Around the Czech Republic's desire to abandon Soviet-era military equipment

To clarify this issue, Sputnik correspondent interviewed Doctor of Law Petr Markvart, who works for the military equipment import-export company DEFCON, founded in 2009.

According to Mr. Markvart, the Czech Republic wants to abandon mainly heavy armored fighting vehicles - T-72 tanks and BVP-2 infantry fighting vehicles that were produced under Soviet license at Slovak factories in the 80s of the last century. These military equipment were produced 30-35 years ago.

Mi-24 combat helicopter. Photo: Getty

According to Dr. Markvart, some platforms are now completely obsolete, especially the control and communication systems. The main reason for replacing the equipment is that the Soviet technical types are not compatible with NATO standards (not to mention the quality here).

However, there are quite a few types of Soviet equipment that could be "Westernized" in other ways without buying new weapons from the countries of this military alliance. One such example is the Mi-24 helicopter, which is probably the most successful combat helicopter. It has been used in the most severe climatic conditions and requires minimal maintenance.

According to Mr. Markvart, if these planes are upgraded, their "retirement" age will be extended by another twenty years at minimal cost.

Markvart believes that modern Russian equipment is comparable to international models. Russia has excellent military technology in many aspects. One proof of this is that military powers such as China, India, Turkey and Egypt buy Russian armored vehicles and aircraft, especially missile defense systems.

Mi-35 combat helicopter. Photo: AP

Not so long ago, Russia shocked the international community with its Armata-based armored vehicles, Su-35 and above all Su-57 aircraft. In addition, the use of Russian weapons systems is based on principles that do not coincide with the views of the United States and NATO.

Russia's military equipment is designed to protect its territory and airspace, except for intercontinental missiles and strategic bombers (which belong to the group of offensive weapons). Meanwhile, according to Mr. Markvart, NATO and the US are constantly developing special task forces and offensive forces./.