The outgoing Czech government has announced that Czechia will build and deliver a modern satellite to Ukraine as a gesture of support.

Source: Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda; Czech Ministry of Transport

Quote: "This demonstrates not only the technological excellence of Czech companies in one of the most demanding sectors but also our continued support for Ukraine."

Details: The Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the Czech Republic will construct and deliver to Ukraine a modern Earth observation satellite capable of collecting data regardless of weather conditions and time of day.

The Czech Ministry of Transport specified that the satellite project for Ukraine will be launched in the coming months, with the satellite's deployment expected within a year.

Czechia will become the first country to provide Ukraine with this type of assistance.

Czech firms with experience in space technology, particularly in small satellite construction, will take part in the design and assembly of the satellite.

The spacecraft will be equipped with a combination of radar imaging (SAR), optical and radiation detection systems, and radio frequency spectrum monitoring in multiple ranges, enabling observation of the Earth's surface even at night and during adverse weather conditions.

The Czech Ministry of Transport added that the satellite will eventually be joined by others to form a constellation.

The initiative builds on a Memorandum of Understanding between the Czech Ministry of Transport and the State Space Agency of Ukraine.

The project forms part of the Czech government's Ukraine Reconstruction Programme, implemented by the Ministry of Transport in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Quote from Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský: "The gifting of a satellite is a concrete expression of our solidarity and determination to help Ukraine build its digital infrastructure and strengthen its operational sovereignty and resilience. It is an investment in its future, and therefore in the security and stability of Europe."

Quote from Czech Transport Minister Martin Kupka: "The Czech Republic is demonstrating its ability to design and deliver advanced technologies that make a real difference – whether in the field of security, infrastructure reconstruction or civil protection. We believe this mission will enhance Ukraine's capabilities while deepening our cooperation in space technology."

Background:

• In recent parliamentary elections, the populist ANO party led by Andrej Babiš won the most votes. Babiš has previously promised to cancel the ammunition initiative, which helps supply artillery shells to Ukraine.
• He, however, has eased his rhetoric in recent statements, saying he is not opposed to supplying Czech weapons to Ukraine as long as it does not come at the expense of the state budget.
• In recent days, Babiš has urged the outgoing government to refrain from making any further major decisions.

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