their primary training phase will take place at the end of 2024, culminating in operational trials before the system is fully introduced into the Czech Armed Forces’ inventory.
A key aspect of the acquisition is Czech industry participation, which accounts for over 30% of the project. Local defence companies, including Vojenský technický ústav and RETIA, are involved in production, ensuring efficient delivery and integration of the system. The manufacturing process is being carried out both in the Czech Republic and abroad.
With the completion of the first battery and ongoing testing, the Czech Republic is on track to modernize its air defence, reinforcing its ability to counter evolving aerial threats efficiently.
