Swiss armaments chief visits Israel to explore anti-drone technology
Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The head of Swiss armaments, Urs Loher, made a discreet visit to Israel in mid-July to inquire about anti-drone technology.
- While no new contracts were signed, the visit aimed to understand Israeli capabilities, with no immediate acquisition plans stated.
- Switzerland maintains Israel as a partner country, unlike Ukraine, due to its neutrality policy.
The head of Swiss armaments, Urs Loher, undertook a discreet visit to Israel on July 13 and 14, focusing on the nation's anti-drone technology. Although no new contracts were finalized during the trip, Loher reportedly sought to understand Israel's advancements in this critical defense sector.
Armasuisse, the Swiss defense procurement agency, stated that there are currently no intentions to acquire new technology from Israel. However, Israel remains a key partner country for Switzerland, a status not extended to Ukraine due to Switzerland's strict adherence to its neutrality policy. This distinction highlights the delicate balance Switzerland navigates in its international defense relations.
Loher's visit occurred amidst a busy July for the Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), which reported numerous international engagements. The head of the department, Martin Pfister, had visited Paris and Stockholm earlier in the month, while the chief of the armed forces, Benedikt Roos, was in the United States and had previously visited Kosovo and Bosnia-Herzegovina. This level of international activity underscores the Swiss army's active pursuit of global partnerships.
there is no intention of acquisition for now
Originally published by Le Temps in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.