Slovak State Arms Maker Behind Zuzana Howitzer Returns to Growth

Konštrukta – Defence, Slovakia's largest state-owned arms manufacturer and maker of the Zuzana self-propelled howitzer, returned to growth last year after two consecutive years of declining revenues, posting a profit of nearly 7 million euros. The recovery was driven largely by accelerated production of Zuzana howitzers destined for Ukraine, which has received the weapons as part of international military aid. The company also secured major contracts for Slovakia's own armed forces as well as Scandinavian defense firms, positioning it for continued growth in the coming years. Despite the rebound, Konštrukta – Defence remains significantly smaller than private Czech arms group Czechoslovak Group, owned by businessman Michal Strnad, which dominates the Central European defense manufacturing sector. The contrast highlights the gap between state-run and privately held defense firms in the region at a time when European governments are sharply increasing defense spending in response to Russia's war in Ukraine.