Switzerland joins European air defence Initiative Sky Shield

Switzerland will join a German-led effort aimed at bolstering Europe's defence against air strikes, as the traditionally neutral country continues to recalibrate its policy after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Armament Chief Urs Loher signed a declaration to join the European Sky Shield Initiative, his office said Friday. The project involves countries jointly procuring air- and missile-defence systems and is designed to increase cost efficiency and flexibility.

Germany launched ESSI in 2022 with the aim of making the continent less vulnerable to air strikes at a time of increasing geopolitical tension. Some 21 nations, including the UK and Turkey, have signed up. The Swiss government had decided in April to be a part of the effort and this week's official joining comes after the other members agreed to the accession.


Switzerland said earlier that aside from procurement, it's interested in cooperating with European neighbors in training and logistics related to air defence.