The Czech manufacturer of small jet motors PBS GROUP operates in a field where technological precision goes hand in hand with responsibility for safety and export control. Its motors are classified as military material in the Czech Republic, which means that their export is subject not only to standard trade regulations but also to strict control measures.

The global security situation and the resulting growing demand for PBS GROUP products have transformed this traditional Czech company, which until a few years ago primarily focused on civilian production programmes, into one largely dedicated to exporting military equipment. This inevitably places much greater demands on security. The company has successfully passed a number of inspections, including licensing procedures for the export of military equipment. "Our products are cutting-edge technology that impacts the defence capabilities of nations. That is why we emphasize that they never fall into the wrong hands," Pavel Čechal, PBS GROUP's CEO, told CZ DEFENCE.

Consistent multi-level control

Obtaining an export licence for military equipment in the Czech Republic is a complex process ensuring that each export is carefully vetted from multiple perspectives. A total of four ministries are involved in this process. The main coordinator of the process is the Ministry of Industry and Trade. It receives export licence applications, handles the administrative processing and is also responsible for ensuring that all legal requirements and regulations relating to exports are met. "Cooperation with the Ministry of Industry is absolutely crucial. It is about making sure that the administrative process is as efficient as possible and that all safety standards are maintained," says Čechal.

From a foreign policy perspective, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs assesses export licences. It examines the risks associated with potential end-users and their impact on international security. The Ministry of Defence assesses whether the export will undermine the security of the Czech Republic and its defence interests. This step is important to ensure that Czech technology is not misused against national interests. Another government agency involved in the process is the Ministry of the Interior, which focuses on preventing violations of arms and sensitive material control rules and minimising the risk of misuse. "Each of these steps adds another level of control, ensuring that the final outcome aligns with both security requirements and international standards," Pavel Čechal said.

Careful customer screening

One of the most important steps in obtaining an export licence for military-use material is thoroughly vetting the end user of the product, such as a small aircraft engine or APU. This process includes identifying and verifying the buyer, assessing the risks associated with potential misuse, and checking compliance with international sanctions and embargoes. "End-user vetting is not just a formal procedure, but also a vital part of our responsibility. We need to be sure that our technology will not be misused," emphasises Pavel Čechal.

Export licences as a protective measure

The export licensing system in the Czech Republic is designed to minimise the risk of misuse of military equipment and to ensure that exports are carried out in accordance with international security standards. This strict control regime strengthens the confidence of foreign partners in Czech suppliers and ensures that the Czech Republic remains a reliable player in the global military equipment market.

"Export licences are certainly not merely a bureaucratic measure, but an essential safeguard that protects not only our company but also the international community from the risk of advanced technology misuse," Čechal says. "Thanks to this process, we can guarantee our foreign customers that cooperation with PBS GROUP is not only a guarantee of quality, but also a responsible approach to international security," added the PBS GROUP CEO.

The export regime in the Czech Republic is part of ensuring a safe and responsible approach to the development and distribution of military equipment. For PBS GROUP, a quality licensing process is a means and a basic condition for the company's rapid growth in foreign markets at a time when there is a huge demand for its products. It allows the company to further consolidate its position as a reliable and responsible international partner in ensuring the defence of many countries, including a large part of the North Atlantic Alliance.