European Defence Agency in Switzerland: The European Defence Agency (EDA) and the Swiss Armed Forces have completed a military exercise to test how drones and ground robots can help soldiers during urban combat. The trials took place from November 10 to 12, 2026, at the Bure military training area in Switzerland’s Jura region.
The exercise was named Alpine Experiment Logistics (ALPEX LOG). It was the first time the EDA held an operational testing campaign outside the European Union. The main aim was to find better ways to deliver supplies to soldiers near battle zones and bring injured troops to safety.
Drones and Ground Vehicles Tested for Military Support
The trials were held in a village built for urban combat training. Different aerial and ground-based unmanned systems were used to perform tasks that soldiers may face during real military operations.
Elbit Systems Wins $260 Million PULS Rocket Artillery Deal From European NATO Country
Wheeled and tracked ground vehicles were tested for carrying supplies to troops and bringing injured soldiers back from areas close to the fighting. Flying drones were also used to transport goods and check buildings and nearby areas.
These tasks focused on the final part of military supply work. This is often difficult because troops may be operating in crowded streets and areas where normal supply vehicles can’t easily reach.
The exercise also allowed soldiers to check how these machines could work with their existing military plans. Developers received direct feedback from the troops about the equipment and areas that needed improvement.
Swiss and European Defence Teams Take Part
The Swiss Armed Forces Logistics Organisation hosted ALPEX LOG. Soldiers from a tank battalion and military logistics units joined the trials. Swiss and European companies also took part by bringing the equipment and operating it during the exercise.
The campaign was part of a wider European effort to test new military technology. It followed similar trials in Italy in 2025 and used lessons from European field experiments held in Portugal in 2026.
Switzerland was able to join the programme through its cooperation arrangement with the EDA, which was updated in 2025. The agreement allows both sides to work together on defence technology and share information.
Türkiye Offers Saudi Arabia Defence Partnership Backed by $120 Billion Project Portfolio
EDA Aims to Speed Up Military Technology
The EDA brings together defence ministries, military facilities and private companies to test new equipment and study its possible use. Its new Centre for European Defence Innovation will also focus on helping armed forces use new technology faster.
Before these systems become part of military operations, trials help soldiers understand their performance and give developers a chance to make changes.
EDA Director Nathalie Guichard said, “Innovation creates defence value only when it is tested, trusted, and ultimately used by the military.”
