Switzerland is reviewing a European alternative to the U.S.-made Patriot air defense system after Washington postponed the delivery of five missile batteries.
The delay comes at a time when the United States is prioritizing military supplies to Ukraine, raising uncertainty over whether Switzerland will receive the Patriot systems it ordered.
According to Swissinfo, Switzerland is analyzing the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System (SAMP/T), developed by a Franco-Italian consortium under the framework of the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR).
The SAMP/T system is regarded as one of the most credible European alternatives to the Patriot platform.
Local media report that manufacturers have indicated delivery of the SAMP/T system could be completed by 2029 if Switzerland places an order now.
Political dissatisfaction is growing within Switzerland.
Green Party lawmaker Clarence Chollet said he views “this European alternative very positively,” adding that the Patriot system “will not arrive in Switzerland for years, or perhaps not at all.”
The Swiss Ministry of Defense has not ruled out the possibility of a shift.
Robert Scheidegger, Deputy Secretary-General of the ministry, said the government would discuss the matter in the Federal Council before making any decision public.
However, withdrawing from the agreement with the United States could entail financial and diplomatic risks. Switzerland has already paid approximately 700 million Swiss francs as an advance payment.
Swiss People’s Party lawmaker Mauro Tuena warned that pulling out of the contract could trigger penalties and potentially affect the planned purchase of U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets.
It remains unclear whether the Patriot systems will be delivered by 2030 and at what cost.
