The Czech military is grappling with a severe personnel shortage, which defense officials consider more urgent than funding issues. Defense Minister Jana Černochová and Chief of the General Staff Karel Řehka highlighted that recruitment levels are insufficient to meet the country’s defense needs. The Czech Army currently has around 23,600 soldiers, far below the target of 30,000 by 2030 and the newly proposed goal of 37,500 to fulfill NATO commitments and address rising security concerns. Last year’s recruitment efforts resulted in a net gain of only 176 soldiers.

Řehka emphasized the need for systemic changes, stating that an increase of 14,000 soldiers (60%) over the next decade is essential. While the Czech government is boosting defense spending, with 2024 marking the first time the country met NATO’s 2% GDP defense spending target, the personnel shortage remains a critical challenge. Despite the difficulties, Řehka expressed optimism, believing that the Czech Republic still has citizens willing to defend their country when needed.