Switzerland Seeks EU Defense Partnership Amid Dispute Over 36 F-35A Jets and $1.35 Billion Price Increase

Switzerland is seeking to enhance its defense cooperation with the European Union by initiating exploratory talks on a defense procurement partnership. This move comes amid ongoing tensions with the United States over the purchase of 36 F-35A fighter jets from Lockheed Martin. The Swiss government had anticipated a fixed price for the jets, but the U.S. now claims this was a misunderstanding and is demanding up to $1.35 billion more, complicating the procurement process.

Swiss Defense Minister Viola Amherd had promised a fixed price, but it has emerged that the agreed price excludes much of the armament, which will incur additional costs. The Swiss Federal Council is pursuing diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute, with Ambassador Gabriel Lüchinger playing a potentially key role. Switzerland has already paid 700 million Swiss francs for the jets but retains the option to withdraw from the contract, though this would involve substantial penalties. Meanwhile, Switzerland's interest in joining the EU's defense procurement projects aims to secure better pricing and a strategic position in future arms deals without compromising its traditional neutrality. The dispute over the F-35 jets adds to existing strains in U.S.-Swiss relations, including tariff disagreements. Alternative European fighter jets like the Rafale or Eurofighter are currently not viable options for Switzerland.