Following Canada, another country may reconsider its decision to acquire the fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighter jet from Lockheed Martin. A contract signed by Switzerland in 2022 for the purchase of 36 aircraft is now at the center of growing national controversy.
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Amid a tense geopolitical climate and growing distrust toward the United States, a significant portion of the Swiss population has begun to question the selection of the American aircraft. According to surveys conducted between March and April 2025, approximately 81% of Swiss citizens oppose the delivery of the F-35s. Opposition is especially high in the French-speaking part of the country, reaching 87%.
The reasons behind the discontent are varied: from distrust in U.S. intentions and a new wave of trade tariffs to the desire to reduce dependence on American technology. Under political pressure, calls for a shift toward European platforms are gaining traction.
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Alternatives Under Consideration: Rafale, Eurofighter, and Gripen
The Swiss Armed Forces are currently evaluating other options. These include the French Dassault Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon developed by a European consortium (Germany, the UK, Italy, and Spain), and Sweden’s Saab Gripen E.
The Rafale stands out for being free of U.S.-controlled components and for offering advanced radar and sophisticated electronic defenses. The Eurofighter, though integrated into NATO, is reportedly the most expensive to operate, with costs estimated at 25,000 Swiss francs per flight hour (over 30,000 euros). The Gripen E is the most cost-effective option, but it was rejected in a 2014 national referendum due to concerns over its combat capabilities.
Each model offers distinct advantages — from increased strategic autonomy to lower operational costs — but any change would require a thorough review of the country’s national defense strategy.
Impacts and Next Steps
The potential abandonment of the F-35 is not merely a technical or security issue. The decision could lead to diplomatic complications with the U.S. and impact jobs related to the program’s supply chain. On the other hand, choosing a European aircraft could reinforce Switzerland’s historical neutrality and strengthen its strategic autonomy.
A final decision is expected in the coming months and is likely to reshape the direction of Swiss air defense for the next decade.
Source: Watson. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
