Butolpost.com – The Swiss government is continuing its ambitious project to purchase fifth generation fighter jets despite being hit by a wave of resistance from within the country. Production of the advanced F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft made by Lockheed Martin has reportedly officially begun by the United States.
Switzerland’s defense procurement chief, Urs Loher, confirmed that the production process was proceeding as planned, refuting claims by activists who rejected the project. He said the first eight units are scheduled to arrive starting next year.
“Production has started, contrary to the claims of opponents,” Loher stressed in an interview with Swiss media.
Previously, activist groups in Switzerland launched a petition opposing the purchase of the fighter jet. They assess that the project costs have increased from the initial contract and say the F-35 does not meet the defense needs of this neutral country.
However, the Swiss government is sticking to the contract to purchase 30 F-35A units with a delivery schedule between 2027 and 2030. In fact, Loher stated that Switzerland’s ideal need is 55 to 70 fighter aircraft to strengthen national air defense.
As a temporary measure, the active F/A-18 Hornet fleet will continue to be operated to maintain combat readiness until all F-35s are received.
This decision marked a new chapter in the modernization of the Swiss military—and sparked a heated debate between defense needs and the burden on the state budget.
