Switzerland : Federal Council approves army plan 2018.

On February 14, Switzerland's Federal Council approved the Army Plan 2018 (AP18) outline for parliamentary consideration. The plan outlines three priorities, including modernizing some air force systems, supplementing army equipment (new clothing and equipment, primarily ballistic body protection vests), and developing training infrastructure.

Swiss Leopard 2 (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Air Force seeks to modernize its secondary and primary radar systems and replace its radio communications systems. An upgrade of the AS532UL Cougar medium transport helicopter fleet that will extend their service lives out to 2030 is on tap, too.

To achieve some savings with which to provide the Defense with more financial flexibility, the Federal Council is requiring that a portion of the aging Northrop F-5 Tiger combat aircraft fleet be retired and sold off, leaving just 26 units remaining.