Switzerland’s military has announced its intent to acquire a defense system designed to counter “mini-drones,” amidst rising concerns following several reported airspace intrusions across Europe, many of which are attributed to Russia. This development comes as European leaders aim to establish an anti-drone “wall” for enhanced security.
Although Switzerland is neither a member of the European Union nor the NATO defense alliance, it is taking proactive measures to safeguard itself from potential drone attacks, particularly in light of numerous sightings over military zones in the country. Officials stress the urgency of implementing strong defenses against these aerial threats.
In an official statement, the military emphasized the necessity of adopting effective countermeasures against enemy mini-drones. The next phase involves selecting an appropriate model to integrate into the Swiss defense framework in the near future.
Delphine Schwab-Allemand, a spokeswoman for the Swiss army, confirmed to AFP that the military currently lacks protective means against microdrones, mini-drones, and small drones. She highlighted a worrying trend, noting that the army has repeatedly encountered mini-drones over military grounds or near military exercises outside designated training areas this year.
“We have seen an increase in these types of incidents since last year,” she explained, while refraining from disclosing specific numbers, the nature of the incidents, or details on how they track the operators of these drones for operational security reasons.
Traditionally, Switzerland has maintained a stance of well-armed military neutrality, bolstered by mandatory conscription for men. The military’s current initiative aligns with its historical approach to national defense while adapting to contemporary threats.
In recent months, the Swiss military has conducted field tests of a defense system capable of detecting and neutralizing mini-drones that pose risks to military infrastructure. The success of these tests, coupled with the growing prevalence of such drone incursions, has accelerated the decision to prioritize the acquisition of this protective system.
The military’s proactive stance coincides with broader concerns within the EU, where member states suspect that Russia is behind various drone overflights of sensitive locations that have surged in recent days. In addition to seeking an anti-drone system, Switzerland’s Federal Office for Defence Procurement has signed framework contracts with three suppliers for the purchase of commercially available mini-drones, further signaling its commitment to enhancing national security amidst evolving defense challenges.
