Since War Thunder aims to represent the full scope of global military technology, the addition of more Slovakian vehicles would be an exciting and historically significant improvement to the game. Slovakia, though a relatively small nation, has a rich military production history that combines domestic innovation and licensed designs adapted for local use.
After the split of Czechoslovakia in 1993, Slovakia continued to modernize its military equipment, maintaining and upgrading Soviet-era vehicles and developing its own modifications. Several Slovak-designed or co-produced vehicles would fit naturally into War Thunder’s ground forces and air trees, either as part of a Czechoslovak or Central European subtree, or integrated into an existing nation such as the Czech tree under the USSR or an independent tech tree.
Potential Slovakian Additions
- Ground Forces:
- BVP-M2 “Šakal” – A modernized version of the BMP-1 featuring advanced armor, a 30mm cannon, and modern optics.
- T-72M2 Moderna – A heavily upgraded Slovak variant of the T-72, featuring a 125mm gun with twin 20mm cannons and enhanced fire-control systems.
- OA-82 Jarmila II – A locally designed armored car used during the Cold War era.
- BMP-1MS / BVP-M – Slovak modernization of the BMP-1 platform with new electronics and improved protection.
- Air Forces:
- MiG-29AS – Slovak modernized MiG-29 with NATO-compatible avionics.
- L-39CM / L-159 ALCA (Slovak service) – Advanced jet trainers and light attack aircraft co-developed and used in Slovak Air Force service.
- Zlin Z-142 and Z-143 – Trainer and light attack aircraft options that could fill lower-rank aviation roles.
Why Add Slovakian Vehicles?
- Diversity and Representation: Including Slovakia would highlight Central European military engineering and give smaller nations more recognition.
- Gameplay Variety: Slovak modernizations introduce hybrid designs—mixing Soviet foundations with Western tech—that could create unique playstyles.
- Historical Accuracy: Many Slovak units served under both Warsaw Pact and NATO contexts, offering content for both Cold War and modern scenarios.
Possible Implementation
- Add as part of a Czechoslovak subtree (similar to how South Africa is under Britain).
- Introduce as a Central European coalition tree with Czech, Slovak, and Polish vehicles.
- Feature as premium or event vehicles representing Slovak modernization efforts.
Conclusion
By adding Slovak vehicles, War Thunder could capture an underrepresented segment of European military history. These additions would not only expand gameplay depth but also celebrate the innovation and legacy of Slovakia’s defense industry—from Cold War heritage to modern NATO-era advancements.