By The Smartencyclopedia Staff & Agencies
Bern, Switzerland — Swiss authorities have presented a multi-billion funding request to bolster the nation’s armed forces, as announced by Defence Minister Viola Amherd and Army Chief Thomas Süssli outside the parliament in Bern. Against the backdrop of discussions on the financial state of the armed forces, Amherd unveiled a proposed budget of 4.9 billion Swiss Francs ($5.5 billion) for military armament, disclosed on February 14, 2024.
The proposed budget, intended to cover the period from 2025 to 2028, suggests a spending limit of 25.8 billion Swiss Francs. The government’s proposal encompasses five federal decrees to be presented to the parliament, to set the strategic direction of the army until 2035. These decrees encompass the procurement of military equipment from 2024 to 2027, totaling 3.52 billion Swiss Francs; an armament program for 2024 amounting to 490 million Swiss Francs; a budget of 886 million Swiss Francs allocated for the Defence Ministry’s infrastructure projects; and the aforementioned spending limit for the armed forces.
This initiative reflects a broader shift in European defense strategy post-Cold War, with countries moving from downsizing military forces to reinvesting in military capabilities due to emerging armed conflicts. Switzerland, although not a member of the European Union, is aligning with this trend. The decision by the parliament to increase the military budget to 1% of GDP by 2035 signifies a strategic move to swiftly address capability gaps and enhance defense preparedness.
Amherd emphasized the opportunity for parliament to establish a long-term strategic vision and capabilities for the armed forces, marking a departure from previous practices. The strategy outlines ten key areas, including leadership, intelligence, cybersecurity, logistics, medical services, and various mobility and defense capabilities.
The financial plan for equipment procurement spans four years, ensuring stability in planning and expenditures, with an average annual budget of about 880 million Swiss Francs. This budget will support staff equipment, material replacement, project studies, and ammunition management.
In the proposed 2024 budget, the government is seeking 490 million Swiss Francs for armament. This includes funds for a new missile system for land forces valued at 210 million Swiss Francs, semi-stationary sensors for aircraft detection worth 40 million Swiss Francs, and investments in computing infrastructure and cybersecurity.
The 2024 construction program, with a budget of 886 million Swiss Francs, will finance the construction of the Kastro II computing center and various other infrastructure projects, underlining the government’s commitment to modernize and secure military facilities.
The proposed expenditure cap for 2025 to 2028 includes operational costs, armaments, capital expenditures, and a technical reserve, reflecting a planned real-term increase in military spending in the coming years.
Responding to concerns about a perceived “financial hole” in the army’s budget, Amherd clarified that the financial situation is stable. She dispelled rumors of insolvency, affirming responsible financial planning and the government’s commitment to meeting its military obligations.