Information for the media
NSB
Switzerland expands international cooperation in ammunition procurement
Switzerland is taking part in the Ammunition Support Partnership (ASP) of the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA). This promotes the joint procurement of ammunition as well as its monitoring and environmentally sound disposal. Thanks to economies of scale, the costs of procurement can be reduced and the delivery times shortened.
National Armaments Director visits Israel
National Armaments Director Urs Loher visited Israel on 13–14 July 2026 for official meetings with representatives of the Israeli Ministry of Defence's Directorate for International Defence Cooperation (SIBAT) and the defence industry
State Secretary for Security Policy hosts Moldovan counterpart for security policy dialogue
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will host Moldovan State Secretary Ghenadie Cojocaru on 9 July 2026 for the second security policy dialogue between the two defence ministries. The talks will focus on the deteriorated security situation in Europe, hybrid threats as well as on multilateral and bilateral cooperation.
F-35A procurement: Further offset projects are strengthening Swiss industry – target values are being clearly surpassed
armasuisse and Lockheed Martin are substantiating further projects for F-35A procurement with an addendum to the existing offset agreement. These projects are specifically strengthening security-relevant key technologies, industrial capabilities and Switzerland’s resilience. The specifications will be significantly exceeded if successfully implemented: Altogether, it is anticipated that offset business amounting to around 73% of the value of the contract will be achieved – instead of the required 60%. The regional target values will also be far exceeded: In French-speaking Switzerland, the expected share is around 40% above the specification; in Italian-speaking Switzerland, the target value is expected to be as much as around 140% overfulfilled.
Earthquakes in Venezuela: Swiss Rescue operations conclude, humanitarian aid continues
In Venezuela the death toll from the two powerful earthquakes continues to rise. The destruction is extensive. Having worked since last Friday to free people trapped in the rubble, Swiss Rescue personnel have concluded their mission and are returning home. Switzerland is continuing to provide emergency aid and is sending specialists from the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit to assist survivors.
Strengthening the resilience and sustainability of the Swiss Armed Forces: Switzerland hosted the 13th meeting of the research working group Energy and Environment of the European Defence Agency
More than 70 experts from 18 European nations came together on 23 and 24 June 2026 at the meeting of the “Energy and Environment Capability Technology Group” (EnE CapTech) of the European Defence Agency (EDA) in Zurich. Representatives from defence ministries, EU organisations, industry and research institutions from EU member states and partner states discussed challenges and solutions to promote European research and technological development in the energy sector and thus to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of the armed forces of the states involved.
Federal Council adopts 2026–29 strategic objectives for RUAG International Holding AG
At its meeting on 24 June, the Federal Council approved strategic objectives for RUAG International Holding AG (RUAG International) for the 2026–29 period. Following Parliament’s decision to retain control of Beyond Gravity, these new objectives will position RUAG International and its operating subsidiary Beyond Gravity as a globally active Swiss space company, aligning them more closely with broad security policy interests and strengthening Switzerland’s space resilience.
LAKE LUCERNE SUMMIT: Mission Successfully Completed
The Swiss Armed Forces have successfully completed their mission as a partner of the Canton of Nidwalden to ensure the safe conduct of the LAKE LUCERNE SUMMIT on the Bürgenstock in the canton of Nidwalden. Approximately 1,300 military personnel were on duty each day. A total of five violations occurred in the restricted airspace. Two aircraft were escorted out of the restricted airspace by the Air Force.
Federal Council supports Switzerland hosting the 2038 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games
The Federal Council is in favour of Switzerland hosting the 2038 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. At the start of this year, it set out the main criteria for supporting this major sporting event. During the consultation process, the proposed planning decision was widely supported. This provides for a federal contribution of CHF 200 million. At its meeting on 19 June, the Federal Council took note of the results of the consultation and approved the dispatch for submission to Parliament.
Visit by the Deputy National Armaments Director to the Eurosatory
A delegation from armasuisse led by the Deputy National Armaments Director Thomas Rothacher visited the international arms fair Eurosatory in Paris from 15 to 17 June 2026.
European Land Robot Trial (ELROB) 2026: Robotics for security-relevant operations
From 15 to 19 June 2026, armasuisse Science and Technology (S+T) will be host to the European Land Robot Trial (ELROB), in cooperation with the Fraunhofer FKIE from Germany and RUAG AG. Over four days, the Military Training Area in Thun will become the setting for deploying land robots in realistic military and civilian scenarios. ELROB is the most established event of this kind in Europe.
G7 summit in Évian: Switzerland commits to ensuring security
With just a few days to go before the G7 summit starts in Évian, representatives from the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), the Swiss Armed Forces and the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) joined cantonal authorities in Geneva to present the measures being taken to ensure the event's security and support the cantons involved: Geneva, Vaud and Valais. Organised by France, the summit will take place from 15 to 17 June 2026. On this occasion, President of the Swiss Confederation Guy Parmelin will welcome the heads of state and government of the participating countries to Geneva.
armasuisse signs contract for new artillery system
The Swiss Armed Forces are modernising their artillery. Today’s armoured howitzer M109 dates back to the 1960s and is to be replaced by a new system. For this purpose, armasuisse has signed the procurement contract with the German manufacturer KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG.
G7 in Évian: Federal Council approves Franco-Swiss military cooperation document
To ensure security at the G7 summit, which is being hosted by France in Évian from 15 to 17 June, the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and the French Ministry of the Armed Forces and Veterans’ Affairs have drawn up a Joint Procedural Document (JPD). This document sets out the framework for military cooperation between Switzerland and France during the summit. Its purpose is to ensure the smooth running of any joint activities, particularly on Lake Geneva and in the airspace, thereby contributing to security. The Federal Council approved it at its meeting on 5 June. The Federal Council approved it at its meeting on 5 June, adding to the measures taken in preparation for the summit.
State Secretary for Security Policy visits the Multinational Force and Observers in Egypt
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will travel to Egypt from 3 to 4 June. The purpose of the official trip is to visit the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO), an international organisation based in Sharm El-Sheikh. Switzerland has provided funding to the MFO since 1995, thereby contributing to stability in the Sinai and upholding of the Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty.
Useful life of F/A-18C/D of the Swiss Air Force extended
The work for extending the useful life of the F/A-18C/D combat aircraft of the Swiss Air Force is complete. The operational readiness of the Swiss F/A-18C/D fleet is therefore ensured into the early 2030s and thus up to the introduction of the new F-35A combat aircraft.
Long-range ground-based air defence: Information received from contacted providers
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse today received the last documents from the contacted manufacturers in four countries regarding an additional system for long-range ground-based air defence. The information received is now being analysed and will serve as a basis, so that the Federal Council will be able to decide on the next steps over the summer.
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister to attend the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister will attend the Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) in Singapore from 29 to 31 May. The international security conference will focus on geopolitical developments and issues relating to international stability.
First Swiss F-35A reaches important production milestone
Main assembly of the first F-35A aircraft destined for Switzerland has begun in the USA. The Swiss F-35 programme is thus reaching a further important milestone on the way to delivery of the first aircraft from mid-2027.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki pays state visit to Switzerland
Polish President Karol Nawrocki, accompanied by his wife Marta Nawrocka, began a two-day state visit to Switzerland on Wednesday, 27 May. He was received by the Federal Council with military honours in Parliament Square to mark the start of his visit. The delegations then discussed how to further strengthen the already excellent bilateral relations. They also addressed issues relating to economic development and security in Europe.
Research Program Security: The DDPS and the ETH domain are strengthening research in the area of security and defence
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse and the ETH domain are strengthening their strategic cooperation in security-relevant research. The aim of the programme “Research Program Security” launched in October 2025 is to develop innovative ideas and solutions for the current challenges in the area of security and defence. Eight projects from the first call will be launched from May 2026. armasuisse will provide two million Francs for this purpose.
Progress in strengthening cybersecurity
Switzerland is making progress in strengthening cybersecurity. The latest report on the implementation of the National Cyberstrategy (NCS) documents the status of work in 2025 and shows that projects are moving forward. The report also sets out the measures being taken in response to the growing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of cybersecurity. The Federal Council was informed of the report at its meeting on 20 May 2026.
Poland's President Karol Nawrocki to pay a state visit to Switzerland next week
President Karol Nawrocki of Poland is expected to arrive in Switzerland on Wednesday, 27 May, for a two-day state visit. This invitation from the Federal Council, headed by President Guy Parmelin, highlights the importance of bilateral relations between Switzerland and Poland. Since the turning point in 1989, a Polish head of state has visited Switzerland every decade.
Innosuisse and armasuisse launch a call for projects in the field of dual-use technologies
Through this initiative, Innosuisse and the Federal Office for Defence Procurement (armasuisse) aim to strengthen research, development and innovation in the fields of security and defence, whilst generating tangible benefits for the economy and civil society. The call for projects focuses on dual-use technologies, i.e. those that can be used in both civilian and security sectors. It contributes to the implementation of the armament policy strategy of the Federal Council and will be launched on 1 July 2026. The budget for this initiative amounts to CHF 20 million and will be shared between Innosuisse and armasuisse.
‘Stay safe online and offline’ – Raising awareness at the 2026 BEA spring fair
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will be hosting an interactive exhibition at the BEA spring fair in Bern between 24 April and 3 May to raise public awareness of cybersecurity. Working alongside Swiss Crime Prevention (SCP), the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), Swiss Post, the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (eBanking – but secure! EBAS) and Netpathie, the NCSC will demonstrate the reality of digital threats and how simple measures can provide effective protection.
State Secretary for Security Policy attending Civil Defence Forum in Stockholm
State Secretary Markus Mäder represents the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport at the Civil Defence Forum in Stockholm on 21 and 22 April. This conference is dedicated to comprehensive security and the resilience of society in the face of hybrid warfare.
‘SUPER, right?’ – launch of the 2026 national cybersecurity awareness campaign
Phishing and scam attempts are widespread, and many are identified early enough for people to take the necessary cybersecurity measures. But it is becoming increasingly difficult to tell fraudulent messages from genuine ones. Scammers are increasingly using AI to personalise their messages, making them appear more convincing than ever. This is precisely what the new cybersecurity awareness campaign highlights under the slogan ‘SUPER, right?’. From 13 April to 10 May, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Swiss Crime Prevention (SCP), the cantonal and city police forces, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), Swiss Post and the Swiss Insurance Association (SIA) are launching another edition of the national S-U-P-E-R.ch campaign to raise awareness of the importance of cybersecurity.
Cyberthreat level remains high – attacks becoming more targeted and complex
The semi-annual report published today by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) outlines the relevant incidents and developments relating to cyberthreats against Switzerland and internationally in the second half of 2025. Alongside voluntary reports of cyber incidents, the report presents reportable cyberattacks against critical infrastructure for the first time. Such attacks have been mandatory reporting requirements since 1 April 2025. Although the number of voluntary reports has remained stable at a high level, the nature of these incidents is evolving and becoming more targeted. Effective protection requires close cooperation between government, businesses and society at both national and international levels.
Federal Council takes note of report on RUAG International's achievement of targets in 2025
At its meeting on 13 March, the Federal Council took note of the report by the Board of Directors of RUAG International Holding AG (RUAG International) on the achievement of targets in the 2025 financial year. The strategic goals set by the Federal Council were partially achieved. The Federal Council was also informed about the findings of the advisory group on the strategic development of Beyond Gravity (formerly RUAG Space). RUAG International's Board of Directors is to be largely renewed.
NCSC Director Florian Schütz at the RSAC Conference in San Francisco
Florian Schütz, Director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), will be attending the RSAC Conference in San Francisco from 23 to 26 March. This leading global event in the field of IT and cybersecurity brings together representatives from industry, science, and public administration. During the conference, Mr Schütz will participate in various panels and hold bilateral talks with representatives from industry and international organisations.
Switzerland steps up cooperation with EU on foreign and security policy
Federal councillors Ignazio Cassis and Martin Pfister, Switzerland's foreign and defence ministers respectively, met with the EU's high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, Kaja Kallas, in Zurich on 5 March 2026. At the meeting, Mr Cassis and Ms Kallas signed a joint declaration on strengthening foreign and security policy cooperation. An agreement simplifying Switzerland's participation in EU peacekeeping missions was also concluded. These new agreements are not part of the Swiss–EU package (Bilaterals III).
Major General Patrick Gauchat concludes successful assignment as Head of UNTSO
Major General Patrick Gauchat, head of the UN peacekeeping mission UNTSO, concludes his mission at the end of February. During his term of office, he led the United Nations' first peacekeeping mission through a particularly challenging security phase marked by significant tensions and a volatile situation in the Middle East. With his leadership, experience and diplomatic skills, he made an important contribution to stabilisation and de-escalation in the region.
State Secretary for Security Policy in Washington, D.C., for exchange on security and defence policy
On 25 February 2026, talks will take place between the Swiss and US defence ministries in Washington, D.C. Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will lead the Swiss delegation. The exchange aims at discussing the security situation and bilateral cooperation. The focus will be on the security policy situation in Europe and current developments in transatlantic relations.
IC Forum 2026 in Geneva – challenges and the future of humanitarian aid
More than 1,500 participants from 120 countries are expected to attend online or in person the 5th edition of the International Cooperation Forum Switzerland (IC Forum), to be held in Geneva on 26 and 27 February 2026. The event will bring together key players in international cooperation to discuss current challenges and the future of humanitarian aid. Participants will include federal councillors Ignazio Cassis and Martin Pfister, as well as the UN under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, Tom Fletcher, and Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the ICRC, who will exchange views with a range of international experts.
Better protection for critical infrastructure in Switzerland
The Federal Council plans to strengthen protections for Switzerland's critical infrastructure against all types of failure. This includes better safeguards against cyberattacks and manipulation for the most important electronic data held by the federal government, the cantons and operators of critical infrastructure. At its meeting on 18 February, the Federal Council decided to press ahead with draft legislation to improve the resilience and data security of critical infrastructure, responding to two motions referred to it by Parliament.
Switzerland to step up its commitment to the peace support mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2027
At its meeting on 18 February, the Federal Council adopted a dispatch to Parliament that provides for a temporary increase in Switzerland's contribution: in 2027, an additional 12 armed military personnel will be deployed to the multinational European Union Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EUFOR ALTHEA). They will assist with transport tasks and staff work. Against the backdrop of political crises in the country, the EUFOR ALTHEA mission plays a key role in stabilisation. Switzerland's contribution will allow it to support the EU's stabilisation efforts in a region that is important to Switzerland. The deployment of armed personnel must now be approved by Parliament.
Federal Councillors Martin Pfister, Ignazio Cassis and Beat Jans to attend the Munich Security Conference
Federal Councillors Martin Pfister, Ignazio Cassis and Beat Jans will attend the Munich Security Conference (MSC 26) from 13 to 15 February. In a rapidly changing security environment, this conference offers an opportunity for high-level discussions on how to strengthen Europe's security. It also provides a platform for promoting values such as peace and the rule of law.
Early warning of threats: Federal Council wants to strengthen exchange of air situation data with partners
The Federal Council wants to further enhance protection against airborne threats. At its meeting on 11 February, it decided to enter into negotiations to extend or conclude new international agreements on the exchange of air situation data. This will enable Switzerland to receive timely warnings of potential threats – even before they reach its own airspace – and so gain valuable advance warning time for the population and the Armed Forces.
National Armaments Director on business trip in Singapore and South Korea
National Armaments Director Urs Loher was on a business trip in Singapore and South Korea from 2 to 6 February 2026. As part of this trip, meetings were held with various authorities, organisations and companies. In addition, the National Armaments Director visited the Singapore Airshow 2026.
State Secretary for Security Policy in London for security policy dialogue
Talks between the Swiss and UK defence ministries will take place in London on 6 February. Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will head the Swiss delegation. The purpose of this dialogue is to strengthen bilateral cooperation on security policy. The discussions will focus on current developments in Europe and transatlantic relations.
Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy attends Summit on Responsible Use of AI in the Military Domain in Spain
The third Summit on Responsible Use of AI in the Military Domain (REAIM) will take place in A Coruña, Spain, from 4 to 5 February 2026. Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy, Pälvi Pulli, is heading the Swiss delegation.
G7 summit in Evian: Armed Forces support service and restriction on the use of airspace
At its meeting on 28 January, the Federal Council approved the deployment of the Armed Forces in a supporting role to assist the civilian authorities with security measures during the G7 summit to be held in Évian-les-Bains, France, from 15 to 17 June. This deployment, which is subsidiary in nature, complements the security measures put in place by the civilian authorities. Parliament will vote on the deployment at its next session in March.
The NCSC and SIA put cybersecurity in the spotlight at Swissbau 2026
The 2026 edition of Swissbau, the construction and real estate industry trade fair in Basel from 20 to 23 January, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects (SIA) will be focusing on cyber risks in the construction and real estate industry. Various events will highlight the increasing threat posed by cyberattacks and provide companies with specific recommendations for action on cybersecurity along the supply chain.
Switzerland held a research workshop on deception technologies together with NATO partners
On 14 and 15 January 2026, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse held a workshop on technologies for military deception together with the NATO Science and Technology Organisation (STO). More than 90 national and international experts from science, industry and defence discussed the current technological status as well as future challenges.
Federal Council programme announced for WEF Annual Meeting 2026
The 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) takes place in Davos next week, with four members of the Federal Council in attendance. President Guy Parmelin will open proceedings on Tuesday, 20 January, alongside the two interim co-chairs of the Board of Trustees, André Hoffmann and Larry Fink, and WEF President and CEO Børge Brende.
National Armaments Director holds bilateral talks with Danish counterparts in Copenhagen
National Armaments Director Urs Loher will meet with the Danish Armaments Director Lieutenant-General Kim J. Jørgensen for bilateral talks from 15 to 16 January 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark. The exchange will focus on current security and arms policy topics as well as possible cooperations in the armaments area. In addition, the bilateral agreement on the mutual recognition of official quality controls between Switzerland and Denmark will be signed.
Cyber resilience in global dialogue: The NCSC at the WEF Annual Meeting 2026
This year, with Florian Schütz participating in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is using this international platform to further engage with political, economic, and expert stakeholders on critical cybersecurity matters. To this end, the NCSC is organising a specialist event at the WEF Annual Meeting focusing on geopolitical developments, leadership roles in key technologies, and digital sovereignty. As in previous years, the NCSC is also supporting the WEF organisation in protecting cyberspace.
Current figures on offset transactions as of end of 2025
The Offset Register currently comprises eighteen procurement projects with offset obligations in the amount of CHF 5.42 billion, which must be settled by foreign suppliers to Swiss companies and research facilities. Of this, offset transactions in the amount of around CHF 2.85 billion have been carried out as at the end of 2025.
National day of mourning in memory of the victims of Crans-Montana
This coming Friday, 9 January, will be dedicated nationwide to remembering the victims of the tragic fire in Crans-Montana, showing solidarity with the injured and expressing sympathy for all those affected. On this day of mourning, President Guy Parmelin, together with Switzerland’s official religious communities, invites people across the country to observe a minute's silence and a moment of reflection. Church bells will ring throughout the country. A memorial service will take place in Martigny in the canton of Valais.
Cooperation between Switzerland and NATO: The objectives defined for the period from 2025 to 2028
Switzerland and NATO have defined the objectives of their cooperation for the period from 2025 to 2028. The Individually Tailored Partnership Programme (ITPP) is drawn up within the framework of NATO's Partnership for Peace (PfP), in which Switzerland has been participating since 1996. The agreed activities are in line with the Federal Council's intention to intensify international cooperation in security policy.
Taskforce Drones tests the technological maturity of attack and defence drones
From 8 to 19 December 2025, Swiss attack and defence drones will be tested at the Hinterrhein (GR) shooting range. The goals are a market survey and a qualitative assessment of the drone systems used, in order to estimate the maturity of the technology. The technical trials will be carried out by the Taskforce Drones with the participation of the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse, the Swiss Armed Forces and other partners. They aim to accelerate the capability development of the military in the field of drones and bring together industry, science and the military.
Comprehensive approach to security: Federal Council launches consultation on Switzerland's security policy strategy
In light of the deteriorating security situation, the Federal Council is realigning Switzerland's security policy for the coming years. To this end, it has developed a security policy strategy that incorporates the resources of both the federal government and the cantons. The Federal Council intends to address the heightened threat level by strengthening Switzerland's resilience, improving protection and prevention measures, and enhancing the country's defence capabilities. At its meeting on 12 December, it launched the consultation procedure and instructed the relevant departments to start implementation.
Federal Council adopts Digital Switzerland Strategy 2026
On 12 December, the Federal Council adopted the updated Digital Switzerland Strategy for 2026 and selected the new focus themes. The focus themes for next year are: digital sovereignty, digital host state and the introduction of the e-ID. This reflects the current priorities.
Report on the influence of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity
The Federal Council has examined how artificial intelligence (AI) is influencing cybersecurity and whether the National Cyberstrategy (NCS) can keep pace with rapid developments in AI. In a report on the opportunities and risks of AI systems in cybersecurity, commissioned in response to postulate 23.3861 from Gerhard Andrey and approved on 12 December, the Federal Council concludes that while AI acts as a catalyst for existing trends in cybersecurity, it does not change the fundamentals. AI projects will now be identified more clearly in the NCS to ensure transparency and allow for more focused control.
Security policy talks between Switzerland and Austria
Talks are taking place on 11 December in Vienna between the Swiss and Austrian defence ministries. The purpose of this dialogue is to strengthen bilateral cooperation on security policy. The discussions will focus on current developments in Europe and transatlantic relations.
Federal Council appoints Daniel Frutig-Meier as chairman of the Board of Directors of RUAG International
At its meeting on 5 December, the Federal Council appointed Daniel Frutig-Meier as chairman of the Board of Directors of RUAG International, the parent company of Beyond Gravity. He will first join the Board of Directors as a regular member in January 2026 and will take up his position as chairman of the Board of Directors at the 2026 Annual General Meeting.
SIG Sauer P320: New pistol for the Swiss Armed Forces from domestic production
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse has completed the evaluation for a new service pistol and selected a type. The model SIG Sauer P320 has been selected as the new pistol. The manufacturer has assured that production will be set up in Switzerland. This complies with the Armament Policy Strategy of the Federal Council to retain and set up security-relevant industrial capabilities in Switzerland.
Switzerland and the USA launch “A-VIPER” research project focusing on the automated identification of software vulnerabilities
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) have launched the “A-VIPER” research project. It is based on the existing framework agreement between the Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and the US Department of Defense (DoD). The aim of the project is to further develop the automated identification, analysis and prioritisation of software vulnerabilities in security-critical systems.
Winners selected in the idea competition for the recovery of ammunition
A panel of experts has selected the three best proposals for the environmentally sound and safe recovery of ammunition from Swiss lakes. The proposals provide important approaches for further investigation; however, there are no plans to actually recover the ammunition, provided that the monitoring efforts continue to show that the ammunition is not having any negative effects on the environment.
Address by Federal Councillor Martin Pfister at Swiss Defence Industry Day
Opening address by Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at Swiss Defence Industry Day at the Swiss Mission to NATO in Brussels, Monday, 1 December 2025
NCSC Director Florian Schütz visits Japan for high-level cybersecurity talks
Florian Schütz, director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), is travelling to Japan to strengthen international cooperation in the field of cybersecurity. The trip underscores the strategic importance of bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the face of increasing geopolitical tensions and hybrid threats.
