US redirects Switzerland’s F-35 funds to Israel for Patriot missiles

A financial mechanism embedded in Switzerland’s military procurement deal with the United States has allowed Washington to redirect Swiss funds originally intended for F-35 fighter jets to purchase Patriot missiles for Israel, according to a report by Swiss broadcaster SRF. Bern had previously canceled its order for the Patriot air defense system while continuing with the F-35 Lightning II program. However, because both payments were managed within the same financial structure, the US retained the legal authority to channel money from the F-35 account toward the Patriot system.

Legal loophole leaves Switzerland powerless

Switzerland’s decision to stop paying for the Patriot system proved practically ineffective, as the US simply redirected funds from the F-35 program to cover the cost. The mechanism effectively neutralized Bern’s sovereign policy choice, demonstrating how Washington’s financial and military supply systems can override a purchasing nation’s political decisions. According to the report, the redirected funds were used to supply Patriot air defense missiles to Israel, which has faced severe shortages of air defense interceptors amid its ongoing war with Iran.

Context of Israeli shortages and Türkiye’s position

The diversion comes as Israel struggles with depleted Patriot missile stocks following weeks of intense Iranian drone and missile attacks. Reports have also emerged that a former Volkswagen factory in Germany will now produce missiles for Israel’s Iron Dome system. For Türkiye, which was removed from the F-35 program in 2019 after purchasing Russian S-400 systems, the Swiss case highlights the risks of dependency on US defense procurement systems. Ankara has since accelerated its domestic defense industry, producing indigenous systems such as the Kaan fighter jet, the Hisar and Siper air defense systems, and armed drones that have proven effective in multiple conflicts. Turkish officials have repeatedly warned allies about the dangers of US unilateralism in arms sales.