News

Slovakia’s new F-16s to make international debut at NATO Days in Ostrava!

At the jubilee 25th NATO Days in Ostrava & the 16th Czech Air Force Days, another exceptional event will take place. The newly acquired Slovak multirole F-16C/D Block 70/72 aircraft will make their international debut at this event.

The acquisition of these American 4th-generation fighters is the largest and most expensive arms contract in the history of independent Slovakia. It has been underway since 2018, and the first two aircraft landed at Malacky Air Base on July 22, 2024. So far, the Slovak Air Force has received 5 of the 14 ordered aircraft. The transition from the outdated MiG-29s to modern F-16s represents a major generational leap for Slovak pilots. Their training is gradually taking place directly in the United States, the country of origin of these aircraft.

“After the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and C-27 Spartan transport aircraft, the F-16C/D Block 70/72 fighters are the next step in the modernization of the Slovak Air Force, and we greatly appreciate that our event will host their international debut,” commented Zbyněk Pavlačík, chairman of Jagello 2000. “Following the dynamic display of the legendary AV-8B Harrier II, this is yet another performance requested by visitors. We are therefore delighted that another wish will be fulfilled precisely at this jubilee edition.”

The F-16 Fighting Falcon is one of the most widespread multirole aircraft in the world, with over 4,600 units produced since 1974. In addition to NATO states, it is also in service in countries in Asia and the Middle East. It was developed under the American LWF program, which aimed to create a lightweight fighter. There are many variants, and the F-16V ordered by Slovakia is currently the most modern version, featuring advanced electronics and an upgraded cockpit.

See you at
NATO Days in Ostrava & Czech Air Force Days 2025!