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister visits Florennes Air Base in Belgium
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport, will visit Florennes Air Base in Belgium on 1 December. He will be accompanied by 12 members of the National CounciI and the Council of States. The purpose of the visit is to learn about the operational experience of the Belgian Air Force with the F-35A fighter jet. Mr Pfister will also attend the Swiss Defence Industry Day in Brussels with the aim of promoting Switzerland as an attractive location for the defence industry and raising the international profile of its technological expertise. While in Brussels, Mr Pfister will also meet NATO's secretary general, Mark Rutte.
Swiss Defence Industry Day in Brussels: Strengthening domestic industry, deepening cooperation with Europe
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is working together with the SWISS ASD (Aeronautics, Security and Defence) industry association, the Swiss Missions to NATO and the EU as well as the bilateral embassy in Brussels to organise the second “Swiss Defence Industry Day” on 1 December 2025. The event will be held at EFTA House in Brussels. The aim of the event is to establish and maintain international contacts and to promote Switzerland as an attractive location for the armament industry. National Armaments Director will make the trip to Belgium to attend the event.
Second evacuation of injured children from Gaza completed
Switzerland has completed its second humanitarian operation to evacuate injured children from the Gaza Strip. In collaboration with Norway, 13 children and 51 family members, who had previously travelled from Gaza to Jordan, were transported to Switzerland on Friday. They will be hosted by eight Swiss cantons, where they will receive medical treatment at various university and cantonal hospitals. They will also undergo an asylum procedure in Switzerland. As part of this humanitarian operation, Switzerland has evacuated a total of 20 injured children and 78 accompanying family members from Gaza.
SFISM study aims to better understand young athletes' mental health
A new research project by the Swiss Federal Institute of Sport Magglingen (SFISM) will examine the mental health of young performance athletes in Switzerland over several years, starting in 2025. The focus will not only be on those who make it to the top, but also on those who leave the performance sport system prematurely.
Federal Council adopts report on Switzerland's digital sovereignty
At its meeting on 26 November 2025, the Federal Council approved the report in response to postulate 22.4411 Z'graggen ‘Switzerland's Digital Sovereignty’. The report defines digital sovereignty for Switzerland, explains how it must be structured to enable the state to fulfil its tasks in the digital space, and proposes measures to further strengthen digital sovereignty. The Federal Council is establishing an interdepartmental working group in order to anticipate security and foreign policy developments and their impact on digital resources. The group will also continuously update the overview contained in the report and coordinate measures.
National Armaments Director holds bilateral talks with Finnish counterparts in Helsinki
The National Armaments Director, Urs Loher, will meet with the Finnish Armaments Director, Olli Ruutu, for bilateral talks in Helsinki, Finland on 25 November 2025. The exchange will focus on current security and arms policy topics as well as possible cooperations in the armaments area.
State Secretary Mäder attends Halifax International Security Forum
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will represent the DDPS at the Halifax International Security Forum in Canada from 21 to 23 November.
Swiss Armed Forces continue to develop their skills in the area of drones
Fifteen recruits completed training as First-Person View drone pilots, in order to be subsequently deployed with the troops in a field experiment. In this context, they used their skills to support the development of operational procedures for attack drones. The training in Thun and the following field experiment in Bure further developed the skills of the Swiss Armed Forces in the area of drones und took place within the context of the Taskforce Drones with the participation of the Swiss Armed Forces, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse as well as with external partners.
Defence against minidrones: armasuisse procures drone defence systems from the Swiss supplier Securiton
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse has decided to issue the award for minidrone defence systems. After a four-week evaluation test (field experiment) for detecting and defending against minidrones to protect military infrastructures at the Meiringen aerodrome, armasuisse awarded the Swiss supplier Securiton the contract to deliver several defence systems. The systems are designed as partially mobile and can thus also be used in subsidiary operations of the Swiss Armed Forces for civil authorities.
Federal Council to take action against scam websites
Digital crime in Switzerland has more than doubled in recent years. In response to Postulate 22.3457, which was submitted by National Council member Stefan Müller-Altermatt, the Federal Council examined the coordination between the relevant authorities, the police and the domain registry operators with regard to tackling scam websites. This assessment was carried out as part of a report on deactivating scam websites and coordinating the national response to online scams. Approved by the Federal Council at its 19 November meeting, the report concludes that, although the existing legal instruments are fundamentally effective, they must be applied more consistently.
Almost five-fold increase in reports of online investment ad scams
The latest semi-annual report from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) shows that the centre continued to receive large numbers of reports in the first six months of 2025. The number of reports concerning fraud – over half of the total – also remains high. There has been a marked increase in reports of online investment advertising scams. Cybercriminals often misuse celebrities as decoys to gain the trust of potential victims. The semi-annual report also focuses on various targeted phishing campaigns aimed at bank customers, the ongoing ransomware threat and hacktivism at major events such as the WEF and the Eurovision Song Contest.
Cyberthreat alerts now also on Alertswiss
Alertswiss will now also provide warnings to the public and businesses about serious cyberthreats. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Federal Office for Civil Protection (FOCP) have stepped up their collaboration. Cyberalerts are now integrated into both the Alertswiss app and website. This provides an additional channel through which to inform and warn the public as quickly as possible in the event of large-scale or unprecedented cyberattacks, and to provide practical guidance.
Reconnaissance drone system 15 (ADS 15): Addendum to the contract signed
armasuisse and the manufacturer Elbit Systems Ltd have signed an addendum to the contract for the reconnaissance drone system 15 (ADS 15). Amongst other things, this also includes the services for the three functionalities not to be implemented.
Multispectral camouflage systems: armasuisse makes decision to award contracts to Swiss and European manufacturers
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse has decided to whom to award the contracts for multispectral camouflage systems (MSTS). This decision factored in the performance capability of the systems, their deployment integration as well as logistical and economic criteria. The systems will be procured from all of the three European suppliers on the shortlist – SSZ Camouflage AG from Switzerland, Saro GmbH from Germany and Saab Barracuda AB from Sweden.
Staying safe through a crisis: Emergency planning is the key to cyber resilience
Cyberattacks that paralyse public services or result in the disclosure of sensitive data can undermine the public's trust in government institutions. Past incidents and the 2025 Myni Gmeind survey on cybersecurity demonstrate that many communes could enhance their preparedness for cyberincidents. To help communes and organisations in Switzerland strengthen their cyber resilience, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has launched a project together with its partner network. As part of this project, the NCSC has developed an emergency planning model, a set of practical tools, and an educational video, all of which are available on its website. The NCSC is also offering Brown Bag Lunches to show communes and organisations how best to prepare for cyberincidents.
National Armaments Director Urs Loher meets Elbit regarding ADS 15 procurement project
National Armaments Director Urs Loher held work discussions on the ongoing procurement project ADS 15 with representatives from the company Elbit Systems Ltd.
Procurement of electronic warfare equipment: Federal Council approves accession to the SAWFISH Memorandum of Understanding
At its meeting on 5 November, the Federal Council approved Switzerland's accession to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Netherlands and Germany on the procurement of and ongoing support for electronic warfare equipment, known as the Sawfish MoU. This allows Switzerland to participate in joint procurements and benefit from an exchange of information with the other two countries and from the experience they have gained in relation to electronic warfare.
Research directors of the Defence Procurement Groups meet for DACH talks in Zurich
On 29 and 30 October, the research directors of the Defence Procurement Groups from Germany, Austria and Switzerland met at armasuisse in Zurich. The focus was on research projects, innovation, robotics, drones and their defence. The host was armasuisse Science and Technology under the direction of Thomas Rothacher.
Digital Switzerland Advisory Board: Cybersecurity in Switzerland today
At the Digital Switzerland Advisory Board meeting on 30 October the focus was on information security and cybersecurity. Under the chairmanship of Federal Councillor Martin Pfister and with the participation of Federal Chancellor Viktor Rossi, representatives from the cantons, business, academia and civil society met to exchange views on the current state of national cybersecurity measures. The discussions centred on information security and cybersecurity in the context of the National Cyberstrategy, and highlighted specific areas for action and examples of what works in practice.
National Armaments Director to take part in the Conference of National Armament Directors of NATO
National Armaments Director Urs Loher will take part in the annual NATO Conference of National Armament Directors (CNAD) on 30 October 2025, which will be held with NATO partner states in Brussels. The National Armaments Director will also take the opportunity to meet with his counterparts for bilateral talks at the event. In addition, the National Armaments Director will attend meetings with the Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS) on the part of the European Union.
Cyber Start-up Challenge 2025: The start-up Pometry Ltd from London wins over the DDPS
The start-up company Pometry Ltd, domiciled in London, has been selected by the Cyber-Defence Campus of armasuisse as the winner of this year’s cyber start-up challenge. With its real-time analysis of dynamic data relationships in sectors such as finance, insurances and social networks, Pometry Ltd won over the specialist jury and defeated strong international competition. The start-up will receive an order worth up to 100,000 CHF to implement a proof of concept for its technology in the environment of the Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport DDPS.
State visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa: Switzerland and South Africa strengthen relations
The state visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa is serving as an opportunity for Switzerland and South Africa to strengthen relations. On Wednesday, 29 October, five documents on future cooperation were signed. Prior to that, the South African president was received by the full Federal Council. Official talks focused on bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries at international level.
Switzerland updates administrative arrangement with the European Defence Agency
At its meeting on 29 October 2025, the Federal Council approved an updated agreement between Switzerland and the European Defence Agency (EDA). The agreement has yet to be adopted by the Council of the EU. In response to the changes in the security policy environment in Europe, the Federal Council is seeking to align the agreement concluded with the EDA in 2012 more strategically with Switzerland's defence capabilities.
Continued support for weapons and ammunition management training in Bosnia and Herzegovina
At its meeting on 29 October, the Federal Council decided to continue assisting the armed forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina on a bilateral basis in developing their abilities in relation to the safe storage and management of weapons and ammunition. By sending up to 10 Swiss weapons and ammunition experts, the Federal Council is ensuring that the support project, which has been running for several years, can be brought to a successful conclusion.
Concept for coordinated cyberincident response
Due to the close interconnection of digital systems, cyberincidents can have an immediate impact on many different organisations. Successfully managing these incidents requires a coordinated approach involving all affected stakeholders, including those from the business and economic community, the cantons, and the federal government. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has developed a plan for coordinated cyberincident response, setting out how the federal government organises itself to ensure effective, coordinated management of incidents.
Injured children to be evacuated from Gaza for medical treatment
As part of a humanitarian operation, Switzerland is evacuating an initial group of seven injured children from the Gaza Strip to Switzerland. The children and persons accompanying them will be hosted by seven Swiss cantons, where they will receive medical treatment at university and cantonal hospitals. They will also undergo an asylum procedure in Switzerland. The humanitarian operation has been jointly organised by several federal agencies and cantons, and is being carried out in cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and Swiss Air-Rescue Rega.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to pay state visit to Switzerland
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will pay a two-day state visit to Switzerland next week at the invitation of the Federal Council, led by President Karin Keller-Sutter. The visit aims to underscore and further deepen the close and multifaceted relationship between the two countries. South Africa is strategically important for Switzerland and ranks among its most important partners on the African continent.
State Secretary for Security Policy to meet with Singapore’s Permanent Secretary (Defence)
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will receive Singapore’s Permanent Secretary (Defence) Chan Heng Kee in Bern on 21 October 2025. They will discuss current security policy developments and challenges and visit the National Emergency Operations Centre.
Partially mobile short-range radars: armasuisse purchases Italian radar system for airspace surveillance for the Swiss Air Force
In order to better maintain air sovereignty in the lower airspace, the Swiss Air Force needs partially mobile short-range radars. For this purpose, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse has selected the supplier for this new system as part of an invitation procedure. The Italian manufacturing company Leonardo with its TMMR (Tactical Multi Mission Radar) radar system received the contract for this important new capability of the Swiss Air Force.
NCSC Director Florian Schütz visiting WEF Annual Meeting on Cybersecurity and Singapore International Cyberweek
Florian Schütz, Director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), is representing Switzerland at two major international cybersecurity forums this month, one in Dubai and one in Singapore. By contributing to discussions on global cyber resilience, artificial intelligence and international cooperation, he is advocating for a secure and resilient digital future, and reinforcing Switzerland's role as an active partner in global cyberpolicy.
Cybercrime: the AKIRA group steps up its activities
Joint press release from the OAG, fedpol, and the NCSC - In recent months, the hacker group AKIRA has stepped up its activities in Switzerland. Around two hundred companies have been victims of ransomware attacks, with damages currently amounting to several millions of Swiss francs, and to several hundreds of millions of dollars worldwide. Since April 2024, the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (OAG) has been conducting criminal proceedings. The investigation is being coordinated by the Federal Office of Police (fedpol), in close cooperation with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the authorities in several other countries that are affected. The Swiss authorities stress the importance of contacting them before taking any action and of the need to file a criminal complaint.
Pilot project for testing security vulnerabilities in open source software
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the National Test Institute for Cybersecurity (NTC) have conducted a pilot project to test two open source software solutions TYPO3 and QGIS for security vulnerabilities. Vulnerabilities were found in both products, which have since been fixed by the developer community. The pilot project has shown that targeted testing can strengthen the security of open source software (OSS) and increase Switzerland's cyber resilience. The NCSC is currently examining how security testing of OSS can be established on a permanent and structured basis in the future.
National Armaments Director holds work discussions with the French Directorate General of Armament (DGA) in Paris
National Armaments Director Urs Loher travelled to Paris from 9-10 October 2025 to hold bilateral discussions with the French Directorate General of Armament (DGA). The discussions focused on current defence policy developments as well as bilateral cooperation.
Long-range ground-based air defence: Working visit by the National Armaments Director to the USA
National Armaments Director Urs Loher held technical discussions with representatives from the US Department of Defense in the Pentagon in Virginia, USA on 2 October 2025. The talks focused on the next steps in the procurement of long-range ground-based air defence (GBAD LR
Reconnaissance drone system 15 (ADS 15): armasuisse has delivered the third drone to the Swiss Air Force
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse delivered the third of altogether six reconnaissance drone systems 15 (ADS 15) for operation to the Swiss Air Force on 19 September 2025.
Address by Federal Councillor Martin Pfister at the "Building Bridges Summit"
Address by Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the Building Bridges Summit, Geneva, Tuesday, 30 September 2025.
Six-month reporting obligation for cyberattacks on critical infrastructures
Since 1 April 2025, there has been a legal obligation in Switzerland to report cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) regards the results after the first six months as positive. So far, a total of 164 reports have been received from critical infrastructures. From 1 October 2025, the planned sanctions for failing to report attacks will come into force.
Switzerland signs contract with the USA on environmentally sound ammunition disposal for the US Army
On 15 September 2025, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse signed an initial order for ammunition disposal with the US Army in cooperation with RUAG MRO. The pilot project aims to ensure the preservation of expertise in Switzerland on a long-term basis.
2025 National Cybersecurity Conference: ‘Cyber resilience: Regulation or personal responsibility?’
Current debate in the field of cybersecurity focuses on the optimal interplay between state regulation and individual responsibility. The theme of the National Cybersecurity Conference held today in Bern was ‘Cyber resilience: Regulation or personal responsibility?’ Around 250 representatives from the fields of politics, public administration, business and academia discussed the key challenges in ensuring digital security in Switzerland. Federal Councillor Martin Pfister opened the event and argued that personal responsibility and regulation should go hand in hand.
Cyber Security Month 2025: Together against phishing – how to protect your data
Phishing is and remains one of the biggest threats on the Internet. In October, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is organising an awareness campaign as part of the annual Cyber Security Month. This year's campaign focuses on the dangers of phishing and asks the question ‘How do I protect my data online?’. Much of the campaign content and a quiz were created in collaboration with the association Netpathie, working with young people. In a webinar, social engineer and campaign ambassador Ivano Somaini will demonstrate how cybercriminals use public or hacked data for attacks.
Address by Federal Councillor Martin Pfister at the anniversary celebration of the Geneva Centres
Address by Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport DDPS, at the anniversary celebration of the Geneva Centres, Geneva, Thursday, 18 September 2025.
Infantry Fighting Vehicle 2000: Federal Council approves Ukraine’s admission to operator group
At its meeting on 12 September, the Federal Council approved Ukraine’s admission as a full member of the CV90 Club, the operator group for the Combat Vehicle 90. Ukrainian membership is compatible with Swiss neutrality, as it entails a purely technical data exchange, with Switzerland retaining full discretion over what information it chooses to share.
Training cooperation with Colorado National Guard: DDPS to participate in State Partnership Program with US
At its meeting on 12 September, the Federal Council approved a memorandum of understanding that launches a partnership between the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport and the Colorado National Guard under the State Partnership Program. The purpose of this partnership is to facilitate training cooperation, allowing the Swiss Armed Forces to expand their capabilities through international collaboration and strengthen their defence readiness. It also fosters closer cooperation with the US in areas beyond the military, thereby deepening bilateral relations in general.
Working visit by the National Armaments Director at the trade fair “Defence & Security Equipment International” in London
National Armaments Director Urs Loher took part in the armaments trade fair “Defence & Security Equipment International” (DSEI) in London from 9 to 10 September 2025. In addition to meetings with representatives from industry, bilateral talks with the participating armaments directors from Norway, Italy, Denmark and the Netherlands also took place.
armasuisse supports the development of Payerne as a location for research and innovation
As part of the agreement concluded between the DDPS and the Broye region in September 2024, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is investing in the development of a future-oriented research location in Payerne. The new site will drive research and development projects in the area of dual technologies (for civilian and military use) and create new jobs in the coming years. Work is scheduled to commence on this development over the course of this year, to begin with in the co-working spaces on the swiss aeropole premises in the municipality of Payerne. The occupancy of our own premises is planned to take place in summer 2026.
Florian Schütz, Director of the NCSC, to visit cybertech conferences in Tokyo and Osaka
The Director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Florian Schütz, will be attending this year's cybertech conferences in Osaka and Tokyo. During his visit to Japan from 1 to 4 September, he will take part in various events, panels and bilateral talks with representatives from industry and government.
In cooperation with SWISS ASD/Swissmem, armasuisse launches the first “Swiss Defence Industry Day” in Washington D.C.
In cooperation with the industry sector SWISS ASD (Aeronautics, Security and Defence), an amalgamation of internationally operating companies in security and defence technology as well as aviation, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is launching the “Swiss Defence Industry Day” for the first time on 28 August 2025. The industrial event will take place at the Swiss Embassy in Washington D.C. and on the periphery of the “Emerging Technologies for Defense Conference”. The goal of the “Swiss Defence Industry Day” is to establish international contacts as well as to promote Switzerland as an attractive location for the armament industry.
Deputy National Armaments Director receives foreign defence attachés
The Deputy National Armaments Director Thomas Rothacher will receive the defence attachés accredited in Switzerland from ten countries on 21 August 2025. The traditional professional exchange will take place in Bern and Spiez.
Federal Council to strengthen cyber resilience of digital products
Although preventing security vulnerabilities is crucial for cybersecurity, Switzerland currently has few regulations regarding the cyber resilience of digital products. The Federal Council aims to change this. At its meeting on 20 August, it tasked the DDPS, in collaboration with DETEC and the EAER, with drafting a bill to be submitted for consultation. This new legislation will raise security requirements for products containing digital components, responding to the demands of Motion 24.3810, ‘Conducting urgently needed cybersecurity checks’, which was submitted by the Security Policy Committee of the Council of States.
Federal Council determines next steps regarding procurement of fighter aircraft
Talks held over the summer have made it clear that the USA is not prepared to deviate from its position. Consequently, Switzerland is unable to assert a fixed price for the F-35A fighter aircraft. At its meeting on 13 August, the Federal Council determined the next steps and instructed the DDPS to examine various options in depth by the end of November.
DDPS sets up advisory group for the strategic development of Beyond Gravity
Following Parliament's decision not to pursue the planned privatisation of Beyond Gravity, the DDPS intends to set out Beyond Gravity's new strategic direction in the near future. To this end, the DDPS has set up an advisory group comprising Prof. Thomas Zurbuchen from ETH Zurich, National Armaments Director Urs Loher, Jürg Rötheli, president of the Board of Directors of RUAG MRO, and representatives from the Federal Finance Administration (FFA) and the Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER). The advisory group will be chaired by Marc Siegenthaler, Deputy Secretary General of the DDPS. The Federal Council was informed of this at its meeting on 13 August.
Infantry Fighting Vehicle 2000: Federal Council approves agreement to expand operator group
Through its membership in the CV90 Club (Combat Vehicle 90 operator group), Switzerland benefits from efficient and cost-effective maintenance of its Infantry Fighting Vehicle 2000 while gaining valuable insights into ongoing developments. The Czech Republic and Slovakia are now set to join the group, which facilitates information exchange among user nations. The Federal Council approved the agreement to expand the operator group at its meeting on 13 August.
Working visit by the National Armaments Director to the USA
National Armaments Director Urs Loher travelled to the United States from 5 to 7 August for a working visit. Together with a delegation from the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse, he met with representatives from Lockheed Martin for technical discussions.
GBAD MR: Contract on cooperative procurement for medium-range ground-based air defence signed
Switzerland is procuring five IRIS-T SLM systems for ground-based air defence. These will protect the population from medium-range threats from the air. The procurement is part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI). The contract for Switzerland has now been signed between the Federal Office of Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the German Armed Forces and the manufacturer Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG, after the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse gave authorisation to do so.
National Armaments Director meets with the Armaments Directors from Germany and Austria for the annual trilateral discussions in Vienna
National Armaments Director Urs Loher travelled to Vienna from 17 to 18 July 2025 to take part in the D-A-CH meetings with the Armaments Directors from Germany and Austria. The main topics of the exchange were ongoing armament procurements and trilateral cooperation.
Patriot GBAD systems: US informs Switzerland on delayed delivery
The United States Department of Defense has informed the DDPS that it will reprioritize the delivery of Patriot systems to support Ukraine, focusing on ground-based air defense. This also affects Switzerland, which will receive its production batches later than planned. The Federal Council has been notified.
State Secretary for Security Policy to travel to Chisinau for security policy dialogue with Moldova
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will hold talks on current security policy developments and bilateral cooperation with his counterparts in Chisinau (Moldova) from 17 to 18 July.
Shielding critical infrastructure against cyberattacks: three suspected criminals identified
The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) initiated criminal proceedings against persons unknown in response to a spate of DDoS attacks targeting a number of federal websites in June 2023, for which the pro-Russian collective "NoName057(16)" claimed responsibility. In the spring of 2025, several members of this collective could be identified following an extensive international investigation to which the OAG and fedpol contributed significantly. The OAG has broadened the criminal proceedings to include three ringleaders of this collective and issued warrants for their arrests. The operators of the more than 200 Swiss websites targeted where feasible received prior warning and support in warding off the attacks from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The whole process can be considered a success story, highlighting the value of international cooperation in the fight against cybercrime.
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister to make working visit to Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina
The head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, will visit Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina on 7 and 8 July. He will be accompanied by members of the parliamentary Security Policy Committee and by Philippe Müller, a member of the cantonal government and head of the Department of Cantonal Security in the Canton of Bern. The aim of the working visit is to gain an overview of the security situation and Switzerland's role in peacekeeping operations. In addition to visiting Swiss Armed Forces personnel, Federal Councillor Pfister will hold bilateral talks with defence ministers Ejup Maqedonci (Kosovo) and Zukan Helez (Bosnia and Herzegovina) as well as with Christian Schmidt, High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mr Pfister will be accompanied by Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy.
Report on the ‘Switzerland's most important digital data’ workshops
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is currently working on a framework for implementing Motion 23.3002 ‘Greater security for Switzerland's most important digital data’. The motion calls for federal government, the cantons, the communes and operators of critical infrastructures to enhance the security of their most important digital data. To implement the motion, the NCSC held practical workshops with critical infrastructure operators. The findings of these workshops have now been published in a report, which will serve as a basis for further action.
