Switzerland, Lockheed Martin Discuss F-35 Offset Deal

Switzerland’s National Armaments Director Urs Loher met with Lockheed Martin officials in the United States last week to discuss industrial offset obligations tied to the country’s planned purchase of F-35 fighter jets.

The visit, held from 5 to 7 August in Fort Worth, Texas, was part of regular consultations between Switzerland’s Federal Office for Defence Procurement (armasuisse) and the U.S. defense manufacturer. A Swiss government statement said the talks aimed to “develop the ongoing dialogue” and “substantiate cooperation” under the project.

The offset discussions come as the multi-billion-franc F-35 deal faces political pressure in Switzerland. The 2021 order for 36 jets, valued at 7.3 billion Swiss francs ($9.1 billion), has been scrutinized after U.S. tariffs and price increases sparked criticism from lawmakers.

U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 39% tariff on Swiss exports, including watches and coffee capsules, following failed trade talks with Bern. Swiss defense officials have also raised concerns over higher-than-expected F-35 costs.

Green Party leader Balthasar Glättli argued, “A country which throws rocks at us in trade shouldn’t get a present.” Social Democrat co-president Cédric Wermuth has pushed for a referendum to halt the purchase, while Liberal MP Hans-Peter Portmann questioned whether the government should “consider a partial or full stop of the contract” in favor of deeper European defense cooperation.

Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter has discussed the issue with U.S. officials in Washington. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said both sides reaffirmed their defense ties.

Switzerland has pledged to source at least 30% of its arms from Europe and continues to explore closer defense industry collaboration within the EU. Neutrality laws limit Swiss arms exports to conflict zones, leaving domestic defense manufacturing capacity constrained.