Switzerland Can Use the F-35A Independently

CH-Media reported on dependencies on the USA in connection with the procurement of US weapons systems. The article makes various false statements about the F-35A as well as the Patriot system and the procurement projects in question.

The DDPS states:

• A "remote control" or "blocking" of the F-35A fighter jets, for example through external interventions in the electronics, is not possible.
• Switzerland does not need consent if it wants to use its weapon systems or guided missiles for its defence. It can do this autonomously, independently, independently and at any time.
• Switzerland will receive F-35A aircraft from ongoing production with the same standard (Block-4) as all other customers and program partners of the USA. This is contractually agreed with the USA.
• Switzerland has never sent an AMRAAM to the USA for a software upgrade. It is true that from time to time there are software upgrades that improve the performance of the guided missile. However, it is up to Switzerland itself to decide whether they want to upgrade or not. The guided missiles remain operational at all times, even without upgrades. If Switzerland decides to carry out an upgrade, then the US would send a so-called "mobile team" to Switzerland to carry out the upgrade together with Switzerland.
• US systems for secured data communication with Link-16 and GPS satellite navigation are used by all Western fighter aircraft and weapon systems, including models from European manufacturers. Complete independence from US technology is not possible in this area, not even with European systems. However, both the F-35A and the Patriot system can also be used effectively without a data link or satellite navigation.
• The Patriot system does not need "special radar data" to fend off ballistic guided missiles or hypersonic missiles. The Patriot system is equipped with a radar system that allows the system to be used autonomously.
• Switzerland is striving for the greatest possible operational, technical and logistical autonomy in the procurement of its weapons systems. However, complete independence from foreign manufacturers would only be possible if the systems and their components were developed entirely in Switzerland. This is neither the case today nor a realistic or economically sensible scenario for the future.
• A particular strength of the F-35A is that it can independently generate a comprehensive situational picture thanks to its sensor technology, thus enabling pilots to be aware of the situation in all areas of responsibility. The corresponding data processing is carried out autonomously in the F-35A.
• Before and after Switzerland's decision in favour of the F-35A, several European countries, including neighbouring Italy and Germany, also opted for the F-35A. The F-35A will be one of the most used fighter aircraft in Europe towards the end of the 20s. As a result, the F-35A also offers a number of additional cooperation opportunities and increased interoperability in Europe if Switzerland so wishes.
• The USA uses its export control policy – just like Switzerland itself – to control that US weapons are not transferred to third countries without the consent of the USA. Switzerland procures the systems for itself and has no intention of passing them on. Accordingly, this is not a restriction for Switzerland.