An Alpine Superpower?

The European Union’s lack of military capability has made it somewhat of a joke in recent years. Among the various member states of the EU there are some exceptions — Denmark comes to mind — but, generally speaking, Western Europe lacks the capacity to defend itself without the help of the United States. If the American hegemon were to withdraw or collapse, Europe would become vulnerable to foreign predation long before it could rearm.

Not so Switzerland. The Swiss have a long tradition of muscular self-defense, and are now intent on beefing up the size and strength of their army. Many thanks to JLH for this translation from Politically Incorrect:

Switzerland Upgrades Its Defense
June 19, 2011

The Swiss minister of defense, Ueli Maurer (SVP) has great plans for the future of the Swiss army. In defiance of all European trends to saving, there will again be 100,000 soldiers prepared to defend the country. Maurer would really like to raise the Swiss army from 80,000 to 120,000, but 100,000 will be approved by all parties and pass in parliament. This is a clear reversal from the politics of the 1990s, when the army was reduced. Equipment will also see more investment.

So what’s next? The Swiss Navy? A single aircraft carrier deployed on Lake Lucerne would match the combined naval air capabilities of Britain and France…