The Czech Republic has ordered 24 armored MARS vehicles integrated with RBS 70 NG systems to enhance its ground-based air defense capabilities. The agreement was signed by Lubor Koudelka, Director General of the Czech Defense and Procurement Agency, and Johan Stjärnlöv, Sales and Marketing Director of Swedish defense company SAAB Dynamics. The vehicles are scheduled to be delivered to the 25th Air Defense Missile Regiment between 2028 and 2030.
The new system is based on the 4×4 MARS armored vehicle manufactured by Czech defense company SVOS. It features a remotely operated stabilized turret system equipped with three launchers, each carrying one RBS 70 NG missile. This design keeps the operator protected within the vehicle’s armor while significantly improving reaction time and operational effectiveness.
The RBS 70 NG air defense system provides effective protection against modern aerial threats such as drones, helicopters, fighter jets, and cruise missiles with a range of up to 9 kilometers and an altitude ceiling of 5,000 meters. Utilizing laser guidance, it remains effective even in electronic warfare environments thanks to its resistance to jamming and deception. With an automatic target tracking system and advanced thermal imaging, it can operate with high precision both day and night. Its modular design also allows easy integration onto various platforms.
Koudelka emphasized that the acquisition significantly enhances the Czech Army’s air defense capabilities and aligns with NATO’s integrated air defense expectations. Unlike previous man-portable systems, this setup eliminates the need for personnel to operate in exposed positions, thus greatly increasing troop safety.
Colonel Jaroslav Daverný, Commander of the Air Defense Regiment, stated that modern battlefield conditions demand not only firepower but also mobility and personnel protection. He highlighted the MARS-integrated RBS 70 NG system as an effective and mobile air defense solution against low-altitude threats such as drones, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft.
In addition to the vehicles, the deal includes eight standalone RBS 70 NG launchers, 80 missiles, training for users and maintenance personnel, spare parts, simulation systems, and support equipment. Currently, Czech air defense forces operate 16 legacy RBS 70 units and 16 RBS 70 NG systems, and this procurement marks a major modernization step forward.
The MARS (Modular Armored Reconnaissance and Security) vehicle developed by SVOS offers STANAG Level 3 ballistic protection, mine resistance, and high mobility in difficult terrain. It is modularly designed for use in various roles including command-and-control, reconnaissance, and weapon integration.
The RBS 70 NG, developed by SAAB, is a laser-guided very short-range air defense system equipped with the next-generation “Bolide” missile. Its features include automatic tracking, integrated thermal imaging, and an advanced user interface. Its non-emitting design ensures operational stealth, making it ideal for surprise attacks.
The total contract value is approximately 1.86 billion Swedish kronor (around 4.2 billion Czech koruna or 360 million euros). This procurement reflects the Czech Republic’s strategic intent to modernize its land-based air defenses and ensure full interoperability with NATO forces.
