Swiss Air Force Completes Radar Modernisation Under Air2030 Programme

Switzerland has successfully completed the modernisation of its four radar stations used for permanent air surveillance. On 20 March 2025, armasuisse officially handed over the final upgraded radar system to the Armed Forces for operational use, marking a significant milestone in the country’s air defence infrastructure.

Strengthening Air Surveillance with Advanced Technology

The upgrades are part of the broader "Radar" project within the Swiss Air Force’s Florako system, which ensures continuous monitoring and control of both civil and military air traffic. This modernisation was approved under the 2016 armament programme to enhance system reliability and extend operational effectiveness for years to come.

Each radar station was upgraded in a phased manner to prevent disruptions in air surveillance. Given the stations' locations at altitudes of up to 3,000 metres above sea level, the process required meticulous coordination and detailed planning to handle the challenging conditions.

Key Features of the Upgraded Radar System

The newly modernised radar stations boast several improvements:

• Enhanced Detection Range: The upgraded systems provide better tracking and detection capabilities, ensuring Swiss airspace remains secure against any potential threats.

• Improved Processing Speeds: Faster data processing allows for quicker response times, essential for both civil and military aviation.

• Better Integration with Air2030 Systems: The new radars seamlessly connect with other Air2030 elements, such as command and control networks and upcoming fighter aircraft.

• Weather Resilience: Advanced components enhance radar performance in adverse weather conditions, crucial for high-altitude operations.

Following successful acceptance and operational tests, the final radar station has been fully integrated into the Armed Forces Cyber Command for continuous operation. “This marks an important milestone in the project,” armasuisse stated, confirming the successful modernisation of the Flores radar components.

Future Plans and the Role of Air2030

While the radar upgrade is a key achievement, additional sub-projects remain. These include replacing control and display units and conducting final warranty works, with full project completion expected by November 2026. These steps will ensure the Swiss Air Force maintains peak operational readiness.

The radar project is a crucial part of the larger Air2030 programme, which also includes:

• The acquisition of new-generation fighter jets.

• A long-range ground-based air defence system.

• Modernisation of command and control systems (RLE@NDP – C2Air).

These efforts reflect Switzerland’s commitment to safeguarding its airspace through advanced technology and strategic planning. With step-by-step modernisation, the Swiss Air Force continues to reinforce its national defence capabilities for the future.