Army underestimated F-35 housing costs

Thursday, 22 January 2026 06:30

The cost of buying American F-35 fighter jets continue to rise, but in this instance, the problems are all home grown.

The jets need new infrastructure, such as hangers, more security and longer runways.

The army had estimated CHF 120m - and that’s been approved by parliament.

But now the Federal Audit Office says the army needs an additional CHF 80m at least - maybe even a further CHF 50m.

Auditors slam the army for sloppy estimates and late warnings, saying higher costs were predictable from the start.

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