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RIGI project enters next phase

RUAG and Lockheed Martin recently formally defined their con-tinued collaboration in the RIGI project, paving the way for the pro-ject’s next phase. The signed contract ensures that RUAG can establish essential expertise with the final assembly and testing of F-35A fighter jets in order to provide the Swiss Armed Forces with comprehensive support as a life cycle support provider. The RIGI project also secures regional jobs and helps RUAG position itself as a European competence center for military aviation. During the first half of the upcoming year, the first parts are expected to arrive in Switzerland, while production is scheduled to begin in autumn 2027.

At its Emmen location, RUAG will perform final assembly and testing for a total of three F-35A fighter jets. This will enable Switzerland to establish expertise in the latest generation fighter jet and strengthen in-house maintenance capabilities. RUAG is laying the essential groundwork to ensure the availability and operational readiness of the Swiss F-35A fleet over the long term. 

With the RIGI project, Emmen will become one of just four locations worldwide responsible for the final assembly and testing of F-35A jets. This positions RUAG as an important partner in the international F-35 network.

As part of detailed project planning, the scope was adjusted from an original four jets to three. This change enables the development of the planned capabilities and ensures that the program aligns with the defined requirements and available resources.

« For RUAG, RIGI is a key strategic project, and will shape our role in military aviation for decades to come. With our participation in the F-35A program, we are taking on re-sponsibility for one of the main systems of Swiss air defense for the long term. We are making a meaningful contribution to national security and defensive capabilities. »
Jürg Rötheli, Präsident des Verwaltungsrats der RUAG MRO Holding AG