The Namest nad Oslavou Air Base, which is located in the Czech Republic, will be opening its doors to the public in 2024. This much-awaited event will feature a variety of air and ground displays that will undoubtedly leave visitors in awe.

Namest nad Oslavou Air Base, a Czech military airfield located near the town of Namest, is eagerly preparing to open its gates to the public in 2024. The air base, once strictly reserved for military activities, is gearing up to host an array of exciting air shows and ground displays. Visitors can expect to witness thrilling aerobatic performances, get up close with vintage and modern aircraft, and participate in interactive exhibits that showcase the history and technology of aviation. With its rich military history and modern equipment, Nemest nad Oslavou Air Base promises to offer an unforgettable experience for aviation enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Aircraft at the Open Day 2024

The Namest nad Oslavou Air Base in the Vysocina region is all set to host an open-day event on Wednesday, May 1st, 2024, after a six-year hiatus. The event is intended for the general public, and visitors can expect an exciting and informative day out.

The open day event promises to be an exciting affair, with Brigadier General Rudolf Straka, the Commander of the 22nd Helicopter Air Force Base, inaugurating the event. This will be followed by a stunning aerial display featuring mass flyovers of H-1, Mi-171, and JAS-39 Gripens. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness these marvels of engineering in action as they soar through the skies above.

The Czech Army has planned an impressive display of military equipment that includes air and ground units. Visitors can look forward to an exciting and up-close encounter with some of the most advanced aviation technology. For the first time ever, there will be a flight demonstration of the new Venom and Viper helicopters to introduce them to the public. Visitors can also get a firsthand look at transport helicopters, including the Mi-171S and the W-3A Sokol.

Apart from this, Visitors can expect to see some of the most impressive jets, including JAS-39 Gripen and L-159 Alca. These aircraft are usually based at the 21st Tactical Air Force Base, which is situated in the town of Caslav.

Transport aircraft, such as the versatile CASA-295 and the L-410, are also set to be on display. These aircraft are designed to carry out a variety of missions, such as cargo transportation, search and rescue operations, and military manoeuvres. They are known for their durability, reliability, and flexibility.

The Enstrom 480 training helicopter, Zlin Z-142 with Martin Sonka, and L-39C Albatros will arrive from the Pardubice Aviation Training Center. These aircraft are primarily used for training purposes and are designed to provide pilots with a safe and reliable platform for learning the basics of flying.

In addition to these aircraft, visitors can also expect to see the AH-1S Cobra helicopter, the Bell 412 police helicopter, and historic aircraft from the Red Baron group. These aircraft have played a significant role in aviation history and are known for their unique design and capabilities.

The ground attractions

The event is set to showcase an impressive array of ground equipment, providing visitors with a detailed look into the latest military technology. The vehicles on display include the IVECO, Pandur II, Kajman, Dingo vehicle, Leopard tank, and T-72 M4CZ, each designed to meet the specific requirements of modern combat situations.

In addition to these vehicles, visitors can also expect to see engineering equipment from the 15th Engineer Regiment in Bechyne, such as the Talon pyrotechnic robot and the EOD pyrotechnic suit. These advanced machines are designed to provide precise and efficient support to military personnel in challenging situations. Visitors will also have the opportunity to view air defence equipment from the 25th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment in Strakonice, designed to provide critical protection against threats from the air.

Apart from the military equipment displays, visitors can enjoy a range of exciting events, including a performance by the Olomouc Military Band and the Honorary Unit of the Czech Army. There will also be a demonstration of the MUSADO martial arts and training of service dogs and raptors. Visitors can try the crash simulator during a traffic accident, which is directed by the BESIP coordinator. They can also look forward to the Rally Dakar racing duo Tomas Ourednicek and David Kripal with their racing Toyota Hilux GR T1+.

Visitors can also enjoy refreshments in the airport area. The organizers have made sure that ample parking is available for the convenience of visitors. Parking will be provided both inside the airport area and in adjacent areas near the village of Sedlec and in the Vícenice barracks.

The open-day event will begin at 9:00 a.m. and close at 4:00 p.m., giving visitors ample time to explore all the exciting displays and events. Admission is free for all visitors, but parking will be charged. With a rich program of displays and events, this open-day event promises to be an exciting and informative day out for visitors of all ages.

Venom and Viper debut display

It has been announced that a flight demonstration of the new Venom and Viper helicopters will take place for the first time ever. The Czech Republic had previously planned to acquire four AH-1Zs and eight UH-1Ys in a deal worth over $600 million, which was finalized by the nation's former Defence Minister Lubomir Metnar in 2019. However, in August 2022, the Pentagon decided to transfer an additional six Vipers and two Venoms to the Czech Air Force under the US Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program as a recognition of the Czech Republic's continued support for Ukraine.

The eight extra helicopters will be sourced from US Marine Corps stocks and brought up to the same operational standard as the initial new-build examples. These helicopters are expected to provide the Czech Republic with a significant boost in their military capabilities. The AH-1Z Viper is a twin-engine attack helicopter designed to provide close air support for ground troops, while the UH-1Y Venom is a utility helicopter that can transport troops and equipment, as well as provide medical evacuation services.

The Czech Air Force will have a chance to exhibit their new rotorcraft and demonstrate their capabilities to potential allies and partners through a demonstration. The event is expected to attract a large audience and media attention. The demonstration will also allow the Czech public to compare the performance of the new helicopters with the previously operated Mi-24 Hind.