Swiss Army Plans Revival of Cold War Era Bunkers

Military initiative to modernize and reactivate hidden mountain fortresses sparks debate over defense strategy and resource allocation.

The Swiss Army intends to reactivate more than 100 previously secret combat bunkers.
Army Chief Thomas Süssli states that many bunkers are in good condition and could be repaired quickly.
The Swiss military currently lacks troops trained to operate stationary fortress mortars.

More than 100

fortresses

1943

operational era

"A very large number are still in very good condition and could be repaired in a short time with parliamentary approval."
— Thomas Süssli

"If the war in Ukraine were to spread to Switzerland, it would involve trench warfare like that in World War I."
— Werner Salzmann

Resurrecting the Reduit

The Swiss Army intends to reactivate more than 100 previously secret combat bunkers.
Army Chief Thomas Süssli states that many bunkers are in good condition and could be repaired quickly.
The Swiss military currently lacks troops trained to operate stationary fortress mortars.

More than 100

fortresses

1943

operational era

"A very large number are still in very good condition and could be repaired in a short time with parliamentary approval."
— Thomas Süssli

"If the war in Ukraine were to spread to Switzerland, it would involve trench warfare like that in World War I."
— Werner Salzmann