Switzerland shortlists SAMP/T, Barak MX for long-range air defense

Switzerland narrowed its evaluation of a second long-range ground-based air-defense system to Eurosam's French-Italian SAMP/T NG and Israel Aerospace Industries' Barak MX. The government continues to plan for the U.S.-made Patriot system, whose deliveries have been delayed, and wants an additional supplier to expand the protected area and ammunition options. Its defense department will assess technical and military characteristics alongside foreign-policy and economic factors before recommending a purchase. The October announcement is a shortlist for further evaluation, not a selection of either candidate or a cancellation of Switzerland's existing Patriot procurement.