>The questionable survivability of 20-ton self-propelled mortars AM120 does not prevent the Czech Republic and Slovakia from considering their purchase
Boris Gulkevich July 16, 2026, 16:55 8932
Self-propelled mortar complex AM120. Photo: ZTS Špecial
The Czech Republic and Slovakia have agreed on joint defense procurement, which will include Tatra trucks, as well as potentially L-39 aircraft and the rather questionable AM120 self-propelled mortars
The Czech Republic and Slovakia will consider the joint procurement of the massive 20-ton AM120 (SAM120) self-propelled 120-mm mortars for their mechanized forces. In this regard, a framework agreement for joint armament acquisition has been signed.
This was announced at a meeting of the defense ministers of both countries. At this event, the Czechs also signed a document on future accession to the Slovak memorandum for the procurement of Tatra T815 trucks in 25 different modifications.
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Self-propelled mortar complex AM120. Photo: ZTS Špecial
It is noted that the joint purchase of such automotive equipment will help reduce the cost of the contract. The Czech military is currently considering 15 out of 25 possible modifications of the vehicle and must make a final decision by the end of August.
It was also added that Slovakia is considering a potential order for Czech L-39 training and combat aircraft. The possible use of such aircraft for hunting drones, as proposed to Ukraine, or as a surveillance platform was mentioned.
Training and combat aircraft L-39NG Skyfox. Photo: AERO Vodochody
From Defense Express, we note that this appears to be a joint procurement by two countries choosing each other’s products. This provides not only political and financial bonuses but also utilizes the existing experience of cooperation between the Czech and Slovak defense industries.
On one hand, the AM120 seems like a logical solution that would support the industries of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. On the other hand, it is an automated 120-mm mortar mounted on a rather large Tatra T815 truck with a 6×6 wheel formula.
Self-propelled mortar AM120 without turret armor during tests
The result is a highly visible vehicle weighing almost 20 tons, with a range of approximately 8-9 km, meaning it must operate close to the front lines, where it becomes very vulnerable to drones and other weaponry. Of course, there is armor protection for the cabin and combat compartment, but it provides only a fairly basic level of defense.
In addition, UAVs serve not only as a means of destruction but also for reconnaissance, significantly reducing the time for target detection. Thus, the advantage of the “shoot and scoot” approach is seriously diminished, especially within 10 km of the line of combat contact.
Self-propelled mortar complex AM120. Photo: CZdefence
It can also be mentioned that the cost of one AM120 is estimated at approximately 2 million euros each. A similar price resulted from the only order for these systems placed by Azerbaijan. The latter intends to acquire up to 300 units.
Of course, the Czech Republic and Slovakia may understand and perceive their needs differently than in Ukraine. Also, the final decision has not yet been made, and the parties are only considering the AM120 for now. However, given the industrial advantages, there is a possibility that this will turn into a firm contract.
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