Ukraine is a Priority: US Postpones Delivery of Patriot Missiles to Switzerland

Switzerland will not be able to receive missiles for the Patriot air defence system from the United States as planned because it is giving priority to Ukraine in new deliveries, the Swiss portal Blick reported.

This information was also confirmed by the Swiss Federal Office for Defence Procurement, which said that deliveries of Patriot missiles would be delayed due to the US government's decision and would probably not take place as planned.

Previously, it was expected that the PAC-3 MSE guided missiles for the Patriot would be adopted by the Swiss army in 2030 and 2031. Now, these deadlines may be shifted due to a reference in the agreement to force majeure, which the US calls the war in Ukraine.

In October 2023, Switzerland announced the signing of a contract with the US government for the purchase of PAC-3 MSE guided missiles for Patriot air defence systems. 

The PAC-3 MSE (Missile Segment Enhancement) is the latest type of missile for the Patriot and is primarily used to defend against short-range warheads. The new weapon is part of the Swiss Armed Forces' Air2030 air defence modernisation programme. As part of this programme, the country has also signed an agreement to purchase modern F-35A fighters.