Switzerland will voluntarily destroy 60 Rapier surface-to-air missiles that could help Ukraine

In the 1980s, Switzerland acquired Rapier surface-to-air missiles. Almost 50 years later it was decided to dispose of them.

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Switzerland began decommissioning Rapier in 2022, although the air defence systems were modernised in 2007. A total of 60 surface-to-air missile systems will be scrapped in four phases. The first batch has already been destroyed.

Switzerland claims that it will adhere to a policy of neutrality, but some officials have criticised the government's decision. In particular, National Council member François Pointet believes that Rapier should have been handed over to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

The surface-to-air missile system was developed by the British Aircraft Corporation in the 1960s. Despite being 70 years old, the Rapier could help the Ukrainian Defence Forces to destroy low flying targets. The launcher uses MK 1 and MK 2 missiles. It has a maximum launch range of 8km and an altitude of 5km.

Source: Neue Zürcher Zeitung