Defence market in Slovakia

Slovakia has a strong defense sector with proven experience. There are both state-owned and private companies in the country. Slovakia primarily produces:

  • armored vehicles
  • howitzers
  • weapons
  • ammunition
  • simulators

There are also joint projects between Slovak and foreign companies, where production is split between both countries.

The most important state player in Slovakia’s defense sector is the Ministry of Defence (MOD), which procures defense products directly, without a distributor's involvement.

Key opportunities for Canadian defence companies in Slovakia

  • Military hospitals
  • Pistols
  • Aircrafts

Industry highlights

1.7B € — Slovakia's defence spending in 2024

4 200 jobs in Slovakia’s defence sector

40 Slovak defence companies active in Slovakia

2.2% to 2.5% — Expected share of total spending on defence in 2025

3 Canadian companies active in Slovakia’s defence market

1.15B € — Total value of defence exports in 2024

Notable challenges for Canadian defence companies in Slovakia

  • Strong support for purchasing from local companies
  • Plans can shift with each change in government

Ongoing public procurements

  • Modernization of some parts of the military airport
  • Simulator for F-16 aircraft

Summary

The Ministry of Defense is responsible for military equipment procurement in Slovakia. Most purchases go through public tenders, but some are made directly. Companies must monitor public procurement using:

The MOD prefers to purchase domestically produced equipment, or foreign equipment that includes a share of domestic production. In Slovakia, there are almost no distributors of military equipment, only a few small ones. Each company must submit its own bid for a tender, which could pose challenges. 

To succeed in this market, we recommend finding and partnering with a Slovak defence company.

For more information on defence in the Slovak market, please contact Trade Commissioner, Natalia Barinkova (natalia.barinkova@international.gc.ca) - defence. 

Additional Information

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