The upgrades are part of the broader “Radar” project under the Swiss Air Force’s Florako system, which monitors and controls both civil and military air traffic. The modernisation ensures continued system reliability in the coming years, having been approved in the 2016 armament programme.
Each radar station was upgraded in sequence to ensure uninterrupted air surveillance operations. The work required careful coordination and detailed planning, particularly due to challenging conditions at altitudes of up to 3,000 metres above sea level.
Following successful acceptance and operational tests, the final site was formally approved for use by armasuisse and the Air Force. The system has now been transferred to the Armed Forces Cyber Command for day-to-day operation.
“This marks an important milestone in the project,” armasuisse stated, confirming the successful modernisation of the Flores radar components. Additional sub-projects—including the replacement of control and display units and final warranty works—will follow.
The final completion of the radar project is scheduled for November 2026, after all warranty periods have concluded. These upgrades are essential to maintaining the Swiss Air Force’s operational readiness.
The radar project forms part of the larger “Air2030” programme, which also includes the acquisition of new fighter aircraft and a longer-range ground-based air defence system. “Radar” and “RLE@NDP (C2Air)” focus on updating command and control elements and will be submitted to Parliament as part of separate procurement packages.
Through this step-by-step modernisation, Switzerland continues to strengthen its air defence infrastructure for the future. The Air2030 programme represents a comprehensive effort to secure national airspace through advanced technology and strategic planning.
