Amherd said the Russian invasions of Ukraine made it clear that Switzerland should seek closer cooperation, including the US, she told a news conference in Washington on Friday.
But she reiterated that neutral Switzerland had not plans of joining the 28-member NATO alliance.
She was addressing the media following a meeting with the US deputy defence minister, Kathleen Hicks.
The talks also covered security concerns caused by climate change and promoting participation of women in the armed forces.
Switzerland is to buy 36 F-35 fighter jets as well as air defence systems from the US following a nationwide vote in 2020.
A pacifist group launched a people’s initiative trying to block the purchase, prompting concerns the deal might be delayed.
Hicks said the acquisition would not only increase Switzerland’s sovereign defence capabilities, but also boost interoperability with other European partners and the US, according to a statement by the US defence ministry.
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Is Switzerland moving towards a European security alliance?
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Calls for more military cooperation are getting louder in Switzerland. How far can the country bend its traditional policy of neutrality?
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Defence Minister Viola Amherd is standing by the government’s decision to buy F-35A jets despite pushback from a left-wing coalition.
Swiss defence minister repeats calls for stronger army
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The Swiss armed forces need to be boosted and better prepared, argues Defence Minister Viola Amherd. Nato membership however is “not an option”.
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