GBAD MR: National Armaments Director signs programme agreement as part of European Sky Shield Initiative with the German Federal Ministry of Defence
The National Armaments Director, Urs Loher, and the German National Armaments Director, Vice Admiral Carsten Stawitzki, have signed the programme agreement as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) for the cooperative procurement of IRIS-T SLM systems of medium-range ground-based air defence (GBAD MR) from the German manufacturer Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG. The programme agreement which the Federal Council approved on 20 June 2025 is a requirement for a procurement contract on the GBAD MR systems. Switzerland can benefit from economies of scale and an improved interoperability of the systems through this joint procurement.
“Switzerland's Security 2025”: Global confrontation has direct effects on Switzerland
The security situation around Switzerland is deteriorating year by year. A global confrontation is emerging, with the USA on one side and China and Russia on the other. This has direct implications for Switzerland: the threat of espionage is high and proliferation activities are increasing. The terrorist threat remains elevated. Particularly concerning is the growing online radicalization of youth. In its new situation report “Switzerland's Security 2025,” the Federal Intelligence Service (FIS) assesses the threat landscape facing the country.
Cyberattack on Radix: Federal Administration data also affected
The foundation Radix has been targeted by a ransomware attack, during which data was stolen and encrypted. Radix’s customers include various federal offices. The data has been published on the dark web and will now be analysed by the relevant offices.
Air2030: Current challenges and future steps
Over recent months, a number of challenges have arisen in the Air2030 programme to renew funding for air space protection. The Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) today updated the Federal Council on the current status of the procurement process for the new fighter aircraft F-35A. The Federal Council is supporting the DDPS in the next stages of the procurement procedure and in the diplomatic talks on the fixed price. It still considers this price to be valid. The Federal Council remains committed to procuring the F-35A.
Idea competition for recovering ammunition from Swiss lakes: Evaluation is ongoing
In August 2024, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse launched an idea competition for the environmentally-friendly and safe recovery of ammunition from Swiss lakes. The announcement of the results, scheduled for the end of May 2025, has been postponed. Due to the complexity of the ideas, the evaluation is taking more time than planned.
National Armaments Director in talks with Elbit about ongoing procurement projects
National Armaments Director Urs Loher met representatives from Elbit Systems Ltd for working discussions on the reconnaissance drone system 15 (ADS 15) and the Armed Forces Telecommunication (TK A) in Cyprus.
Earthquake simulation exercise: 12 countries train in Kriens to save lives
The earthquakes in Myanmar in April 2025 and in Turkey in February 2023 claimed countless lives. Internationally deployable rescue teams provide vital assistance in such emergencies, and regular training is key to ensuring the efficiency of their operations. To that end Switzerland is conducting the international earthquake simulation exercise ‘SIMEX25’ in Kriens (canton of Lucerne) from 23 to 27 June. Rescue teams from 12 countries are taking part.
Security and defence partnership: Federal Council to seek exploratory talks with the EU
At its meeting on 25 June 2025, the Federal Council decided to enter into exploratory talks with the EU with a view to concluding a security and defence partnership. These partnerships provide the EU with a framework for enhancing cooperation with third countries in this field. A security and defence partnership takes the form of non-legally-binding declaration of intent and can be designed individually. A partnership of this kind is a prerequisite for any joint procurements in the defence sector. It is compatible with neutrality and helps to strengthen Switzerland's defence capabilities.
Federal Council approves armaments policy strategy
The deteriorating security situation calls for a rethink of Switzerland's armaments policy. At its meeting on 20 June 2025, the Federal Council therefore approved its first armaments policy strategy, which aims to maintain the remaining defence-critical industrial base in Switzerland and strengthen the broader technology and industrial base relevant to national security. In addition, research, development and innovation for the further development of the Swiss Armed Forces are to be expanded and Switzerland's international armaments cooperation intensified.
Federal Council sets parameters for the further development of Beyond Gravity
Parliament has decided not to pursue the originally planned privatisation of the space company Beyond Gravity. At its meeting on 20 June 2025, the Federal Council drew up an action plan to enable the company to develop further under these new conditions. The Federal Council will now review the strategic objectives without delay, and create a statutory basis for holding a financial interest in the company accordingly. Ownership control will pass from the Federal Department of Finance (FDF) to the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS).
armasuisse presents modern technologies for battlefield reconnaissance and countermeasures in Thun
The “Scout 25” technical symposium was held at the Military Training Area in Thun on 18 June 2025. Here, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse came together with the Swiss Armed Forces to present modern technologies for battlefield reconnaissance and countermeasures. The event also gave those in attendance the chance to experience the technological possibilities being developed by industry and academia within the framework of the Vision 2030+ programme of the Swiss Armed Forces in a wide range of presentations.
Florian Schütz to attend WEF Roundtable in Paris
The Director of the National Cyber Security Centre, Florian Schütz, will attend the international World Economic Forum Roundtable in Paris on 17 and 18 June. Under the slogan ‘Rethinking Cyber Resilience in an Era of Complexity’, international experts from politics, business and administration will discuss key issues, current initiatives and joint approaches to improving global cyber resilience in an increasingly complex digital world.
Multispectral camouflage system project: armasuisse tests new camouflage and subterfuge systems for the Armed Forces
From July to September 2025, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse will test the camouflage and subterfuge systems of potential suppliers as part of the multispectral camouflage system project (MSTS) at the Thun and Bure Military Training Areas. Due to the advances made in the development of reconnaissance technologies, it is necessary to procure improved means of camouflage and subterfuge that meet the latest requirements in order to protect deployed members of the Swiss Armed Forces from injury or death and the systems and resources in use from damage. The contract is expected to be awarded at the end of 2025.
Swiss–EU package: Federal Council approves agreements and opens consultation process
At its meeting on 13 June 2025, the Federal Council approved the agreements in the new package to stabilise and develop Switzerland's bilateral approach with the EU and opened the domestic consultation process. After Switzerland brought the negotiations with the EU to a successful close in December 2024, the Federal Council finalised the implementing legislation and accompanying measures. Previously unresolved issues concerning wage protection, immigration, electricity and the type of referendum to be held have since been settled and presented to the public over the last five months. The consultation process will last until 31 October 2025. With this package, the Federal Council is aiming for customised sectoral participation in the EU single market as well as cooperation in selected areas. Given the current global unrest, maintaining good relations with neighbouring countries is key.
Simple cybersecurity for SMEs
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face the challenge of protecting their IT systems against cyberattacks. Although awareness of cyber risks has increased, implementing protective measures often proves difficult. To support SMEs in taking their first steps towards cybersecurity, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), ITSec4KMU and the Swiss Insurance Association (SIA) recently organised an information event where experts provided SMEs with a simple introduction to this important topic.
Enhanced cybersecurity cooperation in the financial sector: NCSC and Swiss FS-CSC strengthen partnership
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Swiss Financial Sector Cyber Security Centre (Swiss FS-CSC) are strengthening their partnership to bolster cybersecurity across Switzerland's financial sector. With the cooperation agreement, they are joining forces and implementing targeted measures against growing cyberthreats.
Tests show sustainable aviation fuel produces less fossil CO2 and less particulate matter
Two years ago, the Swiss Air Force and the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) carried out tests on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at the Payerne military airbase. These tests confirmed that SAF reduces emissions of soot particles and fossil CO2.
State Secretary for Security Policy and Chief of the Armed Forces to take part in the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore
From 30 May to 1 June, representatives from the Asia-Pacific region, North America, Europe and the Middle East will exchange views on current security policy challenges at the International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) in Singapore. Switzerland will be represented by Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, and Lieutenant General Thomas Süssli, Chief of the Armed Forces.
Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani Sadriu on a state visit to Switzerland
On 21 May, the entire Federal Council welcomed Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani Sadriu and her husband Prindon Sadriu with military honours in front of the Federal Palace for a state visit. The delegations then held talks on opportunities and prospects for the close and wide-ranging bilateral relationship. They also exchanged views on goals for European stability and prosperity, with particular focus on the situation in the Western Balkans.
Increasing cyber defence: Switzerland takes part in the PESCO project “Cyber Ranges Federation”
Switzerland will take part in the European PESCO project “Cyber Ranges Federation”. The EU Council approved participation today. The goal of the project is to network national cyber training infrastructures with each other to enable realistic, ambitious and efficient training in the area of cyber defence.
First implementation report on the National Cyberstrategy
At its meeting on 14 May the Federal Council took note of the first implementation report on the National Cyberstrategy (NCS). The report outlines the status of national efforts to strengthen cybersecurity. It was prepared by the NCS Steering Committee in collaboration with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The report clearly shows that progress has been made: key coordination structures have been established, ongoing projects implemented and new ones launched, and Switzerland’s international profile in the field of cybersecurity has been raised.
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister to attend UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin
On 13 May, Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), will attend the United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping Ministerial conference in Berlin. Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will also attend. The conference will focus on issues in security policy and international cooperation on future peacekeeping activities. On the fringes of the conference, Mr Pfister will meet with German defence minister Boris Pistorius and Italian defence minister Guido Crosetto.
President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani Sadriu, to pay state visit to Switzerland
In recognition of the close and multifaceted relations between Switzerland and Kosovo, the Federal Council has invited Kosovo’s President Vjosa Osmani Sadriu and her husband Prindon Sadriu to pay a state visit to Switzerland. President Karin Keller-Sutter will lead the Federal Council in corpore in welcoming President Osmani with military honours on Bundesplatz on Wednesday, 21 May. This will be followed by official speeches and political discussions. The programme the following day will focus on business and innovation.
National Armaments Director takes part in the defence exhibition “Defence Exhibition Athens DEFEA 2025” in Athens
National Armaments Director Urs Loher is taking part in the DEFEA 2025 defence exhibition in Athens. Within this framework, bilateral discussions with the National Armament Directors of Greece and Israel as well as exchanges with representatives from industry will take place.
Cross-border cyberthreats require international solutions
The latest semi-annual report from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) outlines how cybercriminals operate internationally and the methods they use for their attacks. In light of these global cyberthreats and our ever-growing dependence on global software, international cooperation is becoming increasingly important. To strengthen cybersecurity in Switzerland, a reporting obligation for cyberattacks on critical infrastructure came into force on 1 April. This was developed in close alignment with international standards and EU directives.
DDPS and other federal departments to provide security support for Eurovision Song Contest in Basel
From 11 to 17 May, Basel will host the Eurovision Song Contest, a major event that will see extensive support from various agencies of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport, the Federal Office of Police, and the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security. These agencies will work alongside the organisers and cantonal authorities to ensure the security of the event, with the Confederation making a crucial contribution to public safety.
NCSC Director Florian Schütz to attend RSA Conference in San Francisco
The director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Florian Schütz, will be attending the RSA Conference in San Francisco from 28 April to 1 May. The conference is one of the leading events in the field of cybersecurity bringing together representatives from industry, society and government to discuss a host of cyber-related topics. Florian Schütz will be accompanied by Ambassador Benedikt Wechsler and will take part in various panels and bilateral discussions with representatives from industry and international organisations.
Locked Shields 25: Swiss delegation to take part in international cyber defence exercise
From 28 April to 9 May, the Swiss Armed Forces will take part in the world’s largest cyber defence exercise, Locked Shields 25. Around 40 participants from the Swiss Armed Forces, the Federal Administration, the cantons and operators of critical infrastructure will be taking part. As part of the exercise, the teams will defend fictitious IT infrastructures against cyberattacks by a fictitious adversary.
Current figures on offset transactions as of end of March 2025
The Offset Register currently comprises seventeen offset obligations in the amount of CHF 5.27 billion, which must be awarded by foreign suppliers to Swiss companies. Of this, offset transactions in the amount of around CHF 2.69 billion have been carried out as at the end of March 2025.
‘No excuses – Do it!’- Launch of the 2025 national cybersecurity awareness campaign
People often neglect to set secure passwords and install security updates. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the Swiss Crime Prevention Unit (SCP), cantonal and municipal police forces, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), Swiss Post and the Swiss Insurance Association (SIA) are launching the next stage of the ‘S-U-P-E-R.ch’ campaign to raise public awareness about cybersecurity under the slogan ‘No excuses – Do it now!’.
National Armaments Director receives the Deputy National Armaments Director of Poland in Switzerland
On 16 April, National Armaments Director Urs Loher met with the Deputy National Armaments Director of Poland, Colonel Krzysztof Komorowski, for bilateral discussions in Switzerland. The focus was on an exchange of ideas about current armaments policy topics.
Medium-range ground-based air defence: armasuisse tested new radar to strengthen defence capability
Between 31 March and 11 April 2025, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse tested the TRML-4D sensor (radar) for the new medium-range ground-based air defence system in cooperation with the Swiss Armed Forces. A further step in the procurement process was achieved with the testing. The properties of the radar were tested in the specific Swiss topography and various investigations on frequency compatibility with civilian systems such as the weather radar were carried out. Testing took place alternately at the federally-owned “Homberg” and at the site of the Emmen aerodrome.
Switzerland participates on the NATO Science and Technology Board
Due to its contributions in the fields of research and technology over the years as part of the Partnership for Peace, Switzerland has been invited by NATO to regularly attend the meetings of the Science and Technology Board (STB) of the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO) from March 2025 onwards. From 7 to 9 April 2025, Switzerland will be represented by the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse at the STB meeting in Brussels, where it will present its priorities in the area of research and technology development.
Air2030: Radar sensors of the Air Force: Fourth system in operation after modernisation
The radar sensors of the air surveillance and central dispatching system of the Swiss Air Force have been modernised. On 20 March 2025, armasuisse handed over the fourth and last completely rebuilt system of the Armed Forces for operational deployment. The conversion, which is being carried out as part of the “Radar” project, took place step by step at each location. The modernisation of the radar sensors was approved in the 2016 armament programme.
Federal Council approves Switzerland's participation in the NSPA PATRIOT Support Partnership
To strengthen security and increase the availability of spare parts for ground-based air defence, the Federal Council has approved Switzerland's participation in the NATO Support and Procurement Agency Patriot Support Partnership (NSPA PATRIOT SP). The partnership also includes maintenance, ammunition monitoring, technical, procurement, training and transportation support.
Switzerland welcomes the international military sporting elite: Military World Winter Games 2025
From 23 to 30 March Switzerland will be the global stage for the 5th Military World Winter Games under the aegis of the International Military Sports Council (CISM). Top-class Swiss and international military athletes will compete against each other in ten different disciplines. The competitions, which are being held under the motto ‘Military Champions for Peace’ hashtag #Lucerne2025, will take place at six venues, with Lucerne forming the organisational heart as host city.
Participation in Singapore Defence Technology Summit 2025
From 18 to 20 March 2025, a delegation from the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse led by Deputy National Armaments Director Thomas Rothacher will attend the “Singapore Defence Technology Summit 2025”. The conference will raise the topic of how modern defence technologies and partnerships can contribute to overcoming the challenges of an uncertain future. In addition, Ng Chad-Son, Chief Executive of the Singaporean Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), will sign the Memorandum of Understanding on the increased defence technology cooperation between Switzerland and Singapore, which the Federal Council approved on 14 March.
Switzerland to take part in NATO crisis management exercise (CMX25)
Switzerland, represented by federal offices from the DDPS and the FDFA, is taking part in NATO's crisis management exercise (CMX25), which runs from 13 to 18 March. The exercise will enable Switzerland to strengthen its cooperation while practising crisis management within an international framework.
Reporting cyberattacks on critical infrastructure mandatory from 1 April
At its meeting on 7 March, the Federal Council introduced a reporting obligation for cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, which will come into force on 1 April. Operators of critical infrastructure will be required to report cyberattacks to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) within 24 hours of discovery. These reports will enable the NCSC to assist victims of cyberattacks and alert operators of critical infrastructure.
UEFA Women’s EURO: DDPS signs human rights declaration
Sport minister Viola Amherd along with representatives of UEFA, Women’s EURO 2025 SA, the Swiss Football Association (SFA) and the host cities have signed a human rights declaration for the 2025 women’s European football championship in Switzerland.
Taskforce Drones of the DDPS invites industry to an information event
The Taskforce Drones invites companies to an information event on the topic of small drones on 28 February 2025. The event will focus on information of the Taskforce Drones, insights into potential forms of cooperation with public authorities and export law. The Taskforce Drones aims to be able to develop small and medium-sized drones independently in Switzerland and deploy them in the Armed Forces.
Cybersecurity: NCSC Director Florian Schütz attends various international events
To strengthen international cooperation in cybersecurity, Florian Schütz, director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), has been attending various international cybersecurity events over the past few days. He chaired a panel at the AI Action Summit in Paris on building trust in artificial intelligence, met with cybersecurity authorities ahead of the Munich Security Conference and took part in a discussion at the Munich Cybersecurity Conference on the latest developments and best practices.
Cyber-Defence Campus of the DDPS identifies vulnerabilities in collision warning system of civil aviation
The Cyber-Defence Campus of the DDPS has found two vulnerabilities in the collision warning system “Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) II” of civil aviation. On 21 January 2025, the detected and published vulnerabilities were classified by the American Cyber Defence Agency CISA and the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) of the USA as moderate to severe.
President Karin Keller-Sutter and DDPS head Viola Amherd to take part in the Munich Security Conference
President Karin Keller-Sutter, Head of the Federal Department of Finance (FDF), and Federal Councillor Viola Amherd, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), will be attending the 61st Munich Security Conference, which is taking place at the end of the week. The conference, which will be opened on Friday, 14 February by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, will focus on global security challenges such as democratic resilience.
Idea competition for environmentally friendly and safe recovery methods of ammunition from Swiss lakes – armasuisse has received around 100 ideas
Today, 6 February 2025, is the deadline for submitting ideas for environmentally friendly and safe methods of recovering ammunition from Swiss lakes. A committee of experts will now assess all the proposals received. The three best ideas will be awarded prizes in May 2025.
Federal Intelligence Service to participate in Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) Centre of Excellence
At its meeting on 29 January 2025, the Federal Council approved the signing of a memorandum of understanding that will allow Switzerland to participate in the OSINT Centre of Excellence. This will strengthen the Federal Intelligence Service’s early detection capabilities for threats, dangers and crises.
Cyber Security Centre Director Florian Schütz attends WEF
At the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, cybersecurity was a major theme at a number of side events attended by a small delegation from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), led by Director Florian Schütz. Among other things, Mr Schütz took part in a panel discussion on policy and strategic approaches to strengthening trust in digital products and the use of artificial intelligence in post-quantum cryptography. The delegation also attended the Geneva Dialogue event (a platform for exchanging ideas on responsible behaviour in cyberspace) at the House of Switzerland, and held bilateral meetings with representatives of the cybersecurity industry.
Deputy Chief of Armament to take part in the Annual Conference of the European Defence Agency
The Deputy Chief of Armament Thomas Rothacher is to take part with a delegation at the annual conference of the European Defence Agency (EDA) in Brussels on 22 January 2025. The topic of the conference will be: “New horizons in EU defence: enhancing ambitions, accelerating actions”. Meetings with representatives from NATO and the EDA are also planned.
Programme of members of the Federal Council attending the 2025 WEF Annual Meeting
The 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum will take place in Davos next week. Six members of the Federal Council will be attending the event. President Karin Keller-Sutter will open the event together with WEF founder Prof. Klaus Schwab on Tuesday, 21 January.
Chief of Armament welcomes his counterparts from Sweden
Chief of Armament Urs Loher will be meeting with the Swedish Chief of Armament Göran Mårtensson from 16 to 17 January 2025 as part of a bilateral meeting in Switzerland. The focus will be on discussions with representatives of the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse on current topics.
Flight operations with the ADS 15 in Switzerland have been temporarily suspended following an incident involving the Indian armed forces
Flight operation with the reconnaissance drone system (ADS 15) of the Swiss Armed Forces has been temporarily suspended following an incident with a Hermes 900 HFE drone in India.
Director department Procurement Integrated Air Defence moves to private sector
Darko Savic, Director department Procurement Integrated Air Defence, will leave the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse at the end of April 2025 after around 16 years. He will be taking on a new challenge in the industry.
Major General Patrick Gauchat appointed acting head of United Nations peace support mission UNDOF in the Golan Heights
At its meeting on 20 December, the Federal Council approved the temporary appointment of Major General Patrick Gauchat as head of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights. He will carry out this task ad interim and in addition to his role as head of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO).
Federal Air Transport Service: New state aircraft landed in Switzerland
The new state aircraft type Bombardier Global 7500 landed on 19th of December 2024 in Switzerland. In future, the Swiss Confederation will thus have a state aircraft with state of the art technology in terms of security, efficiency and performance. The first deployment of the Bombardier Global 7500 aircraft by the Federal Air Transport Service is planned early in 2025.
«Today marks a milestone in the stabilisation and further development of bilateral relations»
Media statement by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), following the meeting with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen marking the conclusion of negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union, Bern, Friday, 20 December 2024.
Switzerland and the European Union welcome outcome of negotiations
President Viola Amherd and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen met in Bern on Friday, 20 December, to mark the conclusion of negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union. They welcomed the outcome of the negotiations and discussed current issues regarding European policy and global developments.
Federal Council takes note of substantive conclusion of Swiss–EU negotiations
At its meeting on 20 December 2024, the Federal Council took note with satisfaction the material conclusion of negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union (EU). It noted that the Swiss delegation, led by chief negotiator Patric Franzen, has met the objectives set under the negotiating mandate. The Federal Council has instructed the relevant departments to undertake the preparatory work needed to formally conclude negotiations.
Switzerland and Portugal reaffirm their excellent relations
During her visit to Portugal on Monday, 16 December, President Viola Amherd met with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. During the talks, both sides commended the excellent relations between Switzerland and Portugal. Other topics of discussion included European policy, the security situation and global developments.
Federal Council adopts Digital Switzerland Strategy 2025
On 13 December, the Federal Council adopted the updated Digital Switzerland Strategy for 2025 and selected new focus themes, thereby setting its current priorities.
President Amherd invited to pay state visit to Portugal
President Viola Amherd has been invited to pay a state visit to Portugal, which will take place next week. At the meeting with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Luís Montenegro on Monday, 16 December, discussions will focus on relations between Switzerland and Portugal, European policy, the security situation and global developments.
President Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Beat Jans meet with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić
On Thursday, 5 December, President Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Beat Jans met with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić in Bern. The talks with President Amherd focused on bilateral relations between Switzerland and Serbia, developments in the Western Balkans and the war in Ukraine, while those with Federal Councillor Jans covered issues related to migration and security.
Federal Council to evaluate legal form of RUAG MRO
At its meeting on 27 November, the Federal Council decided to evaluate the possibility of converting RUAG MRO Holding AG (RUAG MRO) into a public-law entity. The DDPS will now examine various options and prepare a bill for consultation on the revision of the Federal Act on Federal Armaments Companies by end of May 2025.
Federal Council appoints Jürg Rötheli as chairman of RUAG MRO’s board of directors
At its meeting on 27 November, the Federal Council appointed Jürg Rötheli as Chairman of the Board of Directors of RUAG MRO Holding AG (RUAG MRO). Mr Rötheli will take up his position on 1 January 2025.
Federal Council to develop Armaments Policy Strategy
The continuing deterioration in the security situation calls for a revision of the existing armaments policy and for the Federal Council to exercise greater strategic control. At its meeting on 27 November, the Federal Council therefore instructed the DDPS to develop an Armaments Policy Strategy to be adopted by mid-2025.
