Overview

• Switzerland reaffirmed its commitment to buy 36 Lockheed Martin F-35A jets despite U.S. tariffs that could boost the bill by 650 million to 1.3 billion Swiss francs.
• Intensive negotiations failed to secure a fixed total price, overturning Bern’s original 6 billion-franc budget for the fighter acquisition.
• The government warned that final costs will depend on U.S. inflation, global commodity prices and how much of the 39 percent tariff is passed through.
• Defense Minister Martin Pfister said Switzerland may reduce its order while emphasizing the F-35’s superior capabilities compared with other aircraft.
• The defense ministry has until the end of November to review air-defense needs and recommend adjustments to quantities and the 2027–2030 delivery timeline.