Swiss Army Enhances Drone Capabilities with First-Person View Pilot Training
Bern, Switzerland – November 21, 2025 – The Swiss Army has considerably expanded its drone capabilities following the successful completion of training for fifteen recruits specializing in First-Person View (FPV) drone piloting. The training, conducted in Thun, culminated in a field test in Bure, designed to refine operational procedures for unmanned aerial systems, including those intended for offensive applications. This initiative underscores Switzerland’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces and integrating advanced technologies into its defense strategy.
Expanding the Swiss Army’s Drone Task Force
The program falls under the purview of the swiss Army’s Drone Task Force, a collaborative effort involving the armed forces, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement (Armasuisse), and various external partners. The task force is dedicated to the research, development, and implementation of drone technology across a spectrum of military applications.
The recent training focused on equipping soldiers with the skills necesary to operate drones from a first-person viewpoint, offering a more immersive and precise control experience. this is particularly crucial for complex maneuvers and operations requiring detailed situational awareness. The field test in Bure allowed these newly trained pilots to apply their skills in a realistic surroundings, contributing directly to the development of standardized operating procedures for attack drones.
“This training represents a vital step in the Swiss Army’s ongoing efforts to integrate drone technology effectively,” stated a representative from the Swiss Army’s communications department. “The ability to deploy skilled FPV pilots will enhance our operational capabilities and provide a crucial advantage in future scenarios.”
Switzerland’s Evolving Drone Strategy
Switzerland has been steadily increasing its investment in drone technology in recent years, recognizing its potential to enhance reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeted engagement capabilities. The country’s neutral stance and mountainous terrain present unique challenges and opportunities for drone deployment.
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement (Armasuisse) is currently evaluating various drone systems to meet the evolving needs of the Swiss Armed Forces. This includes exploring options for both tactical and strategic drone platforms, with a focus on interoperability and cybersecurity.
The successful completion of this FPV pilot training program, and the ongoing work of the Drone Task Force, demonstrate Switzerland’s proactive approach to harnessing the power of drone technology while adhering to international regulations and ethical considerations. Further deployments and training exercises are planned for 2026, building upon the foundation established in Thun and Bure.
Keywords: Swiss Army, drones, FPV drones, unmanned aerial systems, military technology, Switzerland defense, Drone Task Force, Armasuisse, military training, attack drones, defense procurement.