Switzerland joins Germany’s Sky Shield with new air defence agreement

Switzerland and Germany have agreed to jointly procure IRIS-T SLM air defence systems, officials announced on Thursday, as part of Berlin’s European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI).
The agreement was signed by Swiss National Armaments Director Urs Loher and German Vice Admiral Carsten Stawitzki. The Swiss government stated that the deal would allow Switzerland to benefit from cost efficiencies and enhanced interoperability. The new systems will replace outdated Swiss Armed Forces air defence equipment and bolster protection against long-range threats.
The Swiss Federal Office for Defence Procurement plans to acquire five IRIS-T SLM systems from German manufacturer Diehl Defence GmbH. The government emphasised that the programme aligns with Switzerland’s neutrality laws, with no obligation to integrate the systems into German or NATO defence networks. Switzerland retains full autonomy over their operation and deployment.
Launched by Germany in 2022, the ESSI aims to strengthen European air defence through coordinated procurement and improved system compatibility. Switzerland joined the initiative in October 2024. (ILKHA)
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