Challenges to national defence in contemporary geopolitical situation

This article examines the physical fitness of young people in the Czech Republic. Unlike other studies addressing similar topics, it does not assess the individual components of physical abilities in isolation. Instead, an efficiency score is calculated using a multi‑criteria model based on four variables: shuttle run, long jump, the W170/kg test, and handgrip strength. This model produces an efficiency score for each participant, reflecting their overall level of physical fitness. The second stage of the analysis investigates whether these scores differ statistically significantly according to the type of school attended at the time of measurement. The comparison covers both general secondary schools (gymnasia) and technical/vocational secondary schools. The analysis also includes one military secondary school, which is the only institution of its kind in the Czech Republic. Data collected from 1,116 young people indicate that the type of school plays a significant role in determining physical fitness scores. Students attending the military secondary school achieve demonstrably better physical fitness outcomes compared to those from, for example, general academic secondary schools (gymnasia).

This longitudinal study examined sex‑specific changes in body composition across the first academic year in military university students using multi‑frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (InBody 970). A total of 497 cadets (408 men, 89 women) were assessed at baseline and follow‑up. In both sexes, body mass increased primarily due to gains in fat‑free mass and skeletal muscle mass, accompanied by higher total body water and basal metabolic rate, while changes in adiposity indicators were small. Men exhibited greater increases in lean‑related parameters, whereas women showed a modest reduction in percent body fat. These findings support MF‑BIA as a practical tool for large‑scale monitoring of functional and medical readiness in military populations.

The capacity of military organisations to sustain operational effectiveness depends increasingly on their ability to lead and retain Generation Z personnel (born 1996 – 2012) – the first fully digital cohort entering professional armed forces worldwide. This narrative literature review synthesises evidence on the leadership challenges and opportunities associated with Generation Z, with particular focus on the Czech Armed Forces (CAF). Drawing on generational theory, transformational and adaptive leadership models, as well as empirical military research (2019 – 2025), the paper identifies three analytical dimensions: generational characteristics in military contexts, leadership and development requirements, and institutional adaptation within the CAF. Evidence-based implications are developed for leadership doctrine, training design, and organisational culture.