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US diverting Swiss defence payments

Friday, 27 March 2026 06:30

Patriot missile - file image

Switzerland’s defence procurement row with the United States is deepening.

Bern halted payments last autumn for Patriot missiles over delivery delays, but Swiss broadcaster SRF reports the freeze is being bypassed.

Under the US Foreign Military Sales programme, Washington is redirecting Swiss funds earmarked for the F-35 to cover Patriot costs.

Armasuisse director Urs Loher confirmed the move, saying a “low three-digit million” sum, well over CHF 100m, has already been shifted.

He called the situation “very unsatisfactory,” warning it leaves a funding gap for Switzerland’s F-35 programme and increases pressure on the defence budget.

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