State Secretary for Security Policy to attend Halifax International Security Forum
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will represent Switzerland at the Halifax International Security Forum in Canada from 22 to 24 November. He will be discussing current security policy developments and challenges with experts in the field and hold a number of bilateral talks.
Federal Council approves Swiss participation in NATO crisis management exercise
At its meeting on 20 November 2024, the Federal Council approved Switzerland’s participation in a NATO exercise that focuses on crisis management. The exercise will take place in spring 2025.
President Amherd and Federal Councillor Parmelin receive Swedish Minister for Civil Defence Bohlin in Bern
On 12 November, President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER), will receive Sweden’s Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin in Bern for an exchange on current security policy issues.
Digital Switzerland Advisory Board: Cybersecurity is an important basis for digitalisation
At the meeting of the Digital Switzerland Advisory Board on 8 November, the National Cyberstrategy (NCS) was the focus of discussions. Under the leadership of the President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd and with the participation of Federal Chancellor Viktor Rossi, representatives of the cantons, business, science and civil society took stock of cybersecurity measures and highlighted the challenges and opportunities of the current strategy.
A cyberincident reported every 8.5 minutes
Cyberthreats are increasing significantly: so far this year, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has received, on average, a cyberincident report every 8.5 minutes. With 34,789 cyberincidents reported to the NCSC in the first half of 2024, numbers have almost doubled compared to the same period last year. The increase is due in particular to a massive rise in fraud attempts, which at 23,104 cases account for two thirds of all reports. Most of these cases involve telephone fraud, as explained in a separate report.
Address by Ms Viola Amherd, President of the Swiss Confederation on the occasion of the state visit by Mr Petr Pavel, President of the Czech Republic
Address by Ms Viola Amherd, President of the Swiss Confederation, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), on the occasion of the state visit by Czech President Petr Pavel, Bern, Wednesday, 6 November 2024.
Czech President Petr Pavel on state visit to Switzerland
On Wednesday, 6 November, the second day of the state visit, the president of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, and First Lady Eva Pavlová were received on Bundesplatz by the federal government, led by President Viola Amherd. The official speeches and the talks that followed focused on the security situation and outlook for the European continent, as well as on bilateral relations between Switzerland and the Czech Republic.
New artillery system – type selected
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse has completed the evaluation for a new artillery system and selected a type. It is planned to apply to Parliament for the procurement of the system AGM Artillery Gun Module on Piranha IV from the company KNDS Deutschland with the Armed Forces Dispatch 2025.
President Amherd to travel to Budapest for fifth European Political Community Summit
The fifth European Political Community (EPC) Summit will take place in Budapest on Thursday, 7 November. President Amherd will represent Switzerland at the meeting, which will be attended by representatives from around 45 European states, the institutions of the European Union (EU) and other organisations.
The start-up “Patronus AI” wins over the DDPS in the Cyber Start-up Challenge 2024
The Cyber Start-up Challenge of the Cyber-Defence Campus of armasuisse Science and Technology is held every year to find relevant start-ups and innovative technologies in the cyber area. In this year’s Cyber Start-up Challenge contest, the start-up “Patronus AI” won over the jury with a platform for automated evaluation and safeguarding of LLMs. In 2025, the start-up will be able to demonstrate its solution to the DDPS in practice in a feasibility study.
Czech President Petr Pavel to pay state visit to Switzerland
Next week the Federal Council, led by President Viola Amherd, will receive the President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, for a state visit. The Federal Council’s invitation to President Pavel and First Lady Eva Pavlová reflects the excellent relations between Switzerland and the Czech Republic. In addition to shared values and vibrant political, economic and cultural exchanges, the two countries share close personal and historical ties.
Swiss National Armaments Director takes part in the Conference of National Armaments Directors of NATO
The Swiss National Armaments Director Urs Loher takes part in the annual NATO Conference of National Armaments Directors (CNAD) on 24 October 2024, which is held with NATO partner states in Brussels. This year, talks will focus on a potential stronger commitment of the partner states with NATO. The National Armaments Director takes the opportunity to meet with his counterparts for bilateral talks at the event. In addition, the National Armaments Director will attend meetings with the European Defence Agency as well as with the European Union-Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS).
Address by President Viola Amherd at the open debate of the UN Security Council on women in peace processes
Address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the open debate of the UN Security Council on women in peace processes (Women, Peace, Security), New York, Thursday, 24 October 2024.
« Switzerland's Security 2024 »: The Federal Intelligence Service publishes its latest situation report
Switzerland's security environment continues to deteriorate from year to year. Of the strategic patterns currently emerging, the closer military cooperation between a group of Eurasian autocracies is one of the most concerning. The Federal Intelligence Service’s (FIS) abilities to anticipate, identify and assess in time threats and developments that are of strategic importance to Switzerland are crucial for taking preventive measures. The latest FIS situation report presents the main developments in intelligence over the past year.
President Amherd to chair open debate of UN Security Council on women’s participation in peace processes
President Viola Amherd will chair the annual open debate on women, peace and security (WPS) in New York on Thursday, 24 October, as part of Switzerland's presidency of the UN Security Council. The debate will be accompanied by events highlighting the role of women in peace processes and protection against sexual violence.
armasuisse takes part in DACH meeting of research directors
On 21 and 22 October 2024, Thomas Rothacher, Head of armasuisse Science and Technology, will take part with a delegation in a meeting of the research directors from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The meeting will be characterised by increased international cooperation with the focus on robotics, drone defence and systems for the soldiers.
Switzerland signs declaration of accession to the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI)
After the member states of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) agreed to Switzerland’s application for admission, Chief of Armament Urs Loher signed the MoU and the unilateral declaration of accession by Switzerland on 17 October 2024. Switzerland will thus become the 15th member of the ESSI.
Humanitarian mine clearance: Confederation establishes comprehensive partnership with Ukraine’s civil protection service and Swiss mine clearance company
In order to reduce the danger posed by mines and other explosive ordnance in Ukraine, the Swiss government is supporting Ukraine’s civil protection service through a partnership with the Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions (GCS). The partnership involves supplying three mine clearance systems to Ukraine alongside a comprehensive training, mentoring and logistics package. The package, which amounts to CHF 4.6 million, is being funded by the federal government and underlines the importance of humanitarian mine clearance for the country’s recovery.
International appeal for humanitarian demining in Ukraine adopted in Lausanne
The first day of the Ukraine Mine Action Conference 2024 ended today with the presentation of the Lausanne Call for Action, which reaffirms the support of the majority of the countries present for humanitarian demining in Ukraine and around the world. The appeal calls for the needs of victims and disabled people to be addressed and promoting partnership and innovation to increase effectiveness in mine action. The conference, held in Lausanne at the EHL Hospitality Business School, brings together representatives of states, international organisations and partners in humanitarian demining.
Opening address by President Viola Amherd at the Ukraine Mine Action Conference UMAC2024
Opening address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the Ukraine Mine Action Conference UMAC2024, Lausanne, Thursday, 17 October 2024.
President Amherd visits Poland in view of its upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union
On Thursday, 17 October, President Viola Amherd met with Poland’s President Andrzej Duda to discuss their countries’ bilateral relations, the negotiations between Switzerland and the EU, the security situation in Europe, migration matters and geopolitical developments. Poland will hold the presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2025.
President Amherd visits Poland in the run-up to Polish presidency of the Council of the EU
President Viola Amherd will travel to Warsaw this week. During her visit, she will meet with Polish President Andrzej Duda on 17 October and also hold talks with the heads of Poland’s parliamentary chambers, Marshall of the Sejm Szymon Hołownia and Marshall of the Senate Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska. Poland will assume the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2025.
DDPS cedes anti-tank guided missile delivery date to Germany
The DDPS has agreed to Germany’s request to postpone the delivery of some of the RGW90 shoulder-launched anti-tank guided missiles ordered by both countries. This is compatible with Switzerland’s neutrality. The Federal Council was informed of this decision at its meeting on 9 October
Humanitarian demining in Ukraine: Federal Council reinforces cooperation with the Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD)
The Swiss government is to provide CHF 30 million to support the work of the Geneva-based Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD) in Ukraine until 2027. The decision, which was made at the Federal Council's meeting on 9 October 2024, underscores the importance of humanitarian demining in Ukraine's reconstruction.
Florian Schütz attends Counter Ransomware Initiative annual summit
Florian Schütz, Director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), took part last week in the Counter Ransomware Initiative annual summit as head of the Swiss delegation. Approaches and solutions to combat ransomware attacks were discussed and concrete measures presented at the four-day summit. In a bilateral meeting, the NCSC director and the director of the Information Tech-nology Laboratory of the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) agreed to boost their technical cooperation.
Switzerland delivers 30 rubble-clearing machines and 30 fire pumps to Ukraine
Switzerland is organising a new shipment of equipment for Ukraine. This includes machines to clear rubble and debris, as well as firefighting equipment, which will be handed over to Ukraine's civil protection agency.The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) of the FDFA will finance and coordinate the transport. The Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) has donated the equipment, valued at CHF 5.6 million.
Military training area Herisau-Gossau: Amphibian monitoring confirms successful promotion of biodiversity
The Herisau-Gossau military training area includes an amphibian spawning ground of national significance. armasuisse and the Armed Forces are bolstering endangered amphibian species with regular support measures. The 2024 monitoring confirms the constantly high amphibian population on the site.
State Secretary for Security Policy and Chief of the Armed Forces to attend Warsaw Security Forum
On 1 and 2 October, experts from Europe and North America will exchange views on current security policy developments and challenges at the Warsaw Security Forum (WSF). Switzerland will be represented at the event by Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, and Thomas Süssli, Chief of the Armed Forces.
Address by President Viola Amherd on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of CERN
Address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of CERN, Geneva, Tuesday, 1 October 2024.
Heads of state and government celebrate 70 years of CERN in Geneva
On 1 October, representatives of the countries that belong to or are associated with the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) gathered in Geneva to celebrate its 70th anniversary. On behalf of Switzerland as a founding member and host country, President Viola Amherd paid tribute to CERN's achievements.
AI in cyberattacks – the NCSC's focus during European Cyber Security Month
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used in cyberattacks, particularly social engineering attacks. For this year's European Cyber Security Month (ECSM), the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will be raising public awareness of this cyberthreat. The ECSM takes place every October and is organised by the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) together with the European member states.
2024 National Cybersecurity Conference: focus on geopolitics and operational security
Cyberthreats play an important role in today's tense geopolitical climate, but they have long been an everyday risk for businesses and governments. The National Cybersecurity Conference held today highlighted how a comprehensive approach can be taken to tackle cyberthreats. In her opening remarks, President Viola Amherd stated that the foundations for cybersecurity are now in place so that emphasis can now be placed on setting strategic priorities. The conference, organised by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Swiss Security Network (SSN), was attended by over 280 participants from business, science, and cantonal and federal offices.
Statement by the President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd at the UN Security Council
Statement by the President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the UN Security Council, open debate ‘Leadership for Peace’, New York, Wednesday, 25 September 2024.
Speech by President Viola Amherd at the UN General Debate
Speech by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the UN General Debate, New, York, Tuesday, 24 September 2024.
President Amherd emphasises Switzerland’s commitment to peace and calls for strengthening of multilateralism in New York
In her speech to the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, 24 September, President Viola Amherd focused on peacebuilding and international humanitarian law. She emphasised Switzerland's commitment to strong and effective multilateralism.
Address by President Viola Amherd at the UN Summit of the Future
Address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the UN Summit of the Future, New, York, Sunday, 22 September 2024.
Switzerland hosts Ukraine Mine Action Conference 2024 in Lausanne
On 17 and 18 October 2024, the Ukraine Mine Action Conference (UMAC2024) will be held at the EHL Hospitality Business School in Lausanne. The aim of the conference, which is being co-organised with Ukraine, is to highlight the critical importance of humanitarian demining as part of the country's social and economic recovery. The conference by Lake Geneva will bring together representatives from governments, international organisations, humanitarian demining and civil society.
President of the Confederation Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis to represent Switzerland at opening of the 79th UN General Assembly
At its meeting on 13 September 2024, the Federal Council was briefed on the outcome of the consultation of the foreign affairs committees in the run-up to the 79th session of the UN General Assembly. President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will travel to New York where they will represent Switzerland during the high-level opening week of the 79th UN General Assembly from 22 to 25 September 2024.
State Secretary Mäder to attend REAIM Summit and visit the NNSC in the Republic of Korea
On 9 and 10 September, State Secretary Markus Mäder will represent Switzerland at the Summit on Responsible Use of AI in the Military Domain (REAIM 2024) in Seoul. Subsequently the State Secretary will visit the Swiss officers stationed in the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission (NNSC).
New artillery system: Practical testing completed
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse has completed the practical testing of the three systems on the shortlist as part of the evaluation of a new artillery system. The tests took place in cooperation with industry and the Armed Forces between January 2023 and June 2024 in Switzerland and abroad. It was checked whether the systems meet the requirements. The results and findings will be evaluated over the next few months and summarised in an evaluation report.
armasuisse performs trials for defence against minidrones
During August and September 2024, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is performing trials for defence against minidrones with several systems. The trials are intended to provide insights on the efficiency of the drone defence systems. The aim of this procurement project is to systematically establish capabilities in drone defence within the framework of the Army Dispatch 2027.
Alpnach military airfield: ground broken for vehicle depot and workshop extension
Representatives of the Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) have broken the ground on Alpnach military airfield for the new vehicle storage depot and an extension building. The DDPS is investing CHF 18 million in the building project, which is scheduled for completion by early 2026. Construction will be to high ecological standards. This includes wooden-clad façades and photovoltaic installations on the roofs capable of generating 324 megawatt-hours per year.
Cybersecurity in the supply chain
The increasing interconnectedness of systems along the supply chain provides cybercriminals with many different ways to attack an organisation. It is therefore important for companies and public authorities to understand their supply chains and be aware of the cyber risks they face. National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has launched a pilot project together with Planzer Transport AG so that companies, authorities and organizations in Switzerland can easily implement their cyber security requirements in the supply chain. A simple cycle was designed to demonstrate protective measures against cyber attacks in the supply chain. The pilot project also provides specific tools that are published on the NCSC website. At the Online Brownbag Lunch on 5 September 2024, the NCSC and Planzer Transport AG will demonstrate how organizations can correctly assess cyber risks in their supply chains.
Reconnaissance technologies: armasuisse tests performance limits of drone-based radar systems with NATO-PfP research partners
From 19 to 23 August 2024 the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse carried out drone reconnaissance technology tests as part of a NATO/PfP research campaign. The aim was to test the performance limits of drone-based radar systems at different frequencies and on different drones, and measure their effectiveness.
Federal Council approves Switzerland's participation in two PESCO projects
At its meeting on 21 August, the Federal Council approved Switzerland's participation in two EU Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) projects. The two projects, Military Mobility and Cyber Ranges Federation, offer the opportunity to expand international cooperation between armed forces. This will strengthen Switzerland's national defence capability. Switzerland’s work on the projects will be carried out in accordance with its neutrality obligations.
armasuisse launches idea competition for environmentally friendly and safe recovery methods of ammunition from Swiss waters
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is seeking new procedures for the environmentally friendly and safe recovery of ammunition from Swiss waters by means of an idea competition. The three best competition entries will be awarded prize money of altogether 50,000 Swiss Francs. It is not planned to implement the submitted entries immediately, but they could serve as the basis for further clarifications or for launching research projects.
Switzerland and Japan commemorate the anniversary of bilateral relations and discuss opportunities for future cooperation
President Viola Amherd travelled to Tokyo on Wednesday, 7 August to meet with Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. In honour of the 160th anniversary of bilateral relations, the talks focused on the further development of friendly ties between Switzerland and Japan, prospects in Europe and East Asia, and the global security architecture.
Switzerland and Mongolia recognise successes and opportunities in their relations
On 2 August, President Amherd met with Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh in Ulaanbaatar on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of relations between the two countries. They discussed past successes and new opportunities for exchanges between Switzerland and Mongolia. It was the first visit to Mongolia by a Swiss president. The two parties signed a joint declaration on future cooperation and a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening democratic institutions in Mongolia.
Celebrating anniversaries of bilateral relations: President Amherd to visit Mongolia and Japan in early August
President Viola Amherd will travel to Mongolia and Japan in early August with the aim of further strengthening Switzerland’s relations with these democratic East Asian nations. The two visits will provide an opportunity to celebrate long-standing relations: Switzerland has maintained bilateral relations with Mongolia for 60 years and with Japan for 160 years.
Speech by President Viola Amherd at fourth meeting of the European Political Community
Speech by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at fourth meeting of the European Political Community, Woodstock UK, Thursday, July 18, 2024.
Detection of improvised explosive devices: armasuisse takes part in a European Defence Agency project
Improvised explosive devices are set to be able to be detected quicker and more reliably in the future. The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is taking part in a European Defence Agency (EDA) research project on this topic. The Deputy Chief of Armament Thomas Rothacher signed the agreement to participate in the “Improvised Explosive Device Detection – Phase II” (IEDDET II) project on 16 July 2024.
President Amherd to represent Switzerland at fourth meeting of the European Political Community
On Thursday, 18 July, President Viola Amherd will attend the fourth meeting of the European Political Community (EPC), which will take place at the historic Blenheim Palace in the market town of Woodstock in southern England. In addition to the UK and Switzerland, 45 states, the institutions of the European Union (EU) and other organisations will also attend the meeting.
Florian Schütz in Seoul to take part in the OECD's Global Forum on Digital Security for Prosperity
Florian Schütz, Director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and Chairman of the Working Party on Digital Security (WPDS) of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), will take part in the Global Forum on Digital Security for Prosperity, which is being held in Seoul from 10 to 11 July 2024. His schedule includes chairing a panel dealing with the topic of regulation in digital security. The aim of the event is to conduct a joint dialogue, exchange experiences and work on the development of public strategies in the field of digital security.
armasuisse holds round table on the topic of drones
On July 9, 2024 the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse held a round table on the topic «Drones» with representatives from industry and the DDPS. In the near future, it is planned for Switzerland to be able to deploy a large number of different types of drones in order to respond to threats and increase the defence capability of the Armed Forces.
Chief of Armament signs application for membership with regard to accession to the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI)
The Federal Council wants to join the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) and thus increase opportunities for international cooperation in ground-based air defence. Following the decision of the Federal Council, Chief of Armament Urs Loher now signed an application for membership addressed to the Chairperson of the ESSI on 8 July 2024. All member states of ESSI can now express themselves on the application, after which Switzerland can sign the statement of accession.
Current figures on offset transactions as of end of June 2024
The Offset Register currently comprises seventeen offset obligations in the amount of CHF 5.36 billion, which must be awarded by foreign suppliers to Swiss companies. Of this, offset transactions in the amount of around CHF 2.15 billion have been carried out as at the end of June 2024.
Study results on threats and impacts of generative artificial intelligence on cyber security
The emergence of new cyber technologies is also accompanied by new threats and impacts. The Cyber-Defence Campus of the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is publishing an Open Access study on this topic for the second time. This highlights the risks and challenges which arise through the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in cyber security. The study helps experts and decision-makers from public administration and industry in assessing the risks of use and the development of security measures.
Medium-range ground-based air defence – Kongsberg and MBDA will not submit offers
The Norwegian defence group Kongsberg and the European missiles systems company MBDA have informed the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse that they will not be taking part in the tender for a new system for medium-range ground-based air defence. The evaluation process will continue as planned.
“D-A-CH” meeting on the security policy situation
President Viola Amherd, head of the DDPS, is attending the annual high-level meeting of the defence ministers of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The meeting takes place on 2 and 3 July in Vienna.
International training course on assistance and protection against chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals
Trainers from the NBC EOD Centre of Competence will teach the basics of chemical emergency survival to 25 representatives from States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The State Secretariat for Security Policy (SEPOS) is coordinating the course in cooperation with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
35 years of UN missions by the armed forces – further steps to strengthen Switzerland's engagement
35 years ago, Swiss soldiers were deployed to UNTAG in Namibia. It was the first time that Switzerland had contributed to a UN mission. Over time, the Swiss Armed Forces have proven themselves to be a reliable partner of this organisation. By registering with the UN Peacekeeping Capability Readiness System, Switzerland will be able to strengthen this cooperation in the future. As a next step, the UN will carry out an assessment of the Swiss Armed Forces' registered capabilities.
Summit on Peace in Ukraine: first NCSC report on Cyber Situation Network
Even before the Summit on Peace in Ukraine got under way, cyberattacks on the conference and network infrastructure in Switzerland were expected. A number of cyberattacks were then confirmed, but they were all detected early and quickly averted. In order to jointly counter the expected cyberattacks, Switzerland set up a Cyber Situation Network coordinated by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). Today, the NCSC published an initial review of the work of the Cyber Situation Network.
Influence activities and disinformation: Federal Council emphasises resilience and strengthens analysis and coordination
At its meeting on 19 June, the Federal Council approved the report in fulfilment of postulate 22.3006, submitted by the National Council Security Policy Committee, on the threat posed to Switzerland by disinformation campaigns. The report sets out the extent to which Switzerland is affected by influence activities in the information space, which specific Swiss characteristics are relevant in this context and what additional measures the Federal Council intends to take to counter these threats.
Cyber Europe 2024: Focus on the energy sector
Cyber Europe 2024, the 7th edition of the European cyber exercise, will take place over the next two days. In recent years, exercises have been based on scenarios covering the healthcare sector, civil aviation and telecommunications. This year, the focus is on the energy sector. Switzerland is a co-organiser and an important partner of Cyber Europe 2024. Under the lead of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the exercise will also involve other federal agencies and around 30 organisations from the Swiss energy sector.
Closing address by President Viola Amherd at the Summit on Peace in Ukraine
Closing address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, Bürgenstock, Sunday, 16 June 2024.
States at Summit on Peace in Ukraine agree on common positions and next steps
At the close of the Summit on Peace in Ukraine on Sunday, 16 June, the vast majority of participating states agreed on jointly formulated positions and next steps with a view to a future peace process. President Viola Amherd commended the joint communiqué that emerged from the Bürgenstock summit as a strong signal from the international community for peace based on international law and the UN Charter. 92 states from all regions of the world took part in the summit, 57 of which were represented by heads of state and government.
Opening address by President Viola Amherd at the Summit on Peace in Ukraine
Opening address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, Bürgenstock, Saturday, 15 June 2024.
Switzerland receives 100 state guests for Summit on Peace in Ukraine
President Viola Amherd will open the summit on peace in Ukraine on Saturday, 15 June. 100 delegations will attend the summit, including 57 heads of state and government from around the world. The aim of the summit is to initiate a peace process, generate trust and outline ideas for the next steps towards such a process. All states present should be given the opportunity to put forward their visions for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
President Amherd meets with Brazilian President Lula da Silva in Geneva
President Viola Amherd met with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in Geneva on Thursday. The talks focused on bilateral relations between Switzerland and Brazil and differing perspectives as to how to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
Chief of Armament Urs Loher on a working visit to Norway
Chief of Armament Urs Loher will travel to Norway for a bilateral meeting with his Norwegian counterpart Rolf Kjos. Within this meeting, the discussions will focus on current issues and procurement projects such as the medium-range ground-based air defence programme.
Nepal’s President Paudel pays courtesy visit to President Amherd
The Nepalese president Ramchandra Paudel paid a courtesy visit to his Swiss counterpart Viola Amherd on Wednesday 12 June. Switzerland and Nepal have maintained diplomatic relations since the early 1950s. On Wednesday, both sides recognised the friendliness of the relations between their two countries, their successful development cooperation and the potential for bilateral exchange.
