Switzerland signed a €6.035 billion contract to buy F-35A Lightning II 5th-generation fighters

The saga with the purchase of F-35 Lightning II planes for Switzerland is finally officially over. The Swiss government put the finishing touches on the story by signing the contract for the purchase of 5th-generation fighters.

Here's What We Know

Switzerland is buying 36 F-35 Lighting II fighters in the F-35A modification with a four-gun GAU-22/A 25 mm caliber cannon. This is the simplest version of the aircraft from a technological point of view, but it is the basis of the American export. Accordingly, it costs less than the F-35B and F-35C aircraft carriers.

Switzerland made the decision to buy the F-35 Lightning II in a referendum in 2020. The deal had to be concluded by March 2023. The cost of the contract was €6.035 billion. Lockheed Martin will deliver the 5th-generation fighters during 2027-2030.

The F-35A Lightning II will replace the F/A-18 Super Hornet and F-5 Tiger aircraft. In addition to the fifth-generation fighters, Switzerland will receive ammunition, weapons, a logistics package, mission planning systems and additional equipment. Pilot training and education systems are also included.

Source: Swiss Federal Council

Image: Wikipedia, Forca Aerea