Switzerland Weighs Israeli, French Missile Defense Systems

Switzerland's Federal Council, the country's government, has tasked its defense ministry with a thorough evaluation of two long-range air defense systems: Israel's Barak MX, manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries, and the French SAMP/T NG. These two systems were chosen from proposals by four manufacturers. They are intended to complement the previously selected American Patriot systems. The government emphasized the urgent need for Switzerland to acquire another air defense system to provide broader territorial protection and reduce reliance on a single supplier, citing the deteriorating geopolitical situation. Deliveries of the Patriot systems have encountered difficulties, as the U.S. has prioritized countries that have supplied Ukraine with their own air defense systems, and a deal with Germany for Patriots for Switzerland did not materialize. Despite these issues, the government believes acquiring Patriots is essential and that the defense ministry will proceed with the project with minimal delays and additional costs. Switzerland's defense procurement agency, Armasuisse, plans to purchase military equipment directly from U.S. manufacturers in the future, bypassing the U.S. government. The acquisition of a second air defense system was delayed after parliamentarians rejected a request for its urgent consideration. A bill allocating an additional 24 billion Swiss francs for defense will be debated during the parliament's winter session. This sum includes 6 billion francs for the additional long-range air defense system and funds to cover at least part of the increased costs for the Patriot systems. Future steps for the project depend on the parliament's decision.