Slovakia is once again capable of fully protecting its airspace, Pellegrini announced.

Slovakia has regained the capability to defend its airspace independently, as announced by President Peter Pellegrini. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Slovakia retired its outdated MiG-29 fighters and provided them to Ukraine, relying on allies for airspace protection. In 2018, Slovakia ordered 14 new F-16 Block 70 fighters, most of which are now in the country. Pellegrini congratulated the armed forces on this significant step towards enhancing national sovereignty and security. Ten F-16s have been delivered, with four remaining in the US for training. The Slovak government also approved the purchase of four additional F-16s this September. Meanwhile, the Czech Republic is modernizing its air force with Swedish JAS-39 Gripen jets and has approved the acquisition of 24 F-35A Lightning II aircraft.