According to a report from Swissinfo.ch, European countries, particularly Germany, are increasingly avoiding or halting arms purchases from Switzerland due to restrictions related to the country’s neutrality policy. This trend is causing strain in diplomatic relations and raising concerns about the future of Switzerland’s defense industry.
The Netherlands was the first country to start avoiding Swiss war materials. Last year, the Dutch parliament decided to stop purchasing any arms from Switzerland after the Swiss blocked the export of 96 Leopard-1 tanks stored in Italy, which were intended for Ukraine. Similar considerations are being made in Spain and Denmark, according to media reports.
In early September, Germany reportedly decided to exclude Swiss companies from certain military procurement contracts. This decision was communicated in a letter to the Federal Office for Defense Procurement, Armasuisse. The move has caused alarm among Swiss defense companies and has been met with criticism from politicians across all parties.
The root of the rift between Germany and Switzerland lies in Switzerland’s refusal last year to allow the export of 12,400 rounds of Gepard anti-air tank ammunition to Ukraine. This decision was based on Switzerland’s War Matériel Act, which prohibits the re-export of Swiss-made weapons to countries involved in active conflict.
Armasuisse chief Urs Loher stated that this is a clear indication that Switzerland is no longer seen as a “reliable” partner in Germany. In the German parliament, the term “Swiss Free” is reportedly being used alongside “China Free,” a phrase used to minimize security risks, according to the Swiss German newspaper NZZ.
Security experts warn that if Swiss companies are unable to export their products, it could ultimately harm Switzerland’s own defense capabilities and reduce its autonomy. However, critics argue that Swiss security autonomy is an illusion, as the country disproportionately benefits from the security provided indirectly by NATO and the EU.
The Swiss parliament has agreed to amend the War Matériel Act, proposing more flexible arms deals and re-export rules after five years. However, a referendum expected by late 2025 means that Swiss-made weapons won’t reach Ukraine before 2026, even if the amendment is approved.
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