Switzerland’s most significant military modernisation in decades faces internal political disputes and constitutional constraints. Defence Minister Martin Pfister warns the country confronts its “most dangerous security environment in decades,” but his proposals often meet resistance within the federal government.
Recent reforms include:
• Reorganising the Swiss armed forces to strengthen territorial defence, decentralising the air force and reshaping the army and military police.
• Drafting the nation’s first national security strategy, outlining threats and co-ordination without major funding commitments.
• Relaxing parts of the War Material Act to ease arms re-exports, though Ukraine remains excluded.
• Proposing a temporary VAT increase from 8.1% to 8.9% (2028–2038) to fund defence, pending a referendum.
Analysts stress Switzerland’s infrastructure and defence capabilities remain vulnerable, with neutrality and strict fiscal rules slowing urgent reforms.
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