Mirage cost overruns prompted Switzerland’s first parliamentary inquiry

Switzerland created its first parliamentary investigative commission after cost overruns in the purchase of Mirage III fighter jets, SRF reported.

Parliament approved 871 million Swiss francs on June 21, 1961, for 100 Mirage III aircraft, including accessories, spare parts and munitions. By the end of that year, however, it had become clear that the funding would not be enough.

The Federal Council nevertheless decided against requesting additional funding in 1962 and instead redistributed the approved funds internally. In April 1964, it applied for an additional 576 million Swiss francs.

Of that amount, 220 million francs were attributed to inflation. A further 256 million francs were linked to difficulties in calculating costs, subsequent changes to the aircraft type and the choice of electronic systems. At the same time, the government warned that a third funding request might be necessary.

The additional funding was poorly received. The parliamentary investigative commission was established to address the procurement problems.

The officials held responsible faced consequences. Etienne Primault, commander of the Air Force, was removed from office. Chief of the General Staff Jakob Annasohn resigned, while Defence Minister Paul Chaudet decided in 1966 not to seek another term.