U.S. is a key partner and ally in the modernization of Slovakia’s military, says Slovak defense minister
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Slovak Minister of Defence Jaroslav Nad’ met at the Pentagon on October 28 to reaffirm the close bilateral defense relationship between the two countries.
The two leaders discussed the importance of “transatlantic unity, cooperation in defense modernization, and deepening the substantial defense ties between the United States and the Slovak Republic” the Pentagon statement reads.
They agreed to work closely to enhance defense cooperation through a high-level defense group and concluding negotiations on a mutually beneficial defense cooperation agreement soon. U.S. Secretary of Defense recognized the Slovak Republic Slovakia’s significant contributions to NATO capabilities.
Slovakia has doubled its defense spending in recent years and is modernizing its military and enhancing interoperability with NATO allies.
Austin said that the United States is proud to be partners with Slovakia on F-16s and Blackhawk helicopters. “And we’re looking forward to exploring future defense-industry cooperation in other areas to support NATO’s Capability Targets” he said.
“We are partners. We are friends. We are allies. And this collaboration between our countries is long,” said Slovak Minister of Defence. He said the U.S. has “played a key role in Slovakia’s entry into NATO” and is also “a key partner and ally in the modernization of our [Slovakia’s] military.”
Since 1993, the cooperation between the two countries has deepened through at NATO and in joint operations. The cooperation also includes tackling common challenges like the pandemic and countering hybrid threats.
