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4d ago

U.S. 39% Tariff Fuels Push to Rethink Swiss F-35 Deal

The unprecedented trade levy has sharpened cross-party calls to pause or abandon future deliveries as pricing disputes remain unresolved.

An Israeli air force F-35 flies over during a graduation ceremony for new pilots on June 29, 2023.
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Overview

  • President Trump’s 39% tariff on Swiss imports, effective Aug. 7, has reignited political opposition to the CHF6.25 billion F-35A purchase.
  • Defence Minister Martin Pfister affirmed that the existing F-35 contract will proceed and proposed fresh U.S. arms orders to seek tariff relief.
  • Swiss Greens and Free Democratic Party lawmakers have filed motions to halt upcoming F-35 tranches or explore European fighter alternatives.
  • Negotiations with the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency over cost-sharing obligations continue to leave final jet pricing in flux.
  • Swiss exporter Pilatus halted business jet deliveries to the U.S. on Aug. 8, illustrating the immediate industrial impact of the tariffs.