Switzerland seeks 970m-franc air defence boost

Switzerland's government said on August 19 it would ask parliament for an additional 970 million Swiss francs for its 2026 budget to speed air defence acquisitions.

The government said the money would go towards down payments for short-range and medium-range ground-to-air defence systems, a medium-range semi-stationary radar and mini-drone defence capabilities.

It said hybrid operations and long-range attacks were the most likely threats to Switzerland, and that the armed forces lacked the resources needed to provide sufficient protection against aerial threats.

The government also cited pressure on the international arms market, saying high demand and limited production capacity were lengthening delivery times. It said manufacturers were increasingly asking for substantial down payments, without which urgent acquisitions could be delayed for years.

In March, Bern requested 3.4 billion francs for this year's armament programme. The additional funding still needs parliamentary approval.

Switzerland is awaiting delivery of US F-35A fighter jets, while Bern and Washington dispute the final price and the order faces delays. The government has also said it is considering buying a European surface-to-air defence system alongside the delayed Patriot system ordered from the United States.

The government said it also plans to invest another 100 million francs in coming years to strengthen security at more than 60 military sites, with the work to be completed no later than the start of 2029.

Parliament also still needs to vote on a proposed value-added tax increase through 2040 to help finance army defence spending priorities.