Detailed analysis of the real cost, security risks, and strategic implications of Switzerland’s purchase of F-35s.

Switzerland is investing in the F-35 Switzerland as part of the Air 2030 program, which aims to modernize its aviation. The purchase of 36 fighter jets from manufacturer Lockheed Martin represents a turning point for the Swiss Air Force. The choice was based on an assessment that took into account performance, purchase costs, and long-term economic factors. However, unexpected additional costs and operational and strategic security issues are sparking a rigorous technical debate.

In this article, we review the various aspects: the announced stabilized budget, financial deviations during the contract, safety issues related to fighter jet flight, the integration of the F-35 into Swiss airspace, and strategic alignment with allies.

The announced budget for the Swiss F-35

On June 30, 2021, the Federal Council proposed the purchase of 36 F-35A aircraft at a cost of CHF 6,036 million (≈ €6.48 billion). This budget covers:

• CHF 3,828 million for the airframe,
• CHF 1,927 million for logistics, training and infrastructure,
• CHF 107 million for ammunition,
• CHF 86 million for planning systems,
• CHF 87 million in reserves (CHF 82 million for risks, CHF 5 million for inflation).

The first aircraft will be manufactured in the United States (eight units from 2027 for training), 24 in Italy (Leonardo) and four assembled in Switzerland by RUAG as part of offset agreements. Annual operating costs are estimated at CHF 9.66 million per aircraft, or CHF 347 million per year for the fleet. Over 30 years, the total purchase and operating costs are estimated at CHF 15.5 billion (≈ €16.6 billion).

Additional costs and contractual tensions

Despite a so-called “fixed-price” contract, various factors are disrupting the budget. In June 2025, Switzerland reported additional costs of CHF 500 million to CHF 1.5 billion. The US government cited inflation, rising raw material and energy costs, arguing that the fixed clause was time-limited.

Reuters reported that the adjustment could reach CHF 1.5 billion (≈ €1.6 billion). This dispute has led Switzerland to enter into diplomatic discussions with the US authorities and the DSCA. The issue at stake is whether the contract signed in September 2022 (valid for 10 years) includes adjustments.

To date, the Swiss government has defended the initial price, which it believes covered the estimated variations. But the US partners are insisting on adjusting the amount. Blocking the agreement could compromise delivery deadlines and create a capacity gap as early as 2032, as the Swiss F/A-18s are phased out.

Impact on fighter aircraft flight safety

The F-35A is a latest-generation aircraft with stealth capabilities, integrated avionics, and secure data links. It performs multiple missions, including air defense, surveillance, and precision strikes. For Switzerland, this means a major upgrade to its air security. The Federal Council and the DDPS emphasize that it is an effective replacement for the F/A-18 and F-5, ensuring efficient air policing.

A crucial technical issue concerns noise levels: initial measurements confirm that the F-35 is around 3 dB louder than the F/A-18C/D, which has local implications, particularly in Valais and French-speaking Switzerland, around Payerne and Emmen. The acoustic impact must be assessed and mitigation measures defined.

Another issue is IT security. The F-35 transports and exchanges sensitive data. Integration into a non-NATO country without equivalent US classification poses risks to data confidentiality, training, and the supply chain. US protocols require secure bases, which has led to close security measures, particularly around Unterbach, to prevent any collection of information by foreign services.

Strategic issues and interoperability

Strategically, the F-35 allows Switzerland to interoperate with allies such as NATO and the EU, particularly for exercises such as Frontex and joint ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance). Its adoption is motivated as much by technical efficiency as by integration into a shared defense network.

The main competitor, the Dassault Rafale, is estimated to be 15% more expensive over 30 years (≈ 20.1 billion CHF compared to 18.2 for the F-35). The Eurofighter Typhoon and Boeing F/A-18E/F were generally more expensive over their lifetime.

Switzerland’s neutral security policy is at odds with its dependence on the United States. Some, such as the “Stop F-35” movement and the GSoA, believe that a non-US fighter jet would have been more in line with Switzerland’s neutrality. Another criticism is that the presence of US equipment on board will make Switzerland dependent on Washington for logistical support and maintenance.

The Swiss decision

The order for the F-35s in Switzerland is both an ambitious technological project and a delicate financial and diplomatic operation. The initial budget, calibrated by Air 2030, was technically sound, distinguishing between purchase costs, operating costs, and provisions for uncertainties. But implementation has revealed the fragility of “fixed-price” contracts in an inflationary context and with post-COVID industrial constraints.

The expected additional costs of between CHF 0.5 and 1.5 billion are testing the strength of bilateral commitments. The US industry is playing for time: without clear agreements, Swiss planning could falter, as could the planned delivery schedule between 2027 and 2030.

In terms of technology and safety, the reliability and modernity of the F-35 give the Swiss air police an undeniable advantage. However, Switzerland must strengthen its digital protection systems, ensure that its infrastructure complies with US standards, and limit noise pollution. Diplomatic involvement is significant: the handling of the Unterbach controversy is a striking example of this.