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Czech military prepares to hand over fleet of modernized T-72M4CZ tanks to Ukraine.
The Czech Army confirmed plans to donate 30 modernized T-72M4CZ tanks and recovery vehicles to Ukraine after upgrades are completed. The move will bolster Ukraine’s armored forces as the war with Russia grinds on.
On October 2, 2025, Chief of the General Staff of the Czech Army Karel Řehka announced that once the modernization of 30 T-72M4CZ tanks, and likely three VT-72M4CZ armored recovery vehicles, is complete, he will recommend to the Czech Government that these machines be donated to Ukraine. The modernization program, initiated years before the war in Ukraine and the Czech acquisition of German Leopard tanks, aimed to ensure the continued operability of the T-72 fleet. As reported by Chief of the General Staff Karel Řehka, these vehicles could soon reinforce Ukraine’s armored forces in their struggle against Russian aggression.
Rather than retiring the T-72M4CZ fleet prematurely, Prague intends to transform it into a strategic asset for Kyiv, directly contributing to Ukraine’s war effort while simultaneously advancing its own transition to a modern, Leopard-based armored corps. (Picture source: Czech MoD)
The T-72M4CZ represents one of the most advanced upgrades of the Soviet-designed T-72M/M1 main battle tank, developed specifically for the Czech Army. The modernization includes a British Perkins Condor CV12-1000 TCA diesel engine delivering 1,000 hp, coupled with an Allison automatic transmission, which provides significant mobility improvements. The fire control system, sourced from the Italian company Officine Galileo, features modernized ballistic computers, thermal imaging sights, and a laser rangefinder. Protection is enhanced with advanced composite and ERA armor, including the Czech-developed DYNA system, and a self-defense suite against anti-tank guided missiles. These improvements make the T-72M4CZ broadly comparable to Russian T-72B3 or even T-90 variants currently in service.
The modernization program was first launched in the 1990s, when the Czech Republic lacked resources to procure entirely new Western main battle tanks. At its height, around 30 T-72M1s were upgraded to the M4CZ standard, with production involving key Czech industry actors like VOP CZ. The design was developed as a cost-effective solution to extend the life of the armored fleet and bridge the capability gap until Western tanks could be procured. Although later overshadowed by the acquisition of Leopard 2A4s and the forthcoming Leopard 2A8s, the T-72M4CZ fleet has retained operational value and combat potential.
When compared to its peers, the T-72M4CZ holds distinct advantages in mobility and fire control over older Soviet-era designs, and in terms of survivability, its armor package elevates its protection level closer to NATO standards. While it cannot match the latest Leopard 2A8 or Abrams M1A2 in overall performance, its balance of firepower, protection, and maneuverability makes it an effective platform for Ukraine, especially against Russian T-72B3s and T-80s currently deployed on the battlefield. Its relatively lighter weight also facilitates easier logistical mobility compared to heavier NATO tanks.
Strategically, the potential transfer of these tanks would significantly strengthen Ukraine’s armored forces at a crucial moment in its counteroffensive operations. From a geopolitical perspective, this move would further align Prague with NATO’s collective support for Kyiv, while simultaneously eliminating redundancy in the Czech fleet as Leopard 2A8s arrive. For Ukraine, the T-72M4CZ represents not only an increase in numbers but also a qualitative boost, filling the gap between older Soviet-standard equipment and modern Western platforms. Militarily, the donation would increase Ukraine’s flexibility in deploying both NATO-standard and upgraded Soviet-derived systems across its frontlines.
The modernization project carried out by VOP CZ was initiated under earlier ministry leadership, with funding already allocated and critical components purchased in advance. Canceling the program would have been economically inefficient, and thus the work continued despite the acquisition of new Leopards. The last major contract for this work involved the technical evaluation and upgrades managed by VOP CZ, supported by advance payments from the Ministry of Defense. Although the modernization was scaled back to essential upgrades, the aim remained to ensure operational capability, thereby safeguarding the investment made before transitioning fully to Leopard tanks.
By completing the modernization and transferring the vehicles to Ukraine, the Czech Republic positions itself as both a reliable NATO ally and a pragmatic actor ensuring value for already-spent defense resources. Rather than retiring the T-72M4CZ fleet prematurely, Prague intends to transform it into a strategic asset for Kyiv, directly contributing to Ukraine’s war effort while simultaneously advancing its own transition to a modern, Leopard-based armored corps. This decision highlights the Czech Republic’s commitment to supporting Ukraine with not only political statements but tangible military assets.
Written by Teoman S. Nicanci – Defense Analyst, Army Recognition Group
Teoman S. Nicanci holds degrees in Political Science, Comparative and International Politics, and International Relations and Diplomacy from leading Belgian universities, with research focused on Russian strategic behavior, defense technology, and modern warfare. He is a defense analyst at Army Recognition, specializing in the global defense industry, military armament, and emerging defense technologies.