The ground-based air defence system is designed to intercept cruise missiles, short-range ballistic missiles, and aircraft before they reach their targets. The system has been used widely in the Middle East and by the US Army.

Raytheon land warfare and air defense president Tom Laliberty said the company will work with local Swiss defence industry partners to deliver the units.

“Designed specifically to counter today’s threats, Patriot is the proven, reliable ground-based air defense capability for the US Army and now 17 international countries,” he said.

“Switzerland now joins this Global Patriot user community and will benefit from unparalleled commonality, cooperation, experience, and cost sharing over the weapon system’s life cycle.”

The contract was originally announced by the US Department of Defense on 28 March this year.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.