BERLIN – Switzerland’s order of F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin will be significantly more expensive than originally expected, prompting introspection in Bern about possibly altering the procurement.

The original Swiss plan was for 36 jets of the F-35A variant at a fixed price of 6 billion Swiss francs ($7.55 billion). The procurement was decided in 2021 and the contract signed following parliamentary approval in September 2022, with the scope including the aircraft, logistics, training, ammunition and required infrastructure. The delivery was set for 2027 through 2030.

However, negotiations between Bern and Washington, including those between the two countries’ defense ministers, were unable to secure a fixed price, the Swiss government reported in August. Instead, this summer

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