Slovak Defence Minister Martin Sklenar attended the Conference of Defence Ministers in Paris. The main topic was the air defence of European countries. The forum also highlighted the possibility of seeking a common European approach and strategy in this area, capable of countering the air threats of the 21st century. In the field of air defence, the Slovak Ministry of Defence is seeking its own solution in addition to assistance from allies. It has therefore reached out to 11 countries capable of producing air defence systems. The ministry expects to receive offers by the end of July. The development of Slovakia's air defence capabilities will be a long and gradual process divided into four phases. At this stage, the government is working on the first phase and intends to prepare the ground so that a concrete decision can be taken in the shortest possible time. "The first phase will include the procurement of a medium-range mobile anti-aircraft missile system with a carrier and 12 man-portable anti-aircraft missile systems, together with logistical support and other components, for a value of up to €200 million," the ministry said. The implementation of this procurement is in line with the Longstanding Development Plan, set to be financed under the ministry's budgeting.
Source: TASR
