Switzerland is moving to formalize its membership in the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) to enhance international cooperation in defense procurement, training, and logistics. The initiative was launched in 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Marcel Berni from ETH Zurich noted that Switzerland’s tradition of neutrality and lack of defense against air attacks with ballistic missiles make joining the initiative beneficial for the country’s security.
The Swiss Federal Department of Defense clarified that Switzerland would have the autonomy to decide its level of involvement in ESSI, focusing mainly on procurement projects, training, and logistical cooperation. Integration into a ground-based air defense network is not planned.
The ESSI aims to establish an integrated European air defense system to counter ballistic missiles, contributing to NATO’s wider Integrated Air Defense System. The agreement includes a suspension clause that prohibits participation in armed conflicts between states. The initiative has expanded to 21 participating states, with Greece and Turkey expressing interest in joining. Switzerland’s membership bid will be decided within two months.
