The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ANTITANK
A
N
T
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T
A
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K
More clues leading to the result ANTITANK
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "defensive equipment, /like Czech 24, perhaps" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case defensive equipment, /like czech 24, perhaps = antitank.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ANTITANK mean?
ANTITANK adjective- Of weapons or tactics, designed for attacking tanks or other armored vehicles.