On January 17, 2025, the air force chiefs of Germany, Switzerland and Austria signed a cooperation agreement aimed at closer cooperation between the air forces of the three neighboring countries. In their meeting, Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz (Germany), Major Peter Merz (Switzerland) and Major General Gerfried Promberger (Austria) laid the foundation for a more comprehensive cooperation that focuses in particular on the further development of ground-based air defense, the shared use of resources and the strengthening of interoperability.
The signed agreement provides for closer integration of the air forces in several key areas. These include:
- Ground-based air defense: In times of increasing threats from the air, such as drone attacks and ballistic missiles, the development and integration of modern defense systems should be promoted.
- Skill Development: New technologies will be tested and introduced together to increase the operational capabilities of the air force.
- Resource usage: The coordinated use of infrastructure and personnel is intended to reduce costs and create synergies.
- Interoperability: Regular exercises, training courses and joint procedures are intended to improve cooperation at the operational level.
An important part of the agreement is the annual holding of a so-called Air Chiefs' Meeting in the DA-CH format, at which the progress of the cooperation is evaluated and further steps are determined.
importance of cooperation
The deepening of cooperation between Germany, Austria and Switzerland is expressly welcomed by politicians. Austria's Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner emphasised the relevance of the agreement and described it as an important step to protect the population as best as possible. Close cooperation between the European neighbours is essential, particularly in light of the current security policy challenges.
Switzerland, which traditionally takes a neutral stance in international conflicts, also sees added value in the cooperation. Major Merz stressed that Switzerland can further strengthen its capabilities and at the same time benefit from the experience of its partners. Lieutenant General Gerhartz from Germany emphasized the importance of close coordination within Europe in order to be prepared for possible threats.
Joint exercises and exchange programs
A central component of the cooperation are joint exercises and training programs that enable the countries involved to learn from each other and better coordinate their military processes. The exchange of personnel and knowledge is intended to open up new perspectives, especially for young officers and pilots, and promote cross-border cooperation.
In addition, there are plans to develop joint procedures that will enable the air forces to coordinate quickly and efficiently in an emergency. The aim is to increase the ability to respond to crisis situations through standardized procedures and coordinated strategies.
Historical Development and Outlook
The signing of the cooperation agreement is part of a series of measures that have already been taken between the three countries in recent years. Following the implementation of the state treaties on the defence against non-military threats from the air, this agreement represents a logical continuation of the cooperation. While Germany and Switzerland have state-of-the-art air defence systems, Austria contributes in particular its geostrategic location and its expertise in the field of airspace surveillance.
The cooperation could serve as a model for other European countries that want to network their air forces more effectively. Against the backdrop of growing threats, cooperation between air forces will play an increasingly important role in Europe's security.
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