Switzerland F-35 procurement faces multi-billion franc cost increase

A report from the Swiss Parliamentary Control Commission (GPK) has revealed significant discrepancies regarding the procurement of F-35 fighter jets. The investigation indicates that the fixed price previously communicated by the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (VBS) under former Minister Viola Amherd was an illusion. According to US authorities, providing Switzerland with a guaranteed price or better conditions than other partner states was legally impossible.

The procurement is now expected to cost between 1 and 2 billion Swiss francs more than originally planned. The report criticizes the VBS for negligence and a lack of transparency, noting that while the department promoted a fixed-price model to the public, the reality was different.

Additionally, the controversy involves the legal services used during the process. The law firm Homburger received approximately 2 to 2.5 million Swiss francs for its work, despite reports suggesting a lack of specific expertise in US law. While Priska Wismer-Felder, president of the GPK, stated there is no evidence of intentional deception, the findings suggest the department acted with significant oversight regarding the contract's actual terms and costs.