Switzerland approves funding for F-35 fighter jet purchase

Switzerland’s upper house of parliament has approved additional funding to support the purchase of American-made F-35 fighter jets.

The Council of States approved 394 million Swiss francs (approximately $496 million) in extra funding for the procurement program, the Tribune de Genève reported.

“The Council of States approved an additional 394 million francs for F-35 fighter jets,” the article stated.

The decision was taken during discussions on the country’s 2026 defence report, which also outlined broader military spending plans totalling 3.4 billion francs.

Swiss authorities have emphasised a focus on strengthening ground-based air defence capabilities, improving protection against small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and expanding cybersecurity infrastructure.

The additional funding will help facilitate the purchase of at least 30 F-35 fighter jets as part of Switzerland’s ongoing air force modernisation programme.

By Sabina Mammadli