The Local Switzerland

OPINION: This is a 1938 moment for Europe, but the war will be a trade war

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 11:46:19 +0100

European leaders sending their troops to Greenland has - writes political columnist John Lichfield - called Donald Trump's bluff when it comes to military conflict. Instead the continent faces the prospect of a long and brutal trade war.

Defence ministry under fire over Israeli drone tests

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 15:25:58 +0100

The Swiss defence ministry has admitted to a “communications breakdown” after it emerged that it had been testing reconnaissance drones in the Golan Heights.

Army chief bows out ‘by mutual agreement’

Thu, 24 Mar 2016 09:55:55 +0100

The head of the Swiss Armed Forces, André Blattmann, is to stand down at the end of the year, amid upheaval in the defence ministry.

Swiss army chief warns of terrorism and unrest

Mon, 28 Dec 2015 11:25:16 +0100

The head of the Swiss Armed Forces, André Blattmann, has warned against cutbacks in the military amid a heightened threat of terrorism around the world.

Switzerland approves plan to buy Israeli drones

Tue, 08 Sep 2015 10:57:33 +0200

Switzerland's parliament on Monday voted in favour of a controversial plan to buy six Israeli surveillance drones worth 250 million Swiss francs ($256 million, €230 million).

Sweden has 'secret plan' to tip Swiss Gripen vote

Wed, 12 Feb 2014 09:38:00 +0100

Sweden developed a secret action plan to influence a referendum in Switzerland on the purchase of 22 new Jas Gripen fighter jets after Swiss Defence Minister Ueli Maurer asked the Swedes for help, according to media reports from Stockholm.

Parliament decision could clip Gripen’s wings

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 10:16:00 +0100

The decision by the upper house of the Swiss parliament not to release funds for the purchase of new Gripen fighter jets has renewed doubt about the deal.

Switzerland 'vulnerable to cyber attacks'

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 12:35:33 +0200

Swiss Defence Minister Ueli Maurer has warned that there are major loopholes in Switzerland’s cyber security, as hacker attacks increase worldwide.

Army support strongest since Cold War

Mon, 23 May 2011 13:38:00 +0200

The popularity of Switzerland's army is at its highest level among young people than since the Cold War, according to a new survey. Analysts say in the era of globalization, traditional institutions are gaining support.