Switzerland Unveils New Bombardier Global 7500 for Government Missions

BERN, Switzerland — Switzerland’s defense procurement agency, Armasuisse, has unveiled its new Bombardier Global 7500 aircraft, which will serve as the primary transport for government and military personnel, including the head of state. The jet, delivered in December 2024, is set to enter service in February 2025, replacing the aging Cessna Citation Excel.

The Global 7500, powered by GE Aerospace Passport engines, was delivered to Montreal, Canada, on Dec. 17, 2024, and flown to Payerne Airfield in Switzerland two days later. It will be based at Payerne for two years before relocating to Bern-Belp Airport. The aircraft is the first Global 7500 configured for head-of-state transport and will be equipped with a self-protection system by late 2025 to guard against threats like shoulder-launched missiles.

Bernhard Lehmann, Head of Communications at the Federal Air Transport Service, emphasized the jet’s enhanced capabilities. “The Bombardier Global 7500 provides Switzerland with greater capacity and freedom to act, which is essential given the current geopolitical climate,” he said. The aircraft boasts a range of 13,000 kilometers, nearly double that of its predecessor, and features 19 seats, a crew rest compartment, and advanced security systems.

The procurement of the jet, including training, spare parts, and VAT, cost approximately 103 million Swiss francs ($112 million). It will be used for a variety of missions, including Federal Council trips, emergency evacuations, disaster relief, and humanitarian aid. Armasuisse plans to house the aircraft in a dedicated hangar at Bern-Belp within two years.

Bombardier Defense, which modifies business jets for military roles at its facility in Wichita, Kansas, aims to expand its defense revenue in the coming years. The company has previously delivered a Global 6500 for military use and is developing a new aircraft for the German air force.

The Global 7500’s introduction marks a significant upgrade for Switzerland’s air transport capabilities, ensuring the country can respond effectively to both domestic and international challenges.