BERN, Switzerland - Switzerland's Federal Council approved the Army Plan 2018 (AP18) outline for parliamentary consideration on February 14. The Plan outlines three priorities, including modernizing select Air Force systems, supplementing Army equipment, and developing training infrastructure. All told the appropriations committed towards meeting these goals within fiscal year 2018 amount to CHF2 billion ($2.15 billion). The breakdown involves CHF848 million for the armament program, CHF742 million for framework credits towards military equipment and CHF463 million for developing real estate for the Swiss Department of Public Protection and Sport (DDPS).
The Air Force seeks to modernize its secondary and primary radar systems and replace its radio communications systems. An upgrade of the AS532UL Cougar medium transport helicopter fleet that will extend their service lives out to 2030 is on tap, too.
The Army will receive new clothing and equipment, primarily ballistic body protection vests.
In regards to training, the DDPS plans to develop training infrastructure at three sites.
Finally, in order to achieve some savings with which to provide the Ministry with more financial flexibility, the Federal Council is requiring that a portion of the aging F-5 Tiger combat aircraft fleet be retired and sold off leaving just 26 units remaining.
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