Swiss president meets Portugal’s president and prime minister
President Viola Amherd met Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Luís Montenegro on Wednesday, 12 June. The talks in Bern focused on the countries’ close bilateral relations, European policy, the upcoming summit on peace in Ukraine and cooperation between Switzerland and Portugal at multilateral level.
Introducing SMEs to cybersecurity
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) joined forces with the association ITSec4KMU to organise an awareness-raising event on cybersecurity for SMEs. This free event held at the Cinématte in Bern gave more than 100 interested representatives from SMEs an easy introduction to this important topic. There are plans to repeat the event in other regions of Switzerland.
Cooperation on military training: Slovenia and Switzerland sign agreement
The head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports, President Viola Amherd, and Slovenian Defence Minister Marjan Šarec signed an agreement in Bern on 10 June to strengthen cooperation on military training. The talks also focused on the current security situation in the Middle East, Ukraine and the Western Balkans.
Summit on Peace in Ukraine: state of preparations and security measures
90 states and organisations have so far registered to attend the summit on peace in Ukraine at the Bürgenstock (NW) on 15/16 June. The aim of the high-level meeting of heads of state and government is to develop a common understanding for a possible path towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. This will then form the basis for a peace process. On 10 June, President Viola Amherd, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis and Nidwalden Cantonal Councillor Karin Kayser-Frutschi, together with Stephan Grieder, head of operations and chief of the Nidwalden Cantonal Police, and Major General Daniel Keller, Commander of Territorial Division 2, gave a briefing on the state of preparations and security measures.
Summit on Peace in Ukraine at the Bürgenstock: Confederation to contribute to security costs
The Summit on Peace in Ukraine will take place on 15 and 16 June 2024 at the Bürgenstock resort in the canton of Nidwalden. A major security operation is in place to ensure the safety of the event and those attending. At its meeting on 7 June 2024, the Federal Council decided to consider the summit an 'extraordinary event'. This means that the Confederation will contribute to the security costs borne by the canton of Nidwalden.
DDPS sets up National Cyberstrategy steering committee
A steering committee has been set up to manage the National Cyberstrategy (NCS) implementation process. It supports the federal, cantonal, business and academic bodies concerned in implementing the NCS in a targeted and effective manner. The Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) appointed the members of the steering committee and informed the Federal Council of the appointments at the latter's meeting on 7 June.
Standardisation of small calibre ammunition: armasuisse takes part in European Defence Agency project
Switzerland is further expanding its international cooperation with the European Defence Agency (EDA). The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is taking part in a project in which the requirements for the effectiveness of small calibre ammunition are to be standardised and the technologies for these bullets thus optimised. The Head of the DDPS, Federal President Viola Amherd, has authorised the corresponding agreement on participation in the project “Small Arms Ammunition Technologies”.
State Secretary for Security Policy and Chief of the Armed Forces to attend Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore
From 31 May to 2 June, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) will bring together representatives from the security sector from the Asia-Pacific region, North America, Europe and the Middle East at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue to discuss current security policy challenges in Asia. Switzerland will be represented at the security summit by State Secretary for Security Policy Markus Mäder and Chief of the Armed Forces Thomas Süssli.
President Amherd and Bulgarian president Radev discuss bilateral relations, Europe and the security situation
On Monday 27 May, Swiss president Viola Amherd and Bulgarian president Rumen Radev discussed bilateral relations between their two countries, European policy, the security situation on the continent and the strengthening of multilateralism. The meeting took place in Bern.
Cyber Defence Campus launches Cyber Startup Challenge 2024
The DDPS Cyber Defence Campus is once again organising a Cyber Startup Challenge this year. Under the motto «Security of Artificial Intelligence», innovative solutions in the field of security of machine learning models (ML) and security checks in the field of artificial intelligence are being sought. The winner will receive a contract for a proof of concept and will be able to demonstrate their solution in a real DDPS environment. The closing date for applications is 31 August 2024.
Diplomatic corps to visit Pierre Gianadda Foundation in Martigny and Olympic Museum in Lausanne
At the invitation of President Viola Amherd, members of the diplomatic corps will visit the Pierre Gianadda Foundation in Martigny and the Olympic Museum in Lausanne on Friday, 24 May. This year’s programme showcases Switzerland’s international political, economic and cultural ties, and reflects the spirit of peaceful interaction and competition in this Olympic year.
High-level conference on peace in Ukraine: military support and airspace restriction
At its meeting on 22 May, the Federal Council approved a temporary restriction on the use of airspace during the high-level conference on peace in Ukraine, which Switzerland will be hosting on 15 and 16 June at the Bürgenstock resort in the canton of Nidwalden. The Swiss Air Force will provide air policing and advanced air surveillance services. The Armed Forces will also set up a subsidiary support service to complement the security measures of the cantonal authorities.
Federal Council launches consultation on Cybersecurity Ordinance
At its meeting on 22 May the Federal Council launched a consultation on the Cybersecurity Ordinance. The Ordinance sets out how the obligation to report cyberattacks on critical infrastructure is to be implemented, regulates how implementation of the National Cyberstrategy is to be organised and specifies the tasks of the new National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The Ordinance also specifies which authorities and companies are exempt from the reporting obligation. The consultation will run until 13 September 2024.
Trial and error approach of the «SMASH» system for ground and air targets
A technology demonstration of fire-control systems for hand-held weapons took place in Walenstadt (SG) from 15 to 17 May 2024. The trial and error approach was carried out by the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse together with the Swiss Armed Forces. The aim was to demonstrate the capability of the «SMASH» system to effectively combat ground targets and minidrones.
President Viola Amherd discusses bilateral and international matters with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz
On 15 May, President Viola Amherd met with Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin. The main topics of discussion were bilateral cooperation on issues including transport, energy and migration, European policy and the security situation. On Thursday, 16 May, Ms Amherd will hold talks with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.
Florian Schütz in Birmingham: Greater international cooperation in cybersecurity
The director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Florian Schütz, will be attending two key international events in the field of cybersecurity in Birmingham on 13–15 May. The trip is aimed at strengthening international cooperation on cybersecurity and the fight against ransomware.
President Viola Amherd to hold talks with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Chancellor Olaf Scholz
President Viola Amherd will travel to Germany this week for talks with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Chancellor Olaf Scholz on the state of bilateral relations between Switzerland and Germany and the commitment of both countries to security and prosperity. The meeting with Chancellor Scholz is scheduled for Wednesday, 15 May, and the meeting with President Steinmeier for Thursday, 16 May.
Twice as many cyber incidents reported and rise in AI scam attempts
More than 30,000 cyber incidents were reported to the NCSC in the second half of 2023, twice as many as in the same period last year. The strategy of the new federal office is based on four pillars in order to strengthen cyber security for the general public, businesses and public authorities in the face of increasing threats and the emergence of AI-driven fraud.
Europe Day
Message from President Viola Amherd to mark Europe Day, Sunday, 5 May 2024.
President Amherd meets with Italy’s President Mattarella and Prime Minister Meloni in Rome
President Viola Amherd met with Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Georgia Meloni on Friday, 3 May in Rome. The meeting focused on the good neighbourly relations between Switzerland and Italy, the ongoing negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union, the security situation in Europe and global issues.
President Amherd to visit Italy and the Holy See
Swiss President Viola Amherd will travel to Rome this week to meet Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday, 3 May. She will then spend a long weekend visiting the Holy See. While at the Vatican, Ms Amherd will meet with Pope Francis and State Secretary Pietro Parolin and attend the swearing in ceremony for new recruits to the Pontifical Swiss Guard on Monday, 6 May. A meeting with Italian defence minister Guido Crosetto is planned for the following day.
Ignazio Cassis receives Austrian Minister for Foreign Affairs Alexander Schallenberg in Bern
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the FDFA, received Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Alexander Schallenberg in Bern today. Their discussions focused on the close bilateral relations between the two countries, Switzerland's European policy, current international affairs and the security situation. Both ministers reaffirmed their joint commitment to promoting global peace.
Swiss Armed Forces to take part in world's largest cyber exercise
In April, the Swiss Armed Forces Cyber Command is taking part in 'Locked Shields 2024', the world's largest cyber defence exercise, along with national and international partners. The exercise will provide practice in warding off cyber attacks on a country's critical infrastructure, by training on the virtual infrastructure of a fictitious country. The exercise is largely conducted in a decentralised manner on a virtual training platform.
President Amherd meets the president and prime minister of Hungary prior to it assuming EU Council presidency
On Friday, 19 April, President Viola Amherd met President Tamás Sulyok, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Parliamentary Speaker László Kövér in Budapest to discuss bilateral relations, the European policy of both countries and the European security situation. Hungary will assume the EU Council presidency in the second half of the year.
Speech by President Viola Amherd at Andrássy University in Budapest
Speech by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at Andrássy University, Budapest, Thursday, 18 April 2024.
President Amherd to visit Hungary, holder of next EU Council presidency
In a few days’ time President Viola Amherd will travel to Hungary, which will assume the EU Council presidency in the second half of the year. The main topics for discussion at meetings with President Tamás Sulyok, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and the Speaker of the National Assembly László Kövér on Friday, 19 April, will include bilateral relations between Switzerland and Hungary, European policy and the security situation in Europe. On Thursday, 18 April, Ms Amherd will give a speech on these topics at Andrássy University in Budapest.
Commitment to stability and security in Kosovo: Switzerland takes over KFOR’s transport company
Today marks the transition from the 49th to the 50th Swisscoy contingent in Kosovo. Under the command of Colonel Cyrus Wagner, the new contingent begins its first deployment with an increased strength of 215 troops. This increase allows Switzerland to strengthen its contribution to security and stability in the Western Balkans by taking over the leadership of the multinational transport company of the Kosovo Force (KFOR). Over 80% of Swiss forces in Kosovo are now directly assigned to KFOR for operational mission fulfilment.
Opening address by President Viola Amherd at the International Cooperation Forum
Opening address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the 2024 International Cooperation Forum Switzerland, Basel, Thursday, 11 April 2024.
President Viola Amherd and Ethiopia’s President Sahle-Work Zewde open the International Cooperation Forum
President Viola Amherd and Ethiopia’s President Sahle-Work Zewde opened the third International Cooperation Forum (IC Forum) on Thursday, 11 April, in Basel. At a bilateral meeting, they discussed the extensive relations between Switzerland and Ethiopia as well as security issues in Europe and Africa. The IC Forum, which is organised by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), is taking place this year under the motto ‘What is peace?’ and is dedicated to building peace.
Federal Council decides to join the European Sky Shield Initiative
By participating in the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), Switzerland is increasing its international cooperation opportunities. At its meeting on 10 April, the Federal Council approved the declaration of accession to the ESSI Cooperative Procurement Framework Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The focus of the cooperation is on better coordination of procurement projects, training and logistical aspects in the area of ground-based air defence.
Switzerland to host high-level conference on peace at the Bürgenstock resort in June 2024
At its meeting on 10 April 2024, the Federal Council took note of the results of the exploratory phase of the high-level conference on peace in Ukraine. The conditions are now in place for the conference to be able to initiate a peace process. The first step is to develop a common understanding among the participating states with a view to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. The conference is scheduled for June 2024 at the Bürgenstock resort in the canton of Nidwalden.
What is peace? The main theme of the International Cooperation Forum 2024
On 11 and 12 April 2024, President of the Confederation Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will take part in the third International Cooperation Forum (IC Forum) in Basel. 'What is Peace?' will be the guiding theme for discussions between representatives from politics, academia, the private sector and civil society. The goal of the IC Forum is to identify new avenues for promoting peace.
Current figures on offset transactions as of end of March 2024
The Offset Register currently comprises seventeen offset obligations in the amount of CHF 5.34 billion, which must be awarded by foreign suppliers to Swiss companies. Of this, offset transactions in the amount of around CHF 1.97 billion have been carried out as at the end of March 2024.
Improve your digital health – launch of national cybersecurity awareness campaign focusing on updates and virus protection
Regular updates and up-to-date virus protection greatly improve cybersecurity. This is why the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Swiss Crime Prevention (SCP) and cantonal and communal police forces are now launching a further part of the national S-U-P-E-R.ch campaign emphasising the importance of up-dates and virus protection. The campaign is supported by the internet security platform iBarry and "eBanking – but secure!" (EBAS).
Discussions between the National Cyber Security Centre and the French Cybersecurity Agency (ANSSI)
Florian Schütz, Director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), will meet with his French counterpart, Vincent Strubel, Director General of the French Cybersecurity Agency (ANSSI), on 3 April to discuss cybersecurity issues and strengthen relations between the two countries.
Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons: Federal Council sees no need to change direction at this time
On the basis of a new comprehensive reassessment, the Federal Council decided at its meeting on 27 March 2024, that there is currently no reason to change its position on the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), which entered into force in 2021. It has therefore reaffirmed the conclusion it reached in 2018 and 2019 and has decided that Switzerland will not join the TPNW for the time being. The Federal Council's conclusion is based both on the assessment made in 2018–19 and recent security policy developments in Europe and globally. The Federal Council considers Switzerland's commitment to a world without nuclear weapons, pursued within the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), to be a more effective approach.
President Amherd and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen open negotiations between Switzerland and the EU
On Monday, 18 March, President Viola Amherd and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen officially opened negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union (EU) in the presence of the chief negotiators from both sides. While in Brussels, Ms Amherd also met with Maroš Šefčovič, Executive Vice President of the European Commission. In addition to bilateral relations between Switzerland and the EU, geopolitical and security policy challenges facing Europe were also discussed.
Federal Council in favour of participating in US State Partnership Program
The Federal Council wants Switzerland to participate in the State Partnership Program of the National Guard of the United States of America. This was decided at its meeting on 15 March. Participating in the programme will offer the Swiss Armed Forces the opportunity to further expand international cooperation and enhance its own defence capabilities.
President Amherd to meet with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Monday
President Viola Amherd will meet with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels on Monday, 18 March. Talks will focus on the official opening of negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union (EU). The European security situation will also be addressed.
Switzerland delivers further relief supplies to Ukraine
Since the beginning of the war against Ukraine, Switzerland has sent regular shipments of relief goods to those impacted, with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) spearheading the effort financially and logistically. The first of three aid consignments in 2024 arrived in Kyiv today. The deliveries are made up of spare parts for fire engines, humanitarian demining equipment and medical supplies. This aid, valued at around CHF 900,000, is provided from the stock of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports (DDPS) and the city of Burgdorf in the Canton of Bern.
«Peace begins with her » - Speech by State Secretary Markus Mäder
Speech by State Secretary for Security Policy Markus Mäder at the «Inside Out activation»of UN Women, on the occasion of International Women's Day, Uni Mail Geneva, Friday, 8 March 2024.
Hacker attack on Xplain: National Cyber Security Centre publishes data analysis report
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) took over responsibility for incident management in the Federal Administration in the wake of the hacker attack on Xplain, a major provider of IT services to national and cantonal authorities. Part of its activities involved analysing the data that the perpetrators published on the darknet. The NCSC released a report today explaining its analysis and providing information on what type of data was affected and the challenges associated with analysing the data. The report does not evaluate the content of the data, nor does it analyse why certain data was leaked. The latter question will be clarified as part of the ongoing administrative investigation.
Swiss President Amherd discusses bilateral relations and the European security situation at Bucharest meeting
President of the Swiss Confederation, Viola Amherd, concluded her trip to Romania by meeting with Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu on Thursday, 7 March to discuss bilateral relations, European policy issues and the current security situation. On Wednesday Ms Amherd met with President Klaus Iohannis and Finance Minister Marcel Bolos. She also attended the European People’s Party Congress in Bucharest, where her meeting with Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova, also focused on security issues.
President Amherd to meet with Romanian heads of state and government
Viola Amherd, President of the Swiss Confederation, will visit Romania on 6 and 7 March to meet with President Klaus Iohannis and Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu. Talks will focus on bilateral relations, with a particular emphasis on the second Swiss contribution, European policy and the security situation in Europe. Ms Amherd will also participate in the European People’s Party Congress in Bucharest.
Florian Schütz takes part in the Common Good Cyber Workshop 2024 in Washington D.C.
On 26 and 27 February, Switzerland will once again play an active international role in efforts to improve cyber security. Florian Schütz, Director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), will take part in the Common Good Cyber Workshop 2024 in Washington D.C., organised by the NGO Global Cyber Alliance.
Federal Council opens consultation on draft legislation to ban Hamas
Switzerland is to ban Hamas. The Federal Council decided at its meeting on 21 February to open the consultation on the necessary legal basis. The ban will also include Hamas cover and successor organisations as well as organisations that act on its behalf or in its name.
Switzerland and Norway emphasise common values and interests
President Viola Amherd met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on Wednesday, 7 February to discuss bilateral relations, the European policy of both countries and the security situation on the continent. A further topic of the talks was trade policy within the framework of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). An exchange with King Harald V is planned for Thursday, 8 February.
President Amherd meets President and Prime Minister of Estonia
On 6 February, President Viola Amherd met with President Alar Karis, Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur in the Estonian capital of Tallinn. The main topics of discussion were European policy and the security situation. A visit to the Cyber Defence Centre was also on the agenda, with a view to cooperation on cyber defence issues.
President Amherd to travel to Estonia and Norway
President Viola Amherd will pay a visit to Estonia and Norway next week. Switzerland maintains close relations with both countries. In Estonia, meetings are scheduled with President Alar Karis and Prime Minister Kaja Kallas on Tuesday, 6 February. Ms Amherd will then meet with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on Wednesday, 7 February. An exchange with King Harald V is also planned in Oslo.
Federal Council approves report on strengthening the defence capability of the Armed Forces and deepening international cooperation
At its meeting on 24 January, the Federal Council approved the Report on Defence Capability and Cooperation, which addresses postulates submitted by the Council of States Security Policy Committee SPC-S (23.3000) and Council of States member Josef Dittli (23.3131). The report sets out how Switzerland intends to strengthen the defence capabilities of its Armed Forces and achieve closer, institutionalised cooperation with NATO while maintaining its neutrality.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
Message from the President of the Swiss Confederation to mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Saturday, 27 January 2024.
Current figures on offset transactions
The Offset Register currently comprises eighteen offset obligations in the amount of CHF 5.14 billion, which must be awarded by foreign suppliers to Swiss companies. Of this, orders in the amount of around CHF 1.94 billion have been issued to Swiss industry as at the end of 2023. The figures in the Offset Register will be updated and published on a quarterly basis from 2024
Focus of President Amherd’s talks at Davos on European policy, security matters and economic development
President Viola Amherd met with around a dozen heads of state and government for lengthy bilateral talks at this year’s WEF Annual Meeting where discussions focused on Switzerland's relations with European countries and the European Union (EU), the security situation in Europe and the Middle East, and economic development. In the run-up to the Annual Meeting, President Amherd met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang.
Several Federal Administration websites disrupted temporarily by DDoS attack
A DDoS attack disrupted temporarily access to a number of websites today, including some belonging to the Federal Administration. The Russian-linked hacker group ‘NoName’ claimed responsibility for the attack, citing Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's attendance at the WEF Annual Meeting. The cyberattack was promptly detected and the Federal Administration's specialists took the necessary action to restore access to the websites as quickly as possible. An attack of this kind had been expected, and appropriate security measures were in place. DDoS attacks are aimed at making websites unavailable. They do not result in any data being lost or compromised.
Opening address by President Viola Amherd at the WEF Annual Meeting
Opening address by President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the 2024 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Tuesday, 16 January 2024.
Switzerland and China renew high-level contacts and deepen relations in the run-up to 75th anniversary
On Monday, 15 January, a Federal Council delegation led by President Viola Amherd received a Chinese delegation led by Premier Li Qiang at the Lohn Estate for an official visit to Switzerland. This was the first such high-level meeting since the pandemic. The delegations discussed the deep and wide-ranging bilateral relations characterised by dialogue on around 30 issues, as well as a range of current international affairs.
Switzerland reaffirms solidarity with Ukraine
During the official visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Bern on Monday 15 January, Switzerland and Ukraine acknowledged the depth and dynamism of their bilateral relations. The Swiss government delegation, led by President Viola Amherd, underscored Switzerland's continued solidarity with Ukraine. Another key item on the agenda was the follow-up to the meeting of national security advisers hosted in Davos on Sunday within the framework of the Ukrainian peace formula. Switzerland expressed its willingness to organise a high-level summit.
Programme of members of the Federal Council attending the 2024 WEF Annual Meeting
The 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum is taking place in Davos next week. Six members of the Federal Council will be attending. President Viola Amherd will open the event together with WEF founder Prof. Klaus Schwab on Tuesday, 16 January.
Address by the president of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd at the New Year's reception for the diplomatic corps
Address by the president of the Swiss Confederation, Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), at the New Year's reception for the diplomatic corps, Wednesday, 10 January 2024.
The NCSC is now a federal office
The National Cybersecurity Centre will become a federal office on 1 January 2024. Media releases from the new federal office, which retains the name National Cyber Security Centre in English, can be subscribed from now on. All previous media releases from the NCSC will continue to be available on the Confederation's website.
Manuel Suter appointed Deputy Director of National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
The head of the DDPS, Federal Councillor Viola Amherd, has appointed Manuel Suter as Deputy Director of the NCSC as of 1 January 2024. The Federal Council was informed of the appointment at its meeting on 22 December.
Markus Mäder appointed State Secretary for Security Policy
At its meeting on 22 December, the Federal Council appointed Dr Markus Mäder as State Secretary for Security Policy. The current head of International Relations Defence will become head of the new State Secretariat for Security Policy (SEPOS) on 1 January. The head of the DDPS, Federal Councillor Viola Amherd, also informed the Federal Council that she has appointed Pälvi Pulli as Deputy State Secretary. For this role, the Federal Council has conferred the title of ambassador on Ms Pulli.
Project duration for the reconnaissance drone system (ADS 15) to be extended
In view of the technical problems in early 2023 and in particular the volatile situation in the Middle East, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse has agreed with the supplier of the ADS 15 (Elbit Systems Ltd) on an extension of the project by two years up to the end of 2026. As compensation, Elbit has to deliver an additional support package to Switzerland and extend the warranty period for the Swiss drones by two years. Moreover, Elbit has provided binding performance guarantees which are secured by extensive financial penalties in the event of non-fulfilment.
Switzerland steps up winter aid for Ukrainians
Facing the severe challenges of an unforgiving winter, millions in Ukraine find themselves in dire need of assistance. In response, Switzerland's federal government is supporting the beleaguered Ukrainian population this winter too with targeted action and an additional CHF 11.8 million in aid. This brings the total investment in winter relief measures up to around CHF 26 million.
Chair of the NATO Military Committee on official visit to Switzerland
On 4 and 5 December, Admiral Rob Bauer, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, will be paying an official visit to the Swiss Armed Forces. Discussions with the Chief of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Thomas Süssli, will focus on intensifying cooperation with NATO. A courtesy visit with the head of the DDPS, Federal Councillor Viola Amherd, is also on the agenda.
Information sharing and community building to boost cyber-resilience in International Geneva
On 30 November, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) held a 'Cyber Capacity and Community Building' event in Geneva in cooperation with the canton of Geneva and other partners. The event was aimed at boosting the cyber-resilience of international organisations and NGOs in International Geneva.
Federal Council approves 2024-2027 strategic objectives for RUAG International
During its meeting on 29 November 2023, the Federal Council approved the strategic objectives for RUAG International Holding AG for 2024 to 2027. Whereas the previous strategy period centred on the split of the RUAG group, the next few years will focus on the completion of the privatisation and, in particular, the sale of Beyond Gravity (space division) by the end of 2025.
