Switzerland: a vote on the purchase of combat aircraft sparks a lively debate

A Hawker Hunter fighter plane disarmed at Payerne air base, August 25, 2020. Fabrice COFFRINI / AFP

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Six billion Swiss francs - plus five and a half million euros - to buy fighter jets.

This is what the Swiss confederation is asking for in a referendum this Sunday, September 27.

Voters must say whether they are willing to replace the aging Air Force fleet.

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From our correspondent in Geneva,

Jérémy Lanche

This is an essential expenditure for the security of the country, says the Swiss government, for which the defense of the territory also involves the defense of the air space.

This is not the opinion of the opponents, who deplore an unnecessary purchase in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis.

It is the left which is especially opposed to combat planes.

She talks about a waste of money when the Swiss economy is in a historic recession.

Need money 

Socialist deputy Ada Marra does not take offense against what she calls " 

toys

 " which will cost the country dearly.

“ 

There are two or three mythical subjects in Switzerland, the army is one of them.

We know very well that by the time a fighter plane takes off from Switzerland, the enemy plane has already crossed the whole country.

So, it is absolutely useless in itself because the starting six billion which will become 24 billion subsequently, we would need, precisely to pay the unemployment which promises to be greater because of the

Covid in

particular

 ”, deplores -she.

This is not the first time that the Swiss have to vote on the subject.

The last time was in 2014. They then refused the purchase of 22 Swedish Grippen fighters.

This time, the government does not say what type of device it plans to acquire.

This is nothing to cool off voters.

According to the latest polls, the yes to combat planes is largely in the lead.

With 56% of favorable opinions.

►Also listen

: Switzerland is relaunching the plan to purchase combat aircraft

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