Create a free starter account, or log in.

Get access to four free articles per month, as well as our Decisive Edge Newsletters and Daily News Bulletin.

Email Address

Password

Forgot your password? Reset by clicking here

Create a Password

[[ req.met ? '✓' : '•' ]] [[ req.text ]]

Re-enter Password

Passwords do not match

First Name

Last Name

Country

Confirm your account

Please enter the four-digit pin below that has been emailed to you.

Didn't receive the pin yet?

This pin expires in 20 minutes.

[[ error ]]

By creating an account, you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Stay informed with Shephard's award-winning journalism. Unlock unlimited access and in-depth analysis with a corporate or individual subscription.

Explore your options here

Swiss Air2030 drama builds as US packages tip budget scales

1st October 2020 - 16:00 GMT | by Tim Martin in London

RSS

Two proposed US government packages exceed a CFH6 billion ($6.5 billion) budget limit for Switzerland’s Air2030 fighter acquisition.

The US State Department has cleared the way for Lockheed Martin F-35A and Boeing F/A-18E/F Block III Super Hornet aircraft to be bought by Bern, in the event that one or other is selected as a successor to replace legacy Northrop F-5E/F Tiger II and Boeing F/A-18 Hornet fleets.

An estimated cost of $7.5 billion is, however, attached to FMS approval for 40 Super Hornets (36 F/A-18E and four F/A-18F platforms) and ‘related equipment’ such as engines, weapons and sensors, while a

Already have an account? Log in

Want to keep reading this article?

Author

Tim Martin

Tim Martin is Air Editor for Shephard Media, based in Belfast.

Tim has experience writing …

Read full bio

More from Air Warfare

AUSA 2025: US Army and Bell squeeze MV-75 programme

The MV-75, previously V-280, was originally designed as an assault aircraft which would replace some of the Black Hawk helicopters and add speed as a tilt-rotor platform. It is now envisioned to add a greater multirole capability reminiscent of the Black Hawk fleet.
India elevates defence systems to boost mountain surveillance

India has strengthened its focus on terrain-adaptive intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance following recent incursions and drone activity along the country’s northern borders.
Germany signs contract for 20 Tranche 5 Eurofighters

The aircraft will be delivered between 2031 and 2034 and will be upgraded with the latest electronic warfare capabilities to the EK configuration.
Saab receives order to continue future fighter concept studies out to 2027

The order from the FMV is an extension of the original contract signed in March 2024 and covers exploration of both crewed and uncrewed platforms.
AUSA 2025: GA-ASI and Hanwha to produce Gray Eagle STOL in South Korea

The Gray Eagle STOL will be made available to several international militaries, with initial customer delivery planned for 2028.
AUSA 2025: AeroVironment showcases new variant of Switchblade loitering munition family

The new Switchblade 400 was on display alongside new variants of existing drones: the Switchblade 600 Block 2 and Switchblade 300 Block 20.