International cooperation
The AOBP is an active participant in several key international organizations that focus on strengthening cooperation between industry and government institutions in the defence and security sector. These strategic international relationships help not only in the exchange of information and technological innovation, but also in promoting the interests of the Czech defence industry at the global level. The most important partnerships in which AOBP operates include:
1. NATO Industry Advisory Group (NIAG)
It is a NATO advisory group focused on providing industrial support to the Alliance. NIAG acts as a bridge between NATO and the defence industry, helping to identify the Alliance's needs in the areas of technological innovation, research and development. NIAG provides Alliance nations with access to industrial "know-how" in strategic, business and technological expertise and offers expert studies to support the development of NATO capabilities. The Czech Republic is represented in this group by the Czech Defence and Security Industry Association. The NIAG also offers industrial companies the opportunity to influence the development of system requirements and to network with experts from Alliance governments and industry.
2. NATO Science and Technology Organisation (STO)
Another important platform in which AOBP actively participates is the NATO Science and Technology Organisation (STO). The NATO STO focuses on scientific and technological progress in the field of defence through projects, conferences and working groups. AOBP supports initiatives that enable Czech companies to engage in research activities that are key to the development of new technologies such as advanced materials, autonomous systems, cyber security and other areas that are shaping the modern military environment. The link between Czech research capabilities and NATO brings benefits not only for individual companies but also for the overall strengthening of the technological capabilities of the Czech defence and security sector.
3. European Defence Agency (EDA)
At the European level, the AOBP cooperates, among others, with the European Defence Agency (EDA), a key institution of the European Union that focuses on ensuring interoperability and effectiveness of European defence capabilities. The EDA supports EU Member States in the field of defence policy and industry and helps coordinate research and development activities. The EDA actively contributes to initiatives that promote cooperation between European manufacturers and the creation of synergies that enhance European defence autonomy. Close cooperation with EDA enables Czech companies to participate in major European projects.
4. European Commission (DG DEFIS)
AOBP is also involved in the activities of DG DEFIS (Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space), the part of the European Commission responsible for policy and development of the European defence industry. DG DEFIS is tasked with promoting competitiveness and innovation in the defence and space industry, including through financial support such as grants and R&D programmes. AOBP actively supports the participation of member companies in European programmes. This includes areas such as the development of new technologies, ensuring military mobility within the EU and strengthening Member States' defence capabilities.
The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) is NATO's support and acquisition agency that provides logistics, technical support and centralised procurement for Alliance Member States. NSPA is a key platform for defence and security sector companies to engage in international procurement, particularly in the areas of maintenance, supply, infrastructure and defence systems modernisation. A video with instructions on how to navigate the NSPA can be found at this link.
