Switzerland is adjusting its fighter aircraft procurement plans after rising costs prompted the government to reconsider the size of its planned fleet of F-35A jets. Instead of purchasing 36 aircraft as originally planned, the Swiss government now intends to acquire roughly 30 units. The F-35A was selected in 2021 after a competitive evaluation process that included the Airbus Eurofighter, Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet, and Dassault’s Rafale. However, price increases related to inflation and higher material and energy costs have complicated the agreement between Bern and Washington. Swiss officials said the additional costs required to maintain the original order would have exceeded the budget approved by voters during a national referendum. As a result, the government is exploring a smaller purchase while continuing negotiations with the United States and Lockheed Martin. At the same time, Switzerland is reviewing its broader defense strategy in response to changing security conditions in Europe. The government is considering additional investments in air defense systems, including a European-made surface-to-air platform that could complement the Patriot missile defense system already on order.
