Switzerland, despite the imposition of 39% tariffs by the United States, will continue in the acquisition of F-35A fighter bombers and MiM-104 Patriot missile systems.
After days of speculation about a possible Swiss rethink in retaliation, Federal President Karin Keller-Sutter herself confirmed the commitments made by Bern with Washington.
The dispute over price increases between Bern and Washington
The Swiss Government believes the F-35A and Patriot systems are essential for air and missile defense of the Confederation, despite the increased cost due to soaring material prices and inflation supported by the Trump administration.
There is a negotiation table open between Switzerland and the United States, with the former asserting that the fixed price of $7.5 billion for the purchase of 34 F-35As was put in writing and included safeguard clauses in the event of any price increases.
Any retaliation will be decided in sectors other than Defense, deemed crucial in the current state of international tension.
The trip of Armasuisse to the United States
Besides, a delegation from Armasuisse recently visited the United States to meet representatives of Lockheed Martin.
The focus of these talks were the obligations relating to offset business within the regular coordination phases for the advancement of the project.
It is noteworthy that the Swiss F-35A program also affects Italy, as a significant part of Swiss Lightning II will be set up and subsequently maintained by the FACO of Cameri, thanks to the agreements between Bern and Rome.
Photo credit @Lockheed Martin
