Switzerland expands international cooperation in ammunition procurement
Bern, 17.07.2026 — Switzerland is taking part in the Ammunition Support Partnership (ASP) of the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA). This promotes the joint procurement of ammunition as well as its monitoring and environmentally sound disposal. Thanks to economies of scale, the costs of procurement can be reduced and the delivery times shortened.
Switzerland has already been working together with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) since 1996 and participates in the support partnerships for air-to-air missiles, the ground-to-air missile Stinger and the air defence system Patriot.
Switzerland has now also joined the Ammunition Support Partnership (ASP). This encompasses a diverse portfolio of over 2,000 ammunition types in the land, air and water areas. The participating states can cover their ammunition requirements through joint procurements as part of the ASP. In comparison with national procurements, this results in considerable cost savings, such as shorter delivery times, thanks to economies of scale. In addition, the NSPA offers services as part of the ASP in the areas of ammunition monitoring, transport and disposal. Apart from Switzerland, 26 other nations participate in the ASP.
Implementation of the Federal Council’s Armament Policy
Swiss industrial companies will be able to participate in NSPA invitations to tender in future if Switzerland participates in the respective Support Partnership. This will strengthen the Security-relevant Technology and Industry Base and thus the defence capability of Switzerland. It also offers Switzerland the opportunity to strengthen cooperation with partner states, which is line with the Federal Council’s Armament Policy Strategy.
Logistical support through the NSPA
The NSPA is the central organisation of NATO for multinational procurement, support and supply. It supports the member states in management, the supply of spare parts and maintenance, amongst other things. In addition, it provides support in the area of ammunition monitoring as well as in technology and configuration in procurements, training and transport.
Compatible with Switzerland’s neutrality
Participation in the NSPA ASP is compatible with Switzerland’s neutrality. If one of the participating states becomes involved in an international armed conflict at a later point in time, Switzerland can withdraw from the agreement in order to comply with its obligations under neutrality law.