Switzerland Approves Additional Military Budget to Ensure National Security

The Swiss parliament approved an additional military budget of 1.7 billion Swiss Francs (approximately NT$62 billion) on the 5th, raising the total defense budget for 2025 to 31.5 billion Francs. This move highlights Switzerland's commitment to enhancing defense investments in response to the persistent threat posed by Russian aggression despite its long-standing neutral stance.
This military budget increase is led by newly appointed Defense Minister Viola Amherd, taking lessons from the Ukraine-Russia war. Key components include an allocation of 850 million Francs for ground artillery systems and 290 million Francs for armored vehicle upgrades. Additionally, 30 million Francs will be dedicated to acquiring new reconnaissance drones to enhance intelligence surveillance and battlefield awareness. Furthermore, an investment of 185 million Francs will go towards updating military base facilities, establishing a new military medical center, and modular mobile housing, thereby improving rapid deployment and logistical support capabilities.
Despite Switzerland's historical neutrality, it has sought to enhance its military capability due to the increasing external threats. This year, Switzerland has collaborated with neighboring Austria to conduct ground troop exercises and cross-border airspace monitoring missions, further enhancing the deployment and monitoring capacities of its armed forces. Although some political parties have criticized the budget increase for focusing excessively on heavy equipment and called for resources to be allocated towards cyber security and countering misinformation, the passage of this additional budget illustrates the Swiss government's resolve to take concrete measures to strengthen national defense and ensure the safety of its citizens and society.