Switzerland completes GBAD sensor assessments

Switzerland has completed sensor evaluation testing of the two downselected systems that are competing for the nation’s long-range ground-based air defence system programme. 

Conducted at Menzingen and led by the armasuisse procurement agency in collaboration with the Swiss army, initial testing took place from May to July 2019, during which the effectiveness of the Eurosam SAMP/T and Raytheon Patriot systems were respectively assessed, as well as the potential required maintenance and training to support their operation. 

Subsequently, from August to September, radar testing of the systems took place, although no firings were conducted.

Each system was involved in ten missions and presented with technical and operational scenarios and presentation of flight targets, during which the aim was to examine the sensors in a Swiss environment and to check the maturity of the systems.

Swiss authorities will now assess the sensor test findings and generate reports on each, and armasuisse will issue a second call for tenders which will be sent to applicants in January 2020. 

Both bids remain in the running for the contract.  

Based on their second offer, armasuisse will determine the overall benefits of each candidate, which alongside a risk analysis will be included in the evaluation report that will compare the overall benefits and acquisition and usage costs over a 30-year period.

The Swiss government claims that it is likely that a winner will be selected by the end of 2020 or beginning of 2021. 

Related Equipment in Defence Insight

SAMP/T

Patriot Air Defence System