Czech Army Acquires MARS Air Defense Vehicles Armed with SAAB RBS 70 Missiles
Czech Ministry of Defence has confirmed its intention to procure 24 mobile air defense vehicles configured as M-SHORAD (Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense) systems, based on the Czech-manufactured MARS 4×4 armored platform. The vehicles will be equipped with a remote-controlled weapon station integrating three Swedish-made SAAB RBS 70 surface-to-air missile launchers, offering enhanced short-range air defense capabilities tailored to the needs of modern battlefield environments.
The contract will supply three complete M-SHORAD batteries, each consisting of eight vehicles, for deployment with the 25th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment. The platforms will be produced by Czech defense manufacturer SVOS, which will deliver the armored MARS chassis and integrate the specialized turret, enabling the deployment of up to three RBS 70 NG surface-to-air missile launchers per vehicle. The turret system is designed to allow quick dismounting of the missile units, enabling operators to relocate launchers to advantageous positions, such as elevated rooftops or terrain features, for maximum targeting effectiveness and flexibility during operations.
M-SHORAD, short for Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense, refers to mobile, agile systems capable of protecting forward-deployed and maneuvering ground units from aerial threats such as helicopters, low-flying fixed-wing aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, and precision-guided munitions. Designed for modern high-intensity conflict zones, M-SHORAD systems are a direct response to the growing threat of air attacks on mobile formations and the need for immediate, on-the-move air defense coverage.
The MARS 4×4 vehicle platform, developed by SVOS, is a modern multi-role armored chassis designed for high mobility, modularity, and protection in combat and reconnaissance operations. It features a monocoque hull with a high level of ballistic and mine protection compliant with STANAG 4569 standards. The vehicle is powered by a robust Cummins engine, coupled with an automatic transmission, providing high off-road performance and operational reliability. Its modularity allows it to be adapted for a wide range of missions, including reconnaissance, command and control, and weapon integration such as the M-SHORAD configuration.
The air defense component, the RBS 70 NG (New Generation), is a man-portable, laser-guided surface-to-air missile system developed by SAAB. It is designed to counter a wide spectrum of aerial threats with precision guidance and high resistance to electronic countermeasures. The system includes a new-generation sight module with integrated night vision and automatic target tracking, enabling accurate engagements in all visibility conditions. The missile itself has a range of over 9 km and can engage targets flying at altitudes of up to 5,000 meters. Its laser beam riding guidance makes it extremely difficult to jam or spoof, making it particularly effective against both conventional aircraft and modern UAVs.
The Czech Ministry of Defence is also expected to finalize a supplementary contract in July 2025 with SAAB Dynamics AB for eight additional RBS 70 NG stand-alone launch systems, further enhancing the Army’s flexibility to deploy the system independently of vehicles. The acquisition package includes 80 missiles, training and simulation tools, spare parts, maintenance kits, and comprehensive training for operating personnel.
The total value of the acquisition is estimated at €166 million, excluding VAT. This landmark contract strengthens the Czech Republic’s integrated air defense network and demonstrates a strategic focus on enhancing mobile air defense capabilities through the combination of local industrial production and advanced European missile technology. The adoption of the MARS 4×4 M-SHORAD platform will provide the Czech Army with a highly mobile and survivable shield against low-altitude threats, fully interoperable with NATO systems and tactics.
