Switzerland considers easing arms re‑export restrictions
The President of Switzerland expressed her support for amending the ban on the re-export of Swiss weapons to Ukraine. She noted that such restrictions are starting to significantly impact the Swiss arms industry and, consequently, the security of the country.
12:34 PM EDT, October 29, 2024
"Personally, I think we need to make a step forward for our industry. It becomes difficult because countries like the Netherlands have decided not to buy in Switzerland as it’s not free to re-export, which I understand. If we have a problem with our armaments industry, that means we also have a security problem because it’s important to have technology and know-how," said Viola Amherd, as reported by Reuters.
Will Switzerland change its approach to weapon re-export?
Reuters points out that Switzerland, despite its long-standing neutrality, is a significant arms supplier. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, in 2022, Switzerland ranked 14th in the world regarding the quantity of military goods sold.
In 2023, the sale of Swiss weapons decreased, largely attributed to Switzerland’s neutral stance. The authorities not only refrained from directly aiding Ukraine but also blocked assistance planned by other countries.
Blocked transfer of Leopard 1A5 tanks
The issue of nearly one hundred Leopard 1A5 tanks stored by the RUAG company in Italy garnered significant attention. A proposal to sell them to Germany, which could then transfer them to Ukraine, was made. The Swiss government initially blocked this transaction and later launched an investigation of RUAG's activities.
The Leopard 1A5, a tank from the 1990s, represents the last major upgrade of the Leopard 1. Thanks to Western allies' efforts, many of these tanks have reached Ukraine. Although they are inferior to newer tanks, they still offer more capabilities than even older Soviet-era models, and the potential transfer of about 100 additional units was seen as a substantial reinforcement for Ukraine.
An important feature of the Leopard 1A5 tank is the EMES 18 fire control system with a thermal sight, based on the EMES 15 system from the first variants of the Leopard 2 tank. Ukrainian soldiers assert that the Leopard 1A5 is noticeably better than, for example, the T-62 or T-72. It is also equipped with a rifled 105 mm cannon and an engine that allows the crew to accelerate to about 40 mph on hard surfaces and about 25 mph off-road.
Viola Amherd stated that Switzerland must invest more in security throughout Europe and aims to strengthen ties with partners, including NATO, for this purpose. However, she emphasized that Switzerland, acting as a peace mediator in global conflicts, does not and will never deliver weapons directly to any country in a state of war.