Federal Council approves export of 25 main battle tanks to Germany
On 22 November, the Federal Council approved the application for the export of 25 Leopard 2 A4 main battle tanks to their original manufacturer, Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH in Germany. Germany has given assurances that the tanks will remain either in Germany, with NATO or with its EU partners in order to meet existing shortfalls.
Switzerland and France reaffirm and deepen relations during President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit
On 15 November, the entire Federal Council welcomed the French president, Emmanuel Macron, and his wife, Brigitte Macron, on a state visit. The military honours on the Bundesplatz were followed by official speeches and talks. Switzerland and France reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral relations and signed two memorandums of understanding. European policy and the current international situation were also key topics of the talks. The second day of the visit will be dedicated to cooperation in the areas of research, innovation and education, and to pan-European challenges.
Federal Administration also impacted by Concevis hack
The software company Concevis has fallen victim to a ransomware attack, causing all of its servers to be encrypted. As far as is currently known, the stolen data is believed to include older operational data from the Federal Administration. In-depth analyses are still ongoing.
Federal Council to welcome France’s President Emmanuel Macron on state visit
The Federal Council has invited President Emmanuel Macron of France and his wife, Brigitte Macron, on a state visit to Switzerland with a view to enhancing/ the long-standing diplomatic relations with France and advancing important bilateral topics. The state guest will be received on Wednesday, 15 November by the entire Federal Council with military honours on the Bundesplatz. This will be followed by official speeches in the lobby of the Federal Palace and political discussions in the Bernerhof. The second day of the visit will be devoted to cooperation in the areas of research, innovation and education, and pan-European challenges.
NCSC semi-annual report focuses on hacktivism
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) today published its latest semi-annual report. This looks at the main cyberincidents that occurred in Switzerland and abroad in the first half of 2023, with a special focus on hacktivism.
Cyber Start-up Challenge 2023: Start-up Ostorlab convinces the DDPS
The Cyber-Defence Campus of armasuisse Science and Technology has launched a challenge to promote relevant start-ups and innovative technologies in the cyber area. At the fourth edition of the Cyber Start-up Challenge, the company Ostorlab proved very impressive with its application scanner, which performs security analyses for mobile applications. In 2024, the company will be able to implement its solution in a feasibility study tailor-made for the Armed Forces and thus demonstrate it in a real environment for the DDPS.
Chief of the US National Guard Bureau visits Chief of the Swiss Armed Forces
Lieutenant General Thomas Süssli, Chief of the Swiss Armed Forces, will meet for a working visit with General Daniel R. Hokanson, Chief of the US National Guard Bureau, on 18 and 19 October. The talks will focus in particular on possibilities for enhancing training cooperation and on their different military service models. The two military chiefs will also attend the Axalp 2023 air display by the Swiss Air Force.
Federal Councillor Amherd to meet with European defence ministers in Brussels
The Framework Nations Concept (FNC), a multinational initiative for the joint development of defence capabilities, is celebrating its tenth anniversary. As initiator of the FNC, Germany has invited ministers to a meeting in Brussels to honour the cooperation programme. Federal Councillor Viola Amherd will attend the meeting with her European counterparts and exchange views on the current security situation, in particular the war in Ukraine and the attacks by Hamas in Israel.
Federal Council condemns terrorist attacks by Hamas in Israel and enhances Switzerland's capacity to act
At its meeting on 11 October 2023, the Federal Council discussed the recent outrageous attacks carried out by Hamas from the Gaza Strip against civilians in Israel. It condemns these terrorist acts in the strongest terms and calls for the immediate release of the hostages held by Hamas. In view of the situation, Switzerland must be able to act effectively and in a coordinated fashion. To this end, the Federal Council has decided to expand the task force set up by the FDFA, and convert it into a Federal Council task force. The Federal Council takes the stance that Hamas should be considered a terrorist organisation.
Switzerland prioritises humanitarian demining in Ukraine
On 29 September 2023, the Federal Council approved a CHF 100 million package to demine civilian and agricultural areas in Ukraine and aid the country's recovery. The funding will be provided in equal shares by the Department of Defence, Civil Protection, and Sport (DDPS) and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). In this way, Switzerland is offering its expertise to help tackle this enormous humanitarian challenge.
Partnership for Peace: Switzerland and NATO set cooperation targets for 2023 and 2024
Switzerland and NATO have defined the objectives of their cooperation for 2023 and 2024 in a non-legally binding Individually Tailored Partnership Programme (ITPP). The ITPP was concluded under the Partnership for Peace (PfP) programme and affirms the Federal Council’s intention to strengthen international cooperation in the area of security policy.
Swiss Air Force to train with U.S. Air Force in Switzerland
The Swiss Air Force and the U.S. Air Force will conduct a joint training exercise in Swiss airspace from 18–21 September 2023. The training is part of Switzerland's efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities through international cooperation.
Swiss aid operation in Greece concluded
The Swiss deployment to fight forest fires and support Greece after the floods came to an end on Sunday evening, 10 September 2023. In the initial phase, the team supported the Greek authorities in fire-fighting operations for five days with Swiss army helicopters. In the second phase, the team focused on the flooded areas of central Greece. Three Super Puma helicopters were used to transport people and distribute material. Today, Monday, the helicopters and their crews as well as the Swiss Humanitarian Aid rapid response team returned to Switzerland.
Greece: Swiss relief operation refocused on flooding
The Swiss operation to fight forest fires in Greece was completed on Thursday evening, 7 September 2023. The fires were brought under control. The Greek authorities have now appealed to Switzerland to adapt its relief operation to provide assistance to the areas affected by flooding. Switzerland is therefore continuing its humanitarian relief operation and, starting tomorrow, will be the first country to support the Greek authorities in tackling the flooding in the Thessaly region. Three Swiss Armed Forces helicopters have been deployed to transport people and supplies.
Wildfires in Greece: Switzerland dispatches army helicopters
Wildfires continue to rage across Greece. In response to requests for help from the Greek authorities, Switzerland is dispatching three army helicopters and personnel to reinforce fire-fighting operations on the ground.
Humanitarian demining: Remote-controlled demining machine ready for delivery to Ukraine
The DDPS is providing the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU) with a remote-controlled demining machine to safely and efficiently clear areas that have been contaminated with mines, cluster munitions and explosive remnants of war since the outbreak of the conflict. The machine was presented to the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) by the Swiss DIGGER Foundation on 29 August and is now ready for delivery to Ukraine by the Van for Life Foundation.
Xplain hack: Federal Council approves investigation order
At its meeting of 23 August 2023, the Federal Council ordered an administrative investigation into the events surrounding the data leak at Xplain AG and approved the investigation order. As instructed by the Federal Council, the Federal Department of Finance (FDF) will appoint an investigative body. It will mandate the Geneva-based law firm OBERSON ABELS SA for this role. In its capacity as an independent body, it is to investigate whether the Federal Administration adequately complied with its duties when selecting, instructing, supervising and working with Xplain AG. Furthermore, measures are to be identified to prevent a similar incident from occurring in the future.
ReFuel.ch awarded funding from SWEET programme
A decision has been made on the call for proposals “Sustainable Fuels and Platform Chemicals”: The reFuel.ch consortium led by the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) will receive project funding.
Swiss expertise bolsters humanitarian demining efforts in Ukraine
The Swiss Confederation is using Swiss expertise to support humanitarian demining in Ukraine. It supports the Ukrainian authorities' activities and contributes to the clearance of mines and unexploded ordnance through projects carried out by the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) and the Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD).
Federal Councillor Amherd signs memoranda of understanding to increase international cooperation
Federal Councillor Amherd, head of the DDPS, is hosting this year's D-A-CH meeting, for which Austria and Germany's ministers of defence, Klaudia Tanner and Boris Pistorius, have travelled to Bern. The main topics were the security situation in Europe, the effects of the war in Ukraine, trilateral cooperation and military peacebuilding. The three ministers of defence signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on their participation in the European Sky Shields Initiative (ESSI), which deals with procurement, and an agreement to promote research cooperation in the field of armaments. Ms Amherd and Mr Pistorius also expressed their intention to cooperate bilaterally in the area of strategic air transport.
Federal Councillor Viola Amherd receives Austrian Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius in Bern
The annual gathering of Swiss, Austrian and German defence ministers is taking place in Bern on 6 and 7 July. Federal Councillor Viola Amherd has invited Austrian Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius to discuss a range of issues including the impact of the war in Ukraine on European security policy, trilateral cooperation and military peace support. A memorandum of understanding to participate in the European Sky Shields Initiative is also expected to be signed.
Xplain hack: Federal Council commissions a policy strategy crisis team on data leaks
During its meeting on 28 June 2023, the Federal Council commissioned a policy strategy crisis team on data leaks. The aim of the cross-departmental crisis team is to coordinate the ongoing efforts to deal with the ransomware attack on Xplain, which has also affected Federal Administration data, and to propose related measures. In addition, the Federal Council ordered that a mandate be drawn up for an administrative investigation. Moreover, it decided to review existing contracts with federal IT service providers and to amend them where necessary in order to improve service providers' cybersecurity and allow the federal government to react swiftly in the event of a successful attack. Finally, it ordered an examination of measures to ensure that the essential services currently provided by Xplain for the police and the security and migration authorities can be guaranteed in any case.
« Switzerland's Security 2023 »: The Federal Intelligence Service publishes its latest situation report
Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine continues to have a lasting impact on national and international security policy. Switzerland’s security continues to be shaped in particular by the growing rivalry between major powers. The Federal Intelligence Service’s (FIS) abilities to anticipate, identify and assess in time threats and developments that are of strategic importance to Switzerland are crucial for taking preventive measures. The latest FIS situation report presents the main developments in intelligence over the past year.
Chief of the Armed Forces visits US for update on the implementation of Air2030
From 26 to 30 June, Chief of the Armed Forces Lieutenant General Thomas Süssli will be in the United States on a working visit. He will visit military and industrial sites to gain an insight into the assembly, operation and training activities with regard to the PATRIOT long-range surface-to-air missile defence systems and the new F-35A fighter jet. He will also meet with representatives of the United States Armed Forces.
Humanitarian demining: DDPS presents Ukraine with remote-controlled demining machine
The number of areas in Ukraine contaminated with mines and unexploded ordnance has risen sharply since the beginning of the war. To meet this challenge, the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) has presented the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU) with a demining machine from the Swiss Digger Foundation. The machine allows large areas contaminated with mines and other explosive ordnance to be cleared safely and efficiently. In addition, the Swiss Armed Forces have been training the Ukrainian civilian authorities in humanitarian demining since summer 2022.
Xplain hack: initial findings from data analyses indicate need for action
Following the discovery of the ransomware attack on Xplain, intensive investigations concerning the data affected have been under way in the Federal Administration. The data analysed to date also includes operational data from various authorities and organisations. How this data got onto the Xplain infrastructure is now being meticulously clarified.
DDoS attack on Federal Administration: various Federal Administration websites and applications unavailable
Several Federal Administration websites are/were inaccessible on Monday 12 June 2023, due to a DDoS attack on its systems. The Federal Administration's specialists quickly noticed the attack and are taking measures to restore accessibility to the websites and applications as quickly as possible.
Federal Administration also impacted by Xplain hack
Based on the information currently available, it appears that operational data of the Federal Administration could also be affected by the ransomware attack on the IT company Xplain, which resulted in some of the stolen data being published on the darknet. In-depth analyses are still ongoing.
Cyber-Defence Campus launches Cyber Startup Challenge 2023
The Cyber-Defence Campus of the DDPS is organising another Cyber Startup Challenge. This year's theme is «Smartphone Security» and the aim is to find innovative solutions for the security of smartphone applications to mitigate their potential threats. The winner will receive a contract for a proof of concept and can demonstrate their solution in a real DDPS environment. The closing date for entries is 31 August 2023.
Swiss Air Force to participate in multinational helicopter exercise in Portugal
From 7 to 21 June, members of the Swiss Air Force will train with three Super Puma and Cougar helicopters in Beja, Portugal. The purpose of the multinational Hotblade Helicopter Exercise is to compare and develop tactical capabilities with other countries and improve interoperability. Switzerland is participating in the exercise for the first time.
New website “Military brands” shows armasuisse’s implementation of the military brand strategy
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is responsible for the protection, defence and licensing of the military brands, in particular “Swiss Army”, “Swiss Military” and “Swiss Air Force”. The new website “Military brands” shows the strategy and implementation that is being pursued for the management and protection of the military brands. The aim of the transparent information policy is to make the public aware of the lawful use of the military brands.
Swiss Air Force to participate in international air defence exercise in Sweden
From 29 May to 10 June, members of the Swiss Air Force will train with up to six F/A-18 fighter jets in Kallax, Sweden. The purpose of the international Arctic Challenge Exercise is to compare and develop one’s own capabilities with other countries and improve interoperability.
75 years of UN peacebuilding: Federal Councillor Amherd pays working visit to New York
The head of the DDPS, Federal Councillor Viola Amherd will mark the International Day of UN Peacekeepers and Switzerland assuming the chair of the UN Security Council by paying a working visit to the UN in New York on 25 and 26 May. Ms Amherd will chair a meeting of the Security Council on peace and security in Africa. She will also hold bilateral talks with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other UN representatives, and attend events organised by the UN to mark the 75th anniversary of the oldest UN peacekeeping mission (UNTSO).
Florian Schütz appointed director of the new Federal Office for Cyber Security
At its meeting on 24 May, the Federal Council appointed Florian Schütz, currently the Federal Cyber Security Delegate and head of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), as director of the new Federal Office for Cyber Security as of 1 January 2024.
Federal Council supports decommissioning of 25 main battle tanks
The Federal Council supports the proposal of the National Council Security Policy Committee to officially decommission 25 Leopard 2 main battle tanks. At its meeting on 24 May, the Federal Council authorised the head of the DDPS, Viola Amherd, to support the proposal in the parliamentary discussion on the 2023 Armed Forces Dispatch.
Reconnaissance technologies: armasuisse is organising an international research experiment in Walenstadt in cooperation with NATO
From 13 – 20 May, armasuisse carried out a joint research measurement experiment in Switzerland with the research organisation of NATO for the first time. The focus was on detecting hazards in built-up areas with new acoustic and seismic means.
Flight operation for the reconnaissance drone system (ADS 15) resumed
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse has rectified the malfunction with a drone from the reconnaissance drone system (ADS 15) and clarified the cause. Flight operation at the Emmen Military Air Base has thus been resumed.
Delivery of air-to-air guided missiles AIM-120, C-7
armasuisse has accepted a further delivery of the radar-guided missiles model AIM-120 C-7 approved with the 2017 armament programme. The transport took place today on board an US Air Force Lockheed C-130J. The aircraft landed at the Payerne Military Air Base in the morning.
NCSC semi-annual report focuses on cybersecurity in SMEs
The National Cybersecurity Centre's (NCSC) second semi-annual report deals with the most important cyberincidents of the second half of 2022 in Switzerland and internationally. It focuses on the most important issues surrounding cybersecurity in SMEs.
Vice president of the Federal Council to pay visit to the Pope and Swiss Guard at the Vatican
Viola Amherd, Vice president of the Federal Council, will attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new recruits to the Pontifical Swiss Guard at the Vatican on 6 May. She will also hold talks with Pope Francis and Christoph Graf, Commander of the Guard.
New licensee for the “Swiss Military” brand
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse has signed a contract for the “Swiss Military” brand with the company Kambly SA as a new licensee. The company Kambly SA produces the “Military Biscuit” supplied to the Swiss Armed Forces and will now market this in a new packaging for civilian trade under the brand “Swiss Military”. The revenue from the royalties will flow into the Federal Treasury. This means armasuisse can continue to implement the commercialisation of the military brands as required by Parliament since 2012.
Successful cooperation between the DDPS and the Swiss financial sector to protect privacy
The Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) has concluded a joint pilot project with the Swiss National Bank, SIX and Zurich Cantonal bank to strengthen the resilience of critical Swiss infrastructure in the area of cyber defence. The initiative aims to enable security teams in the financial sector to have access to cyber defence capacities of the Confederation and to improve the general security situation through increased collaboration. Conventional data collaboration challenges are overcome by the use of confidential computing and data clean rooms, a combination of new encryption and data protection technologies.
Federal Councillor Viola Amherd to sign a declaration of intent on security policy during London visit
Federal Councillor Viola Amherd will meet with her UK counterpart, Secretary of State for Defence Ben Wallace, in London on 20 April. Talks are to focus on security in Europe and various ways that Switzerland and the UK can increase cooperation in this area. Ms Amherd, head of the DDPS, will also use the occasion to sign a declaration of intent to formalise the countries’ cooperation on security.
Federal Council and cantons define new national cyberstrategy
The new national cyberstrategy (NCS) was approved by the Federal Council during its meeting on 5 April 2023 and by the cantons during today's plenary session of the CCJPD. The strategy sets out the objectives and measures with which the federal government and the cantons, together with the business community and universities, intend to counter cyberthreats. A steering committee will be established to plan and coordinate the implementation of the strategy, and will also refine it. Its role is to be expanded and its independence increased.
Swiss National Armaments Director to meet with counterpart from Finland
On 12 and 13 April 2023, National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger will receive his counterpart from Finland, Tarja Jaakola, for a bilateral meeting. Talks will focus on the procurement strategy among other topics. The meeting will take place in Thun and Bern.
Model selected for new anti-tank guided missile
armasuisse has selected the model for a new anti-tank missile system with SPIKE LR2 from Eurospike. It is planned to propose procurement of the weapons systems to Parliament in the 2024 Armed Forces Dispatch.
FDFA and DDPS launch Action Plan on Mine Action 2023–2026
Switzerland is continuing its long-standing commitment to humanitarian mine action. In the new action plan, the FDFA and DDPS jointly set out three fields of action with goals and measures for the years 2023–26. The plan focuses not only on implementing the relevant conventions and support for the clearance of contaminated areas, but also on innovative approaches. In addition, Switzerland will provide targeted support to Ukraine in the coming years.
Federal Council improves crisis management structures
The Federal Council aims to be better prepared for crisis situations and have more efficient mechanisms in place for dealing with them. At its meeting on 29 March, it decided, based on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, to strengthen the organisation of the Federal Administration so it is better equipped for future crises. In the event of complex crises, the Federal Council will be able to deploy crisis units at both a strategic and operational level. The Federal Council remains the supreme governing authority. In addition, a Standing Core Unit will provide crisis management support to the departmental staff offices. The Federal Council has tasked the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport DDPS and the Federal Chancellery FCh with drawing up core legislation on the new crisis management structure by the end of 2023.
First relocation of the reconnaissance drone to the Payerne military airfield
The reconnaissance drone system 15 was relocated to the Payerne military airfield last week. This week, armasuisse is testing the infrastructures and processes with the drone together with the Air Force in Payerne.
Visit to the Singapore Defence Technology Summit
From 22 to 24 March 2023, a delegation from the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse led by Deputy National Armaments Director Thomas Rothacher will attend the «Singapore Defence Technology Summit». The focus will be on the international exchange of trends and developments in the defence and security sectors.
Earthquake impacts in Switzerland systematically determined for the first time
Until now, little has been known about the effects that earthquakes in Switzerland could have on people and buildings. At the request of the Federal Council, the Swiss Seismological Service (SED) at ETH Zurich together with the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), the Federal Office for Civil Protection (FOCP), EPFL and other partners from industry have developed the first publicly accessible and – and, to date, most reliable – earthquake risk model for Switzerland. The model provides a new tool enabling the public, authorities and businesses to prepare for earthquakes and to better cope with the next damaging quake.
Vice President Amherd and Federal Councillor Cassis at the 2023 Munich Security Conference
From 17 to 19 February, Vice President of the Federal Council Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will be attending the Munich Security Conference. During this working visit, the heads of the DDPS and the FDFA will exchange views with their counterparts on security and foreign policy issues.
Earthquakes in Turkey and Syria: Swiss Rescue ends mission – Switzerland sends more specialists and material to earthquake-hit region
After almost a week of sustained operations, Swiss Rescue is ending its search for survivors of the devastating earthquake in Turkey. The team and the search dogs are returning to Switzerland on Monday 13 February 2023. The second phase of the emergency aid operations was already launched on Saturday 11 February 2023, with the arrival of the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit's rapid response team in Hatay Province, Turkey. In addition, an initial aid delivery with 300 winter-proof family tents is on its way to the earthquake-hit region.
Head of the Armed Forces to welcome NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe on a working visit
On 9 February 2023, General Christopher G. Cavoli, the NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), paid a working visit to the Swiss Armed Forces. Talks held with Armed Forces chief Lieutenant General Thomas Süssli focused on intensifying cooperation with NATO. There was also a meeting with the Head of Security Policy in DDPS, Ambassador Pälvi Pulli.
Fresh reinforcements leave for devastated areas of Turkey and Syria
The earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have caused massive damage, leaving thousands of people in the two countries dead or injured, with the number of casualties still expected to rise. In response to an appeal from the Turkish authorities, Swiss Humanitarian Aid immediately sent a Swiss Rescue team to the affected regions last Monday. A second phase of the emergency response is being launched today.
Earthquake hits Turkish–Syrian border region: Swiss Rescue helps search for survivors
On 6 February 2023, a number of earthquakes occurred along the Turkish–Syrian border. Swiss Humanitarian Aid has sent around 80 Swiss Rescue experts and eight search dogs to the Gaziantep area in southern Turkey. The rescue team also includes disaster response specialists from the Swiss Armed Forces. The rescue effort is in response to an appeal for help from the Turkish authorities. The Swiss authorities are in the process of clarifying what assistance is needed by people in Syria affected by the earthquakes.
Programme of members of the Federal Council attending the WEF Annual Meeting 2023
The annual meeting of the World Economic Forum is once again taking place at its traditional date in January after recent editions were cancelled due to the pandemic in 2021 and postponed to the spring last year. President Alain Berset will open the event together with WEF founder Prof. Klaus Schwab, on Tuesday, 17 January.
Switzerland takes part in discussions at OECD Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting
The OECD Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting was held on the Spanish island of Gran Canaria on 14 and 15 December. At the event, government officials from fifty different countries, including Switzerland, met with business leaders and civil society representatives to discuss topics such as artificial intelligence, data governance, the future of connectivity, cybersecurity and human rights in the digital age. The gathering concluded with the adoption of two ministerial declarations and a series of recommendations on cybersecurity.
Security robotics for Switzerland
ETH Zurich and armasuisse Science and Technology are launching a joint security robotics programme. Over the course of five years, armasuisse will be investing 2.5 million Swiss francs in selected research projects.
NCSC to become federal office in DDPS
Based on the growing significance of cybersecurity and the good work done in recent years to establish the National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) in the Federal Department of Finance (FDF), the NCSC is to become a federal office. During its meeting on 2 December 2022, the Federal Council decided that the new federal office will be located in the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS). It instructed the DDPS, in collaboration with the FDF, to define the structures of the new federal office by end-March 2023.
Federal Council submits dispatch on mandatory reporting of cyberattacks on critical infrastructures to Parliament
The Federal Council wants to introduce a reporting duty for cyberattacks on critical infrastructures. To this end, during its meeting on 2 December 2022, it adopted the dispatch on amending the Information Security Act and submitted it to Parliament. The proposal creates the legal basis for the reporting obligation for the operators of critical infrastructures and defines the tasks of the National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC), which is intended to be the central reporting office for cyberattacks.
