Govt wants war drones and fighting robots

(c) US Air Force

The military is set for a major overhaul, with plans to create a dedicated drone and robotics battalion by 2028.

The Federal Council says the army must adapt to emerging threats, including cyberattacks, hybrid warfare and long-range strikes. 

Under the strategy, around 80 percent of military investment will focus on air defence, drone capabilities and protecting critical infrastructure. 

Defence Minister Martin Pfister says the goal is to transform the army from a training force into a combat-ready force, although the plans depend on approval of additional funding, including a proposed VAT increase.

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