Switzerland may abandon Patriot: What is the reason
Photo: Patriot air defense system (Getty Images)
Switzerland has suspended payments to the US for the Patriot missile system due to uncertainty over delivery timelines. The government did not rule out that the contract could ultimately be terminated, according to Reuters.
According to a statement by the Swiss government, the delivery schedule for the system remains uncertain, as do the timelines for further payments.
Swiss Defense Minister Martin Pfister said that the government still expects to purchase the Patriot system, but does not rule out any scenario.
"We are currently negotiating all possible options with the United States, and that includes a potential termination," he noted.
At the same time, Pfister clarified that it is currently unclear under what conditions such a cancellation could take place at all.
Separately, the government said it has postponed the payment deadline for the F-35A fighter jet order to the end of March 2026. Bern explained that it does not want the uncertainty surrounding the Patriot system to jeopardize the aircraft purchase.
The Defense Ministry added that it plans to inform the Swiss Federal Council by the end of June about further steps regarding the Patriot procurement.
On March 20, the Swiss government officially blocked arms exports to the US and other countries involved in the conflict with Iran, citing its neutrality policy. Bern also stated that, due to Washington’s involvement in the war, it cannot issue new licenses for the sale of military materials.
In addition, Switzerland has begun restricting the use of its airspace for operations against Iran. Some US requests for overflight of military aircraft have already been denied, and existing contracts for the supply of weapons and dual-use goods have been placed under additional scrutiny.