State visit by President Mattarella underlines importance of Swiss-Italian relations
The state visit of Italian President Sergio Mattarella to Switzerland underlines the close relations between the two countries. President Mattarella was welcomed to Bern by the full Federal Council on Tuesday, 29 November. In his welcome speech, President Ignazio Cassis paid tribute to the close ties between Switzerland and Italy and their intensive contacts, which reinforce the italianità already present in Switzerland's DNA. Besides bilateral relations, the official talks focused on European policy, the security situation on the continent and multilateral issues.
Study on offset transactions: Higher research intensity, higher export volume and higher export dynamics
Companies which have the chance to exercise offset transactions for arms procurement exhibit a higher research intensity, a higher export volume and higher export dynamics than the relevant comparable sectors in each case. This is shown by an independent study from BAK Economics. Between 2018 and 2021, around one billion Francs flowed into Swiss industry thanks to these transactions. The study also shows which data can be used to measure the achievement of offset goals and transform it into periodic monitoring. Based on these results, armasuisse is continuing to expand the digitalisation of its working tools and is adjusting its processes.
NCSC semi-annual report with focus on cyberspace and armed conflicts
The latest semi-annual report of the National Cybersecurity Centre NCSC deals with the most important cyberincidents of the first half of 2022 both in Switzerland and internationally. The focus topic concerns cyberspace and armed conflicts.
Federal Cybersecurity Delegate represented Switzerland at International Counter Ransomware Initiative Summit in Washington
On 31 October and 1 November 2022, the White House brought together 36 countries and the EU for the Second International Counter Ransomware Initiative Summit in Washington. Florian Schütz, the Federal Cybersecurity Delegate, put forward Switzerland's position in the five working groups. He also met with Chris Inglis, the US National Cyber Director, for a bilateral exchange.
«Cyber Startup Challenge 2022»: Startup ONEKEY convinces the DDPS
The DDPS Cyber-Defence Campus has launched a challenge to foster relevant startups and innovative technologies in the cyber area. In this third issue of the Cyber Startup Challenge, the startup company ONEKEY was able to convince the jury of its innovative solution in the area of automated security of Internet of Things devices. In 2023, the company will be able to implement its solution in a proof of concept tailored for the Armed Forces and thus demonstrate it in a real environment.
Bug bounty programme carried out for the Confederation's eIAM central access system
The Federal Administration carried out a bug bounty programme for eIAM, the Confederation’s central access system, from 30 August to 11 October. System security was further strengthened through a review by ethical hackers.
Reconnaissance technologies: armasuisse is organising an international research event in Interlaken in cooperation with NATO
More than 130 experts as well as NATO research organisation delegates from 22 countries met in Interlaken between 10 and 14 October. The focus was on a specialist event for satellite observation as well as a panel meeting on modern sensors and electronics technology. The DDPS, represented by armasuisse Science and Technology (S+T), co-organised the event and took part in both the research activities as part of the Partnership for Peace programme (PfP).
Ukraine: Switzerland delivers fire-fighting and rubble removal equipment worth over CHF 5 million
Switzerland is making a new delivery of material to Ukraine. At the request of the Ukrainian authorities, it will provide equipment to fight fires, clean contaminated water and remove debris and rubble. The Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and the city of Basel donated the equipment, worth CHF 5.2 million in total. The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), part of the FDFA, will finance and organise the transport of the goods. The first two lorries left Switzerland today.
Meeting of the research directors from the DACH countries
On 5 and 6 October, a delegation of research directors from Germany, Austria and Switzerland (DACH countries) will meet in Thun. The focus will be on the mutual exchange of topics such as drone defence and energy. The meeting will be conducted by armasuisse Science and Technology.
Fifth call for proposals launched for SWEET funding programme
The Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) is launching a new call for proposals under the SWEET funding programme on the topic 'Sustainable Fuels and Platform Chemicals'. Sustainable liquid and gaseous fuels will make an important contribution to achieving the goals of the energy strategy and long-term climate strategy. How and where can these be produced? Answers to these and other questions are to come from the new call for proposals, in which the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) and armasuisse are also participating. The application deadline is 9 December 2022.
Air2030: Procurement contract signed for the F-35A
National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger and the Swiss F-35A Program Manager Darko Savic signed the procurement contract on 19 September 2022 at armasuisse in Bern. With this, the procurement of 36 F-35A is contractually agreed. The aircraft will be delivered between 2027 and 2030 and will replace the current fleet of F/A-18 Hornets and F-5 Tigers.
‘One of the all-time greats’ – sports minister Viola Amherd pays tribute to Roger Federer’s extraordinary career
As Roger Federer announces his retirement, Swiss sports minister Viola Amherd pays tribute to the career of this extraordinary athlete.
Launch of the national cybersecurity awareness campaign
Cyberattacks via email and messenger services are on the rise. They can be detected by critically examining messages, thereby making it possible to avoid major financial losses and personal suffering. To promote public awareness, the National Cybersecurity Centre NCSC and Swiss Crime Prevention SCP, together with the cantonal and city police forces, are launching the S-U-P-E-R.ch national cybersecurity awareness campaign on 5 September 2022.
War in Ukraine – Switzerland delivers an additional 100 tonnes of humanitarian supplies
Switzerland is continuing to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine. In the past few days, the FDFA has organised several convoys carrying 100 tonnes of supplies, including medical and sanitation equipment. These operations are part of the support efforts undertaken by the federal government since the start of the war. In cooperation with the DDPS, the FDFA has delivered over 5,300 tonnes of emergency aid to Ukraine and neighbouring countries since March.
Federal Administration procures platform for bug bounty programmes
In order to increase the cybersecurity of the IT infrastructure and reduce cyber-risks effectively and cost-efficiently, the Confederation is procuring a centralised platform for bug bounty programmes. Under the auspices of the National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) and in collaboration with Bug Bounty Switzerland SA, ethical hackers will search the Federal Administration's IT systems for vulnerabilities.
Switzerland hosts third NATO Partnerships 360 Symposium at Maison de la Paix in Geneva
The Partnerships 360 Symposium, which takes place from 11 to 13 July, brings together allied and partner nations for a free exchange of ideas on the future evolution of NATO's partnerships policy. The symposium will be attended by 250 civilian and military representatives from NATO member and partner states. This is the first time that the symposium is being hosted by a NATO partner nation.
Women’s national football team embarks on Euro adventure with support from Magglingen
Switzerland’s women’s football team has qualified for the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 in England on 6–31 July 2022. The Swiss Federal Institute of Sport Magglingen (SFISM) assisted the team with its preparations by conducting performance diagnostics.
125th anniversary of First Zionist Congress on 29 August in Basel: military support service and airspace restriction
In its meeting of 29 June, the Federal Council approved temporarily restricting airspace during the celebrations to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the First Zionist Congress in Basel. The Air Force will provide air policing services and additional airspace surveillance for the event. The military will also set up a support service with up to 700 soldiers to complement civilian authorities’ security measures.
Cyber Defence Campus launches 2022 Cyber Startup Challenge
The Cyber-Defence Campus of the DDPS is again holding a Cyber Startup Challenge this year. With the theme “Network detection and security of Internet of Things devices”, innovative solutions are being sought in the area of automatic network search and security check. The winner will receive an order for a proof of concept and demonstrate their solution in a real DDPS environment. The registration deadline is 31 August 2022.
Switzerland's Security 2022: The Federal Intelligence Service publishes its latest situation report
Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine is expected to have a lasting impact on national and international security policy. Switzerland’s security continues to be shaped in particular by the growing rivalry between major powers. The Federal Intelligence Service’s (FIS) abilities to anticipate, identify and assess in time threats and developments that are of strategic importance to Switzerland are crucial for taking preventive measures. The latest FIS situation report presents the main developments in intelligence over the past year.
Path to reconstruction passes through Lugano – President Cassis presents plans for URC2022
On Monday, 20 June, at their traditional meeting, President Ignazio Cassis and the government of Ticino held discussions on preparations for the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2022). High-level delegations from around 40 countries and 20 international organisations have been invited to attend the conference, which will take place in Lugano on 4 and 5 July. President Cassis briefed the media today in Bellinzona together with Ticino Cantonal Councillor Norman Gobbi, Police Commander Matteo Cocchi and representatives from the armed forces and fedpol.
Successful first flight of the reconnaissance drone in Switzerland
This morning, at shortly after 07:00, the new reconnaissance drone for the Swiss Armed Forces in Emmen completed its first flight. With this successful test flight, the reconnaissance drone system 15 (ADS 15) reaches another important milestone.
Visit by the National Armaments Director to the Eurosatory
National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger will visit the weaponry industry trade fair Eurosatory in Paris from 13 to 15 June 2022. In addition to various company visits at the fair, he will meet with colleagues from France and Israel.
Ukraine Recovery Conference in Lugano: comprehensive security measures
The Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC 2022) being held in Lugano on 4 and 5 July 2022 will focus on the reconstruction of Ukraine. The conference is taking place against the backdrop of heightened international tensions and comprehensive security measures are therefore needed. At its meeting on 10 June 2022, the Federal Council decided that the conference qualifies as an exceptional event. This means that the federal government will contribute to the security costs incurred by the canton of Ticino. The Federal Council also decided to deploy up to 1,600 military personnel on an ancillary basis, with air policing provided by the Swiss Armed Forces.
Decisions on materiel from previous and current Armed Forces inventory
Germany and Poland have submitted requests to the DDPS for the transfer of material from previous or current armed forces inventory. The DDPS has decided how to respond to the requests. Germany can freely dispose of Leopard 2 tanks which were sold back to Rheinmetall twelve years ago, as there are no longer any valid restrictions. No Leopard 2 tanks withdrawn from service will be transferred to Poland as this would require them to first be decommissioned which is subject to a decision by parliament. In addition, Switzerland will forgo part of an initial consignment of anti-tank weapons that it had ordered from the Swedish company Saab AB and give precedence to the United Kingdom. The majority of the systems ordered will be delivered to Switzerland by the beginning of 2023 as planned.
Programme of members of the Federal Council attending the WEF Annual Meeting 2022
Following the cancellation of last year’s gathering and a postponement owing to the pandemic, the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) is being held in spring for the first time. President Ignazio Cassis will open the Annual Meeting together with WEF founder Prof. Klaus Schwab on Monday, 23 May.
National Cybersecurity Centre to become federal office
During its meeting on 18 May 2022, the Federal Council decided to turn the National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) into a federal office, and instructed the Federal Department of Finance FDF to prepare proposals by the end of 2022 regarding how the office should be structured and which department it should be part of.
Implementation of national cyberstrategy proceeding successfully and to be strengthened further
On 18 May 2022, the Federal Council took note of the report on the effectiveness assessment of the "2018-2022 national strategy for the protection of Switzerland against cyber-risks (NCS)" and decided to create a further 25 positions in the area of protection against cyber-risks.
Federal Councillor Viola Amherd to pay working visit to the USA
On Monday, 9 May, Federal Councillor Viola Amherd will travel to Washington DC for a working visit. Ms Amherd will attend the Munich Leaders Meeting, organised by the Munich Security Conference. The rest of the visit will focus on bilateral relations with the USA. Ms Amherd will meet Deputy Secretary of Defence Kathleen H. Hicks for bilateral talks and pay a visit to the company Lockheed Martin.
NCSC semi-annual report with focus on supply chain attacks
The NCSC's latest semi-annual report deals with the most important cyberincidents of the second half of 2021 both in Switzerland and internationally. The focus topic concerns attacks on IT product supply chains.
Association founded to increase the cyber-resilience of the Swiss financial centre
On 5 April 2022, the Swiss Financial Sector Cybersecurity Centre (Swiss FS-CSC) association was founded in Zurich in the presence of Federal Councillor Ueli Maurer. The association aims to strengthen cooperation between financial institutions and authorities in the fight against cyberthreats, and to increase the resilience of the financial sector. The president of the association is August Benz, Deputy CEO of the Swiss Bankers Association.
New licensee for brands “Swiss Military” and “Swiss Air Force”
armasuisse has contracted the company swiss brands AG as a new licensee for the two brands “Swiss Military” and “Swiss Air Force”. The company has experience in the use of military brands. The revenue from the royalties will flow into the Federal Treasury. This means that armasuisse can continue to implement the commercialisation of the military brands required by the Parliament.
Air2030: Swiss F-35A from Italian production
Switzerland is having at least 24 of a total of 36 F-35A fighter aircraft manufactured in Cameri, Italy. For a further four aircraft, clarifications are underway as to whether their final assembly can take place in Switzerland instead as part of an offset project. The first eight aircraft will be manufactured in the USA because they will be used there on site for the initial training of the Swiss pilots. The agreed price and delivery schedule will remain unchanged and the aircraft will be delivered from 2027.
"Swiss neutrality" – the new brochure published by the FDFA and the DDPS (d/fr)
Neutrality is a successful instrument of Swiss foreign and security policy. It has strong support among the Swiss population. Switzerland's neutrality is self-chosen, permanent, internationally recognised and armed. In a new brochure, the FDFA and the DDPS explain what Swiss neutrality entails and how it is implemented.
Switzerland sends humanitarian aid to Ukrainian population
Switzerland is delivering around 25 tonnes of relief supplies to the Ukrainian population. Swiss Humanitarian Aid will transport urgently needed materials and medical supplies from the Armed Forces Pharmacy to Poland today and tomorrow. The aid supplies are part of Switzerland's overall support package worth around CHF 8 million.
Switzerland adopts EU sanctions against Russia
In view of Russia’s continuing military intervention in Ukraine, the Federal Council took the decision on 28 February to adopt the packages of sanctions imposed by the EU on 23 and 25 February. The assets of the individuals and companies listed are frozen with immediate effect; the financial sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov are also to be implemented with immediate effect. Switzerland reaffirms its solidarity with Ukraine and its people; it will be delivering relief supplies for people who have fled to Poland.
Air2030: National Armaments Director discusses possible production of Swiss F-35A in Italy
A delegation from armasuisse led by National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger is visiting the Italian National Armaments Director today in Cameri, Italy for bilateral talks in connection with the Air2030 programme. They will be discussing whether a part of the future Swiss F-3A fighter jets can be manufactured in Italy.
Air2030: National Armaments Director meets manufacturer of the F-35A in the USA
A delegation from armasuisse led by National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger is meeting representatives from Lockheed Martin today in Fort Worth, Texas. The talks will revolve around the planned procurement of the fighter aircraft F-35A from this manufacturer for the Swiss Armed Forces.
Initiation of consultation on introduction of cyberattack reporting obligation
During its meeting on 12 January 2022, the Federal Council initiated the consultation on the proposed introduction of a reporting obligation for cyberattacks on critical infrastructures. The proposal creates the legal basis for the reporting obligation and defines the tasks of the National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC), which is intended to be the central reporting office for cyberattacks. The consultation will last until 14 April 2022.
Cyber-Defence Campus: International cooperation with the German Federal Office for Information Security
armasuisse’s Cyber-Defence (CYD) Campus is working together for the first time with the German Federal Office for Information Security (Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik, BSI) in the area of cyber security. The cooperation includes the provision of open-source software applications, which enable the creation and management of security advisories in a format usable by machines. The aim is to make the exchange of information on security vulnerabilities easier and so helping to improve the cyber security.
Further development of military peace support: Implementation status
The Federal Council wants to further develop Switzerland's participation in military peace support and place even greater emphasis on high-quality contributions. The DDPS drew up a report containing concrete recommendations on this issue in November 2020, and the Federal Council instructed the DDPS and the FDFA to implement these recommendations. At its meeting on 17 December 2021, the Federal Council took note of the progress made so far and instructed the DDPS to submit by October 2022 a bill for consultation regarding partial revision of the Armed Forces Act.
Coronavirus: Federal Council introduces tighter measures
Stricter measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus will apply throughout Switzerland from Monday, 20 December. Only people who have been vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19 will be able to go inside restaurants, cultural, sporting and leisure venues and attend indoor events (2G). The move is intended to reduce the risk of unimmunised people from becoming infected as they are also more likely to pass on the virus and become seriously ill. To provide additional protection, masks must also be worn in these settings and food and drink may only be consumed while seated. In settings where masks cannot be worn, such as brass band practice, or where it is not possible to eat or drink while seated, such as at bars and discos, admission will be limited to vaccinated or recovered persons who also present a negative test result (2G+). People who within the last four months have been fully vaccinated, received a booster or recovered from COVID-19 do not have to take a further test. A requirement to work from home has been re-introduced. Private gatherings are limited to 10 people if one person from the age of 16 is present who is unvaccinated or has not previously had COVID-19. These are the decisions taken by the Federal Council at its meeting on 17 December. The Federal Council also settled the question of how test costs are to be covered and the procurement of additional vaccine doses.
Air2030: Contracts in place for F-35A and Patriot
armasuisse has agreed contract terms with the US government for the purchase of the F-35A fighter aircraft and the Patriot longer-range ground-based air defence system. Assuming an exchange rate of CHF 0.95 to the US dollar, this results in guarantee credits of CHF 6.035 billion for the aircraft and CHF 1.987 billion for the air defence system. This is less than the anticipated financial cost. The planning decision on procuring the fighter aircraft, which has been approved by Swiss voters, allows for a financial cost of CHF 6.3 billion, taking into account inflation forecasts up to 2031 and anticipated payments.
Federal Council adopts security policy objectives
The world has become less safe in recent years. There is a renewed focus on power politics, and growing international tensions and instability. In its new security policy report, the Federal Council analyses these developments and sets out how it intends to address this harsher environment. The report, which was adopted by the Federal Council on 24 November 2021, sets out nine objectives for Switzerland's security policy in the coming years, including measures to enhance protection against cyber threats and disinformation, and strengthen resilience, security of supply and international cooperation.
Swiss Rescue again deemed fit for lifesaving deployments
Swiss Rescue has retained its spot among the world's best search and rescue teams. Around 80 members of Swiss Rescue and 8 search and rescue dogs were assessed and reclassified by an international evaluation panel between 22 and 24 November 2021 in the Geneva area.
Florian Schütz appointed Chair of the OECD Working Party on Security in the Digital Economy
On 23 November 2021, the Working Party on Security in the Digital Economy of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) appointed Florian Schütz, the Federal Cybersecurity Delegate, as its new Chair. Mr Schütz will formally start in this position as of 1 January 2022.
Bilateral armaments meeting with Norway and Finland
From 17 to 18 November 2021 National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger, accompanied by a delegation, will visit first Norwegian National Armaments Director Morten Tiller and then Finnish National Armaments Director Raimo Jyväsjärvi. Both bilateral meetings will focus on talks about current procurement projects. In Norway, discussions will concentrate specifically on the experiences gained with the procurement and deployment of the F-35A.
Implementing ethical principles in sport: greater protection for athletes
Ethical principles are to become more firmly anchored and strictly enforced in Switzerland’s sport system. They will be made legally binding, which will allow penalties to be imposed for violations. In addition, coordination between authorities and private associations will be subject to stricter rules, particularly to ensure closer supervision by the Confederation. Further measures include setting up an independent central reporting office, and increasing the involvement and raising the awareness of parents of children involved in competitive sports. This set of measures, the result of the investigation Federal Councillor Viola Amherd commissioned following incidents in rhythmic gymnastics, aims to protect athletes under the age of 18 in particular.
Address at the Mont Terri Rock Laboratory: 25 years of innovation and research
Address by Federal Councillor Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) to mark the 25th anniversary of the Mont Terri Rock Laboratory, St. Ursanne, Thursday, 4 November.
Mont Terri Rock Laboratory in the canton of Jura celebrates 25 years of research in the public interest
The underground laboratory, located at Mont Terri in St-Ursanne (JU), has been carrying out research into argillaceous rock since 1996. The experiments address the disposal of radioactive waste and the storage of CO2 in deep geological repositories. Today, 4th November 2021, Viola Amherd, Federal Councillor, celebrates this anniversary together with the laboratory’s partners.
Second NCSC semi-annual report focuses on vulnerabilities
The National Cybersecurity Centre's (NCSC) second semi-annual report deals with the most important cyberincidents of the first half of 2021 in Switzerland and internationally. The main topic is dedicated to vulnerabilities in IT systems that can be exploited to carry out cyberattacks.
Major General Patrick Gauchat appointed head of United Nations peacekeeping mission UNTSO
On 28 October 2021 UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment of Major General Patrick Gauchat as Head of Mission of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) in the Middle East. This is the first time a Swiss officer has been given command of a UN peacekeeping mission. The Federal Council was informed of his planned deployment at its meeting on 24 September.
Air2030: Head of DDPS and Chief of the Armed Forces receive US General for talks on procurement of the F-35A
Federal Councillor Viola Amherd, Head of DDPS, met Lieutenant General Eric T. Fick, F-35 Program Executive Officer, during his visit in Bern on October 28, 2021. Lieutenant General Fick also met Lieutenant General Thomas Süssli, Chief of the Armed Forces, at the airforce base in Emmen. During his visit, he discussed the planned procurement of 36 F-35A combat aircraft with members of the program team Air2030.
National Armaments Director takes part in NATO Conference of National Armaments Directors
National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger takes part in the NATO Conference of National Armaments Directors with partner countries in Brussels on 26 October 2021. Discussions focus on the possibilities for multilateral cooperation projects in the armaments sector and bilateral meetings with colleagues. In addition, a working visit to the European Defence Agency is on the agenda.
Cyberangriff auf EasyGov
Kriminellen Hackern ist es mutmasslich gelungen, eine Liste mit Namen von bis zu 130’000 Unternehmen zu entwenden, welche über die Plattform EasyGov im Jahr 2020 einen Covid-19-Kredit beantragt hatten. Weitere Daten ausser den Firmennamen wurden nach heutiger Erkenntnis nicht gestohlen. Das SECO, als Betreiberin von Easy-Gov, hat Sofortmassnahmen ergriffen und eine Untersuchung eingeleitet.
Public energy role models commit to ambitious climate protection goals
The Civil Federal Administration, the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and 13 other participants in the Exemplary Energy and Climate Initiative are leading the way: by 2030, they will increase energy efficiency and expand renewable energies. Federal Councillors Simonetta Sommaruga (DETEC) and Viola Amherd (DDPS) today joined the other participants to launch the second phase of the Exemplary Energy and Climate Initiative at the Thun military training ground. The initiative contributes to implementing the Energy Strategy 2050 and achieving the net zero climate target by 2050. A new aspect in the second phase is climate-compatible financing, because today's investment decisions will in part determine future levels of greenhouse gas emissions.
Swiss researchers win robotics contest funded by US research agency DARPA
The final of the three-year Subterranean Challenge robotics competition funded by DARPA (the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency of the United States Department of Defense) took place in the USA from 21 to 24 September 2021. An international team with representatives from Switzerland and with participation of armasuisse Science and Technology (S+T) won the fiercely contested competition.
«Cyber Startup Challenge 2021»: Startup company Decentriq convinces jury
The DDPS Cyber Defence Campus has launched a challenge to find startups and innovative technologies in the cyber area. In the second edition of the challenge, the startup company Decentriq was able to impress the jury with its innovative solution in the area of confidential data exchange.
Air2030: “New Fighter Aircraft” project awarded bronze in international project management competition
armasuisse achieves with its project "New Fighter Aircraft" the third place in the international IPMA Global Project Excellence Awards competition. The three finalists in the large-scale project category come from Russia, Algeria and Switzerland. The final took place on 22 September 2021 in St. Petersburg. The competition is organized by the globally recognised project management association IPMA (International Project Management Association).
