And the Swiss government also announced that as well as acquiring a Patriot System, it was looking at "an additional long-range surface-to-air missile system, preferably produced in Europe".

The statement cited "the tense geopolitical situation and the growing threat posed by long-range weapons".

"In view of the deteriorating security situation," the government is reaffirming its December 2025 decision to procure F-35A fighter jets, it said in a statement.

"The aim is to purchase the maximum number of aircraft possible within the funding authorised by the people."

The defence ministry currently estimates "that 30 F-35A fighter jets can be procured", the statement said.

"The exact number cannot be determined until the US government and manufacturers have finalised negotiations on the remaining aircraft and engines for the next production batches."

Switzerland struck a contract to buy 36 new Lockheed Martin F-35A fighter jets.

The F-35A combat aircraft -- already used by the US Air Force and several European countries -- was chosen in June 2021, instead of the Airbus Eurofighter, the F/A-18 Super Hornet by Boeing, and French firm Dassault's Rafale.

But Bern and Washington have been quibbling over the final price of the planes, bought to replace the ageing Swiss fleet.

Switzerland's long-standing position has been one of well-armed military neutrality and the landlocked European country has mandatory conscription for men.

apo/rjm/nl/jj

LOCKHEED MARTIN

BOEING

Dassault Aviation