Prague is advancing plans to replace its aging Pandur II 8×8 armored vehicle fleet, moving toward the procurement of more than 250 new armored personnel carriers, with Tatra Defence Vehicle’s Pandur 8×8 EVO positioned as a leading domestic option.
The effort is underpinned by a feasibility study submitted in December 2025 that examines acquisition pathways and could be valued in the tens of billions of Czech crowns, according to Aktuálně. In 2024, the government signaled a shift in approach by canceling modernization plans for the Czech Army’s 127 Pandur II vehicles and initiating a full fleet renewal.
Defense officials said the feasibility study is now undergoing military evaluation and will culminate in a classified recommendation to the government. As part of the process, authorities held market consultations with several European defence firms, including Artec, Patria, and General Dynamics European Land Systems.
The consultations highlighted Artec’s Boxer and Patria’s AMV XP as potential candidates alongside the locally developed Pandur 8×8 EVO.
Under current plans, the chosen vehicle will be assigned to the 4th Rapid Deployment Brigade, a key mechanized infantry unit that forms the Czech Republic’s principal contribution to NATO’s Allied Rapid Reaction Corps. According to Chief of the General Staff Gen. Karel Řehka, the next-generation platform must meet NATO operational requirements, support future upgrades, and ensure cost-effective service over its lifecycle. Pending approval, deliveries could begin as early as 2029.
