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Breaking Neutrality? Swiss Minister Calls for Arms Export Reform and Defense Partnerships Amid Drone Threat
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![Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko]( "Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko")
Switzerland must be prepared to work with other armed forces in the event of drone incursions, Swiss Defense Minister Martin Pfister said in an interview with Neue Zürcher Zeitung on October 2.
Pfister underscored the growing risks of cyberattacks and drone intrusions, pointing out that there is a need for improvement in the country’s defense capabilities against unmanned systems. He added that Switzerland will soon present a dedicated system to counter such threats.
Asked how NATO might respond if Switzerland were attacked, the minister admitted that, as a non-member of the Alliance, the country remains vulnerable to pressure.
“Drone attacks can also cause great damage. That is why Switzerland must be able to cooperate with other armed forces. Stable relations are important,” he said.
The defense chief also called on lawmakers to ease restrictions on arms exports, arguing that Switzerland’s current stance undermines trust among partners.
“That is why it is important for Parliament to continue advancing the planned revision of the military materials law: we must ensure that Switzerland remains a reliable partner,” Pfister emphasized.
Earlier, Switzerland expanded its sanctions against Russia, targeting individuals and entities tied to Russia’s military-industrial complex, including companies managing shadow fleet vessels and trading in Russian crude oil.
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