Third call for proposals for SWEET funding programme launched
The Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) has launched the third call for proposals under the SWEET (Swiss Energy Research for the Energy Transition) funding programme. The guiding theme of the call, which has a total budget of CHF 10 million, is 'Critical Infrastructures, Climate Change, and Resilience of the Swiss Energy System'. This call is a joint undertaking with the National Centre for Climate Services (NCCS). The deadline for applications is 3 December 2021.
Coronavirus: Federal Council extends COVID certificate requirement and launches consultation on new entry rules
From Monday, 13 September, a COVID certificate will be required to access indoor areas of restaurants, cultural and leisure facilities, and events held indoors. The certificate may also be used by employers as part of a company’s protection plan. These are the decisions taken by the Federal Council at its meeting on 8 September in response to the ongoing strained situation in hospitals. The measure expires on 24 January 2022. The Federal Council also began a consultation on two proposals: one regarding rules on entering the country for people who have not been vaccinated or who have not recovered from COVID-19, and another on people vaccinated abroad obtaining a Swiss COVID certificate.
Insights into current drone defence technologies
An event on the topic of «Defence against Micro- and Minidrones» will take place on 9 September 2021 in the military training area Bure (JU). This event is organised by armasuisse Science and Technology together with the Combat Training Centre West of the Swiss Armed Forces. The aim is to enable representatives from the Federal Administration and Armed Forces, as well as from authorities and organisations for security and rescue to obtain insights into current drone technologies.
Largest Swiss aid transport under way for conflict zone in eastern Ukraine
Switzerland is currently carrying out its largest ever aid operation to eastern Ukraine. Yesterday, a first convoy of a total of 144 lorries carrying Swiss relief supplies crossed the line of contact bound for Donetsk, accompanied by six members of the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit (SHA). Swiss Humanitarian Aid is providing local communities in need in the conflict zone with water treatment chemicals, hospital equipment and medical material to combat the pandemic. In total, the aid delivered amounts to around CHF 12 million.
Afghanistan: Switzerland completes evacuation operation
A total of 385 people have been flown out of Afghanistan in Switzerland's largest evacuation operation to date. The FDFA is in contact with the remaining 11 Swiss nationals in Afghanistan. The evacuation has now been completed and the crisis unit for Afghanistan dissolved. Although the operation has been successful, Switzerland remains concerned about the deteriorating security situation in Kabul and strongly condemns yesterday's attacks.
Coronavirus: Federal Council to launch precautionary consultation on extending COVID certificate requirement
It is currently difficult to gauge how the epidemiological situation is likely to develop. If hospital admissions continue to rise as sharply as they have recently, hospitals could be overstretched within just a few weeks. The Federal Council wants to be able to act quickly if necessary. At its meeting on 25 August, it therefore decided as a precautionary measure to consult the cantons and social partners by 30 August on tightening measures against the spread of the coronavirus. The focus is on extending the requirement to present a COVID certificate to access indoor areas of restaurants, cultural and leisure facilities and indoor events. The Federal Council has also decided that from 1 October the cost of tests to obtain a COVID certificate will no longer be covered by the Confederation.
Evacuation from Kabul: Swiss charter flight departs for Tashkent
On 23 August 2021 at 10.30am, a SWISS aircraft chartered by the FDFA took off from Zurich for the Uzbek capital Tashkent. The plane will bring people who were recently evacuated from Kabul back to Europe. With this flight, Switzerland is supporting the airlift to bring people out of Afghanistan. So far, around 100 people with a Swiss connection have been flown out of Kabul. The first local SDC staff and their families were also able to leave Kabul yesterday.
Evacuation from Kabul: FDFA organises charter flight to Uzbekistan and supports air bridge for people leaving Afghanistan
On 21 August 2021, a SWISS plane will fly to Tashkent to pick up people previously evacuated from Kabul. The plane will bring Swiss citizens and people from different countries to Europe. With this flight, the FDFA is supporting the air bridge of international partner states that is allowing people to leave Afghanistan. In a telephone conversation with his Uzbek counterpart Abdulaziz Kamilov on 19 August 2021, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the FDFA, was able to ensure that various logistical problems for the charter flight are being resolved and thanked him for Uzbekistan's support for the evacuation efforts. On Saturday, about 1.3 million masks for Uzbekistan will be brought to Tashkent on this charter flight to protect against COVID-19.
Fires in Greece: Swiss emergency deployment completed
The firefighting operation carried out by Swiss Humanitarian Aid and the Swiss Armed Forces in Greece came to an end on 14 August 2021. The three Super Pumas and their crews, together with the Swiss Humanitarian Aid rapid response team, supported the Greek authorities in the forest fire suppression operations for seven days. In total, Swiss helicopters carried out 226 rotations and dropped more than 386 tonnes of water on the fires.
COVID-19: Switzerland sends 13 tonnes of medical supplies to Vietnam
Switzerland is helping Vietnam to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Swiss Humanitarian Aid is sending 30 ventilators, 500,000 antigen tests and 280,000 medical face masks to the country, which has been hit hard by the virus. The consignment includes 5 million francs' worth of relief supplies.
Air2030: Project "New Fighter Aircraft" reaches the final of an international project management competition
armasuisse has qualified for the final of the IPMA World Congress with the project "New Fighter Aircraft" (NFA) in the category large projects. On September 22, 2021, the winner of the competition will be announced amongst three finalists. The globally recognized project management association IPMA (International Project Management Association) has been organizing the international competition annually since 2002 for projects and programs, in which teams are honored that can demonstrate special achievements in project and program management.
Wildfires in Greece – Switzerland sends support helicopters and firefighting crews
Wildfires are currently raging across several regions of Greece. Responding to a call for assistance by the Greek authorities, Switzerland is dispatching three helicopters and firefighting crews to help contain the fires.
COVID 19 in Thailand: Switzerland sends 26 tonnes of medical supplies to Bangkok
Switzerland is helping Thailand to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. This Wednesday, Swiss Humanitarian Aid dispatched 100 respirators and more than a million antigen tests to Bangkok. The provision of this aid coincides with a tour of Southeast Asia by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis that will include a visit to Thailand.
COVID-19 in Tunisia – Switzerland sends medical equipment worth CHF 335,000
Switzerland is helping Tunisia to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Swiss Humanitarian Aid dispatched 15 respirators and 60 oxygen concentrators to Tunis this Friday, with a total value of nearly CHF 335,000. It is Switzerland's fifth international delivery of this type in recent weeks.
COVID-19 in Mongolia – Switzerland sends medical assistance worth CHF 850,000
Switzerland is helping Mongolia to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. On Monday 12 July, Swiss Humanitarian Aid sent 40 respirators and 45 oxygen concentrators to Ulaanbaatar with a total value of around CHF 850,000.
Successful bug bounty pilot project in Federal Administration
From 10 to 21 May 2021, the National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) conducted a bug bounty pilot project in collaboration with Bug Bounty Switzerland GmbH, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and Parliamentary Services (PS). The project was very successful and the lessons learned are to be incorporated into the implementation of further bug bounty programmes in the Federal Administration.
2025 Military World Winter Games to take place in Switzerland
The 2025 Military World Winter Games will be taking place in Switzerland. On Monday, 28 June 2021, the Board of Directors of the Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) approved Switzerland as the host of the 5th Military World Winter Games. More than 1,000 athletes from all over the world will be taking part in this major sporting event. The Games will be held from 23 to 30 March 2025 in Central Switzerland and in the Goms region. Switzerland will be placing particular emphasis on sustainability and make this the first ever carbon-neutral Military World Games.
Air2030: Federal Council decides to procure 36 F-35A fighter aircraft
The Federal Council is set to propose that Parliament approve the procurement of 36 F-35A fighter aircraft from US manufacturer Lockheed Martin and five Patriot fire units from US manufacturer Raytheon. An evaluation has revealed that these two systems offer the highest overall benefit at the lowest overall cost. The Federal Council is confident that these two systems are the most suitable for protecting the Swiss population from air threats in the future. The Federal Council took the decision at its meeting on 30 June.
New offset policy: Strengthening security-relevant industry and public register of offset transactions
armasuisse’s new offset policy will come into force on 1 July 2021. It regulates the implementation and control of offset transactions in conjunction with the procurement of defence equipment abroad. The adjustments aim to contribute to strengthening the security-relevant technology and industry base (STIB) with regard to security policy challenges in an even more targeted manner. For the purposes of transparency, the most important key figures of offset transactions will be published in an offset register under the new policy.
Study on elite sport in Switzerland: Sports policy support measures showing an impact
Swiss sport was supported by a raft of sports policy measures between 2011 and 2019. They contribute to building an intact competitive profile in the elite sports sector and have a positive impact on athletes’ prospects as well as coaches’ working conditions. These are key findings of the study entitled “Elite sport in Switzerland – Snapshot SPLISS-CH 2019” conducted by the Federal Office of Sport FOSPO in collaboration with Swiss Olympic. The study was presented today in Bern at a media conference with Federal Councillor Viola Amherd.
Cyber-Defence Campus launches Cyber Startup Challenge 2021
The Cyber-Defence Campus of the DDPS starts a new Cyber Startup Challenge. With this year’s slogan “Strengthen your Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC)”, innovative solutions in the area of cyber threat intelligence to protect critical infrastructures are being sought. The winning company can demonstrate its solution in a real environment of the DDPS. The registration deadline is 31 July 2021.
Coronavirus: Federal Council to take further, wide-ranging reopening step and to relax rules on entering Switzerland
The measures in place to contain the coronavirus will be eased and simplified significantly from Saturday, 26 June. The requirements to work from home and to wear masks outdoors, for example, will be lifted. Furthermore, restaurants will again be allowed to seat as many people together as they wish, and large-scale events with COVID certificates will be allowed to take place without restrictions on capacity or the number of people present. This reopening step therefore goes further than proposed in the consultation. At its meeting on 23 June, the Federal Council also decided to relax rules on entering the country. The health-related measures at the border will now focus on those arriving from countries with variants of the virus that give rise to concern.
Biden – Putin summit: strengthened air policing and airspace restrictions
At its meeting on 11 June 2021, the Federal Council approved a temporary restriction on the use of airspace during the summit between President Biden and President Putin from 15 to 17 June 2021 in Geneva. The Swiss Air Force will provide air policing and tighter airspace surveillance. The armed forces will also set up a support service to assist the civilian authorities in providing security on a subsidiary basis.
Coronavirus: Federal Council launches consultation on fifth round of reopening steps
From Monday, 28 June, the Federal Council is planning a further range of reopening measures, including lifting the requirement to wear a mask outdoors, increasing group sizes per table at restaurants, and reopening clubs and discos for people with a COVID certificate. Shops, leisure and sports facilities should be able to make greater use of their available capacity. In addition, rules for events should be simplified and harmonised. The Federal Council submitted these and further proposals for consultation following its meeting on 11 June. A final decision will be taken on 23 June.
Switzerland's Security 2021: The Federal Intelligence Service publishes its latest situation report
The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to have a lasting impact on national and international security policy. Switzerland’s security continues to be shaped in particular by the growing rivalry between major powers. The Federal Intelligence Service’s (FIS) abilities to anticipate, identify and assess in time threats and developments that are of strategic importance to Switzerland are crucial for taking preventive measures. The latest FIS situation report presents the main developments in intelligence over the past year.
COVID-19: Switzerland sends aid supplies to Sri Lanka
After supplying aid to India and Nepal, Switzerland is also helping Sri Lanka to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. On Monday 7 June 2021 Swiss Humanitarian Aid dispatched medical supplies worth CHF 3.5 million to Colombo, including half a million antigen tests, 50 ventilators, 150 oxygen concentrators and testing materials.
Coronavirus: Fourth round of lifting restrictions from Monday goes further than originally planned
A further round of lifting restrictions will take effect on Monday 31 May. The Federal Council is going further than proposed in the consultation, particularly with regard to events, private gatherings and restaurants. In so doing, it is responding to the improved epidemiological situation and the results of the consultation. People who have been vaccinated will now also be exempt from quarantine along with those who have recovered from COVID. At its meeting on 26 May, the Federal Council also decided when and under what conditions large-scale events can once again take place and how the organisers should be compensated if the events have to be cancelled for epidemiological reasons.
Research Projects of the Cyber-Defence Campus DDPS at the NATO Cyber Conflict Conference
Two research papers of the Cyber-Defence (CYD) Campus DDPS will be presented at the international Conference for Cyber Conflict (CyCon) in Tallinn, Estonia from 25-28 May 2021. The projects will deal with two key topics of the CYD Campus: Cyber security in outer space and the use of artificial intelligence in the area of cyber defence.
Federal Councilor Berset opens the World Health Assembly of the WHO
Federal Councilor Alain Berset opened the 74th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva. In his speech, Alain Berset praised the work of the World Health Organization (WHO) and asked the member states to make sustainable investments in a global health protection structure. During their attendance at the Assembly, Federal Councilor Berset and WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus signed a cooperation agreement as part of the WHO BioHub initiative.
Switzerland sends 30 tonnes of humanitarian supplies to Nepal for COVID-19 relief
Switzerland is helping Nepal cope with an extremely difficult health situation caused by COVID-19. Today, Friday, Swiss Humanitarian Aid, part of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), dispatches 1.1 million antigen tests, 40 respirators, 10 oxygen concentrators and personal protective equipment to Kathmandu. This humanitarian aid shipment is worth around CHF 7.5 million.
Coronavirus: Federal Council adopts strategy for the coming months and launches consultation on fourth round of reopening steps
At its meeting on 12 May, the Federal Council adopted a 3-phase model setting out its strategy for the coming months. At the end of May, when all those at especially high risk who wish to be vaccinated have received their jabs, the government will move from a protection phase to a stabilisation phase and initiate a fourth round of reopening steps. If the epidemiological situation allows, restaurants, for example, will be allowed to resume service indoors on Monday, 31 May. The maximum number of people allowed to attend public events will be increased. For businesses that carry out regular testing, working from home will become a recommendation rather than a requirement. The Federal Council will send out the proposals to the cantons, the relevant parliamentary committees and social partners for consultation. A decision will then be taken on 26 May.
First NCSC semi-annual report with focus on healthcare
The National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) has been operational since 1 July 2020. The NCSC's first semi-annual report deals with the most important cyberincidents of the second half of 2020 in Switzerland and internationally. It replaces the former MELANI semi-annual report. The main topic is digitalisation in the healthcare sector and the challenges it faces with regard to current cyberthreats.
Hermes 900 HFE drone crash in Israel: Investigation results on the cause of the crash now available
Following the crash of a drone of type Hermes 900 HFE intended for the Swiss Armed Forces over Israeli territory, the Israeli Ministry of Transport initiated an investigation to clarify the cause of the accident. The final report is now available. The manufacturer has repaired the damage and will cover all costs.
First bug bounty programme in the Federal Administration
On 10 May 2021, the Federal Administration and Bug Bounty Switzerland GmbH will launch a joint pilot project. The aim of the two-week test, which will be overseen by the National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC), is to gather initial experience with bug bounty programmes and assess their future use in relation to the security of infrastructures in administrations and companies.
COVID-19 in India: Switzerland sends hundreds of oxygen concentrators and 50 respirators
Switzerland is supporting India in its fight against COVID-19. Swiss Humanitarian Aid has sent several hundred oxygen concentrators and 50 respirators, worth about CHF 3 million, to assist hospitals in India.
RUAG puts a new site into operation in Payerne
The construction work for the new RUAG Ltd site on the military airfield in Payerne is now complete. At the beginning of April, the newly formed team was able to take possession of the first F/A-18 and begin working on it. Construction began in May 2020 in cooperation with the Swiss Air Force, and all twelve of the newly created posts have been filled.
Federal Councillor Viola Amherd holds phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III
On 8 April, Federal Councillor and Head of the DDPS Viola Amherd spoke on the phone with her American counterpart, Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III, about current security policy issues, bilateral relations and the Air2030 programme.
«Cyber Start-up Challenge 2020»: Start-up company CounterCraft convinces jury
The DDPS Cyber Defence Campus has launched a challenge to find start-ups and innovative technologies in the cyber area. In the first edition of the challenge, the start-up company CounterCraft was able to impress the jury with its innovative solution in the area of cyber threat intelligence. The company can now implement a Proof of Concept tailored to the Swiss Armed Forces in 2021.
Air2030: Bilateral armaments meetings with authorities and industrial companies in the manufacturer countries
A delegation from the DDPS led by National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger will visit representatives from the authorities and industrial companies who are in-volved in the Air2030 programme in January 2021 in Paris, Berlin and Washington.
COVID-19: Switzerland can start vaccinating vulnerable groups already in December
On 19 December 2020 Swissmedic, the Swiss agency for the authorisation and supervision of therapeutic products, approved the first COVID-19 vaccination for the Swiss market. The vaccine from Pfizer/BioNTech is suitable for adults from age 16. The first doses of vaccine will be delivered to Switzerland in the next few days, stored by the Armed Forces Pharmacy, and then distributed to the cantons. After that the cantons will be able to start vaccinating vulnerable groups in targeted and supervised settings. From 4 January 2021 the vaccination of vulnerable groups and other priority groups will begin all over Switzerland.
Air2030: Second proposals for new fighter aircraft and extended-range ground-based air defence systems received
The government authorities of the potential candidates for a new fighter aircraft (NFA) and an extended-range ground-based air defence system (Bodluv GR) submitted their second proposal to armasuisse on November 18, 2020. With that, armasuisse starts to work on the evaluation reports, which are planned to be completed in the first quarter of 2021.
Coronavirus: Federal Council adjusts COVID-19 support measures to second wave
During its meeting on 18 November 2020, the Federal Council decided to propose that the winter session of Parliament urgently debate ad hoc adjustments to the COVID-19 Act. This would enable a swifter reaction to ongoing developments during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposal includes an expansion of the hardship support programme to CHF 1 billion in total and an increase of the Confederation's share to around two thirds. In addition, short-time working compensation payments should be extended. In sport, professional and semi-professional clubs should be able to receive support in the form of non-repayable contributions.
The Mont Terri Rock Laboratory has found a new head manager
The Mont Terri Rock Laboratory in St-Ursanne in the Jura region of Switzerland is gaining new management. On 1 January 2021, Christophe Nussbaum, the current Project Manager of the Mont Terri Rock Laboratory, will replace Paul Bossart who is retiring on that date.
Coronavirus: further measures to contain the epidemic, introduction of rapid testing, new rules on travel quarantine
At its meeting on 28 October, the Federal Council agreed a further series of national measures to combat the rapid spread of the coronavirus. The aim of the measures is to sharply reduce the level of contact between people. Discos and nightclubs will have to shut, while bars and restaurants will close at 11pm. All events with more than 50 people, and recreational sporting and cultural activities with more than 15 people, will be prohibited. Furthermore, the requirement to wear masks will be extended to an additional range of situations. The measures will apply from Thursday, 29 October, for an indefinite period of time. From Monday, 2 November, higher education institutions will have to forgo face-to-face teaching. Following consultations with the cantons, the Federal Council has amended the Special Situation Covid-19 Ordinance accordingly. It has also amended the rules regarding travel quarantine, and approved the introduction of rapid testing.
Switzerland's Security 2020: The Federal Intelligence Service presents its annual report
In today’s international system, there are several actors competing for spheres of influence. The Federal Intelligence Service’s (FIS) anticipation and detection capabilities play a leading role in identifying and assessing threats in advance so that preventive measures can be taken in time. The FIS annual report presents the most important developments in the intelligence scene over the past year.
Coronavirus: No quarantine for persons entering from border regions
At its meeting on 11 September, the Federal Council decided on the quarantine rules for persons entering Switzerland from neighbouring countries: only those regions of neighbouring countries where the infection rate is over the limit will be added to the list of countries and areas with an increased rate of infection, not the entire country. Border regions may be exempted from inclusion on the list. In so doing, the Federal Council is responding to the rapid rise in infection numbers, while still taking account of the close interaction between Switzerland and neighbouring regions. The revised ordinance will come into force on 14 September. At the same time, the list of risk areas will be updated.
Closures and diversions of hiking trails and cycle and mountain bike routes can now be found at map.geo.admin.ch
Route closures and detours for non-motorised traffic are now published on the Swiss Federal map viewer map.geo.admin.ch. Thanks to the cooperation between the Swiss Hiking Federation and SwitzerlandMobility, the data is recorded in a standardised and coordinated manner, updated daily and published via web services.
Coronavirus: Large-scale events to be permitted from October under strict conditions and with a permit
At its meeting on 12 August, the Federal Council took the decision to re-allow events for more than 1000 people from 1 October. Strict protective measures will apply and the events will have to be authorised by the cantons, taking into account the local epidemiological situation and their contact tracing capacity. The Federal Council thereby intends to ensure that the epidemiological situation in Switzerland does not deteriorate. At the same time, this careful reopening step takes into account the needs of society and the economic interests of sports clubs and cultural venues.
Hermes 900 HFE drone crashes in Israel
On Wednesday, 5 August, a Hermes 900 HFE drone intended for the Swiss Armed Forces crashed in the desert over Israeli territory during a test flight. The cause of the accident is as yet unknown and is the subject of ongoing investigations.
Cyber dialogue: Switzerland and the US join forces for an open and secure digital space
On Thursday, 9 July 2020, Switzerland and the USA met for the first bilateral cyber dialogue. Together, the two countries are committed to an open and secure digital space. In addition to the FDFA, the FDF with the Federal Delegate for Cyber Security, the DDPS, OFCOM and fedpol are involved in the digital exchange. In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the SwissCovid tracing app attracted particular interest.
Federal Council approves information protection agreement with South Korea
In its meeting on 1 July 2020, the Federal Council approved an agreement with South Korea on the mutual protection of classified information. This agreement will facilitate the work Swiss observers have been carrying out for many years at the inner-Korean border as part of the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission.
Protection against cyber-risks: Federal Council approves ordinance and additional staff
The Ordinance on Protecting against Cyber-Risks in the Federal Administration was adopted by the Federal Council during its meeting on 27 May 2020 and will come into force on 1 July 2020. Moreover, the Federal Council decided to allocate 20 new posts to increase staffing for the implementation of the 2020-2022 national strategy for the protection of Switzerland against cyber-risks.
Coronavirus: Federal Council decides on extensive easing of measures as of 6 June
From 6 June, the measures put in place to fight the new coronavirus will be extensively eased. That is the decision taken by the Federal Council at its meeting on 27 May in view of the positive developments in the epidemiological situation. All events for up to 300 people may now go ahead. Spontaneous gatherings of up to 30 people are now permitted. All leisure and entertainment businesses and tourist attractions may reopen. The Federal Council has also decided to end the extraordinary situation under the terms of the Epidemics Act with effect from 19 June.
Coronavirus: religious services possible again, legal basis for SwissCovid app
Religious services can take place again as of the 28th May 2020. In order to achieve this, the various faith communities must develop protection concepts. This decision was taken by the Federal Council at its meeting on 20th May 2020. It also approved an urgent amendment to the Epidemics Act for the attention of parliament as the legal basis for the SwissCovid App. Furthermore, it instructed the Federal Department of Home Affairs (FDHA) to ensure early access to vaccines.
Air2030: Second proposals for fighter aircraft and ground-based defence system by November 2020
Due to the difficult global situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the second proposals for new fighter aircraft and new extended-range ground-based defence systems are expected in November 2020. The DDPS has set the new date because the manufacturers are affected by measures such as travel restrictions and remote working and the fact that meetings and talks cannot take place in person. This new date does not impact the procurement schedule.
RUAG Ltd expands its service for the Air Force in Payerne
In collaboration with the Swiss Air Force, RUAG Ltd has begun working on the construction of a new location on Payerne’s military airfield. In doing so, RUAG Ltd creates 12 new jobs in the region.