The Swiss army still fights with 35-millimeter anti-aircraft guns from the 1960s.Image: vbs/yves baumann
The “Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung” (FAZ) expresses sharp criticism of Switzerland’s military capabilities and describes the country as a possible security risk for Europe.
May 4, 2026, 9:19 p.mMay 4, 2026, 9:20 p.m
The focus is also on Switzerland’s special role for European infrastructure. The “Star of Laufenburg” in the canton of Aargau is a central hub of the European power grid on Swiss soil. The networks of Germany, France and Switzerland are connected here. A failure could have consequences far beyond national borders.
This is precisely why Switzerland’s military vulnerability is causing concern in Germany. According to the FAZ The country has “no means whatsoever” to defend against modern threats such as drone or missile attacks. The existing systems are outdated and some date back to the 1960s. Switzerland is now a “security risk”.
Army chief Benedikt Roos is also quoted in clear terms: There is “more or less nothing” against threats from the air.
Swiss army chief Benedikt Roos.Image: keystone
There are also warnings about the risks within Switzerland. The Defense Department DDPS notes that the country could be perceived as the “weakest link” in the European security structure. Critical infrastructures of international importance, such as in the energy sector, are particularly at risk. Attacks could trigger chain reactions and impact neighboring countries.
In addition, political pressure is growing. According to the FAZ, Switzerland is sometimes seen abroad as a “free rider” that benefits from the protection of surrounding NATO states without making sufficient contributions itself. In fact, military spending has fallen significantly since 1990 and remains below the level of many European countries. (hkl)