Ruag to assemble three F-35A jets in Emmen

Swiss defence company Ruag will complete the final assembly and testing of three F-35A fighter jets at its Emmen facility, SRF reported. Ruag and Lockheed Martin have set out the work in a contract.

The first parts are expected to arrive in Switzerland in the first half of 2027, with production due to start in autumn that year. The project, known as Rigi, is moving into its next phase.

Ruag said the contract would allow it to build essential expertise in assembling and testing F-35A jets. Emmen will become one of four locations worldwide where the aircraft undergo final assembly and testing.

The plan was reduced from four jets to three. Ruag said the change would keep the programme in line with its requirements and available resources.