With the World Economic Forum (WEF) commencing on January 13, the Swiss army has begun its deployment of up to 5,000 personnel to provide security in Davos, protecting key infrastructure and managing airspace for the high-profile international event.
"The majority of troops will arrive on Monday."
Fortress Davos is officially under construction. As the global elite prepare to descend on the Swiss Alps, the Swiss Army has initiated a massive mobilization, deploying a staggering 5,000 troops to turn the tranquil resort town into one of the most heavily guarded zones on Earth. The operation, which kicked into high gear this Monday, sees the majority of these forces flooding into the canton of Graubünden, establishing a perimeter of steel and snow around the World Economic Forum.
This is no ceremonial guard. The deployment represents a critical surge in national security efforts, with the troop ceiling set firmly at 5,000 personnel—a robust force ready to counter any threat. This massive influx of manpower underscores the gravity of the event; the world is watching, and Switzerland is taking zero chances. The mission, running from January 13 through January 29, transforms the valley into a secure enclave, ensuring that the high-profile discussions shaping the global economy proceed without interruption. The sheer scale of this operation signals Switzerland's unwavering commitment to its role as a secure host for international diplomacy.
The rules of engagement have shifted. These soldiers are not merely standing watch; they are empowered with significant authority. In a decisive move to bolster the local constabulary, members of the armed forces are authorized to utilize policing measures if necessary to fulfill their missions. This creates a formidable hybrid security apparatus where military precision meets law enforcement capability.
The scope of their duty is immense. While the spotlight remains on the Congress Centre, army personnel are tasked with the critical protection of vital infrastructure facilities that keep the event running. From power grids to communication nodes, the army is the backbone of the forum's physical security. Furthermore, logistics and command support units are being deployed across the country, ensuring that the operation in Davos is supported by a nationwide network of military efficiency. This is a total defense posture, integrating front-line security with deep logistical support.
Security on the ground is matched by an impermeable shield in the sky. The Swiss Air Force has launched a comprehensive air defense operation, effectively sealing the airspace above the forum. Surveillance flights are already underway, enforcing a strict lockdown that leaves no room for error. The restrictions are draconian and precise: the airspace over Davos is strictly limited, with a near-total clampdown in effect from 8 am on Monday, January 19, until 5 pm on January 24.
This aerial blockade extends to all forms of aviation. The Graubünden cantonal police hold the final say on the use of model airplanes, drones, delta gliders, and paragliders, likely grounding hobbyists to ensure clear skies for security operations. Additionally, the Air Force is tasked with the high-stakes transport of persons protected under international law, ferrying VIPs through the secure corridor. The message to unauthorized aircraft is clear: the skies over Davos are closed.
While the camouflage is military, the authority is distinctly civilian. The entire operation remains under the strict jurisdiction of the civilian authorities of the canton of Graubünden. This unique Swiss model of subsidiary support allows the canton to leverage the overwhelming manpower of the army while maintaining democratic oversight. It is a delicate but powerful balance of state and federal power.
The numbers tell a story of escalation and sustained vigilance. In 2025, the daily deployment averaged around 4,400 troops. This year's authorization of up to 5,000 personnel suggests a readiness to surpass previous benchmarks if the situation demands it. As the WEF attempts to navigate a world in crisis, Switzerland proves once again that it can provide the neutral, fortified ground necessary for global dialogue. The cost is high, and the effort is immense, but for the next two weeks, the Swiss Army is the guarantor of global stability in the Alps.