The joint-stock company "Ukrainian Defense Industry" has announced on its official platforms that in November of this year, licensed assembly of BREN-2 assault rifles commenced, a result of collaboration with Česká zbrojovka, a subsidiary of the renowned Czech Colt CZ.
"The partnership with our Czech colleagues will enhance the supply of reliable and modern firearms produced in our country to meet the needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. Additionally, this marks another step towards integrating our defense industry into the industrial chains of NATO countries," commented Oleg Hulyak, CEO of Ukroboronprom.
In light of the assembly of these Czech assault rifles starting in Ukraine, let’s recall the background leading up to this project, which can be traced back to September-October 2023, when the Czech Ministry of Defense announced the beginning of negotiations with Ukraine regarding the localization of CZ BREN-2 assault rifles (CZ BREN 806), under the localized name "Sich."
Subsequently, at the end of February this year, it was officially reported about the signing of a letter of intent between Ukroboronprom and Česká zbrojovka concerning the transfer of the license.
Ultimately, as reported by Ukroboronprom, the final agreement for the initial licensed assembly, and subsequently full production of Czech BREN-2 assault rifles, was signed on July 16 of this year. Thus, approximately four months elapsed from the signing of the agreement to the start of assembly.
From the beginning of negotiations, taking into account all organizational processes and so forth, it has been about a year and two months.
It is also important to mention that plans to build a cartridge factory in Ukraine in cooperation with Sellier & Bellot, which is part of the Colt CZ Group, have been previously confirmed.
Earlier, Defense Express reported that Washington has met the promised pace of arms assistance in time for Trump's inauguration.