Switzerland has chosen the SIG Sauer P320 as its new standard service pistol, marking the end of the decades-long service of the SIG P220, also known as the Pistol 75, which has equipped Swiss troops since the 1970s. The selection was made under the New Generation sidearm program led by the Swiss Defence Procurement Office, which aims to modernize the country’s small-arms inventory.
According to Swiss defense officials, the P320 met key acquisition requirements, including mandatory participation from domestic industry. SIG Sauer, headquartered in New Hampshire but operating a facility in Schaffhausen, confirmed that production lines for the P320 will be established in Switzerland. This move aligns with federal armament strategy goals to strengthen local supply chains and enhance national security independence.
The decision followed a competitive evaluation process involving technical trials, field testing, and assessments of long-term logistics and safety. Finalists included the SIG P320, Glock G45 Gen 5, and Heckler & Koch SFP9. While Glock’s entry satisfied all mandatory criteria, the P320 prevailed due to its superior overall arms-policy alignment, economic advantages, and notably lower life-cycle cost over an expected 30-year service life. Necessary adjustments to improve ergonomics and durability were reviewed and approved by the manufacturer.
The Swiss military plans to acquire around 140,000 P320 pistols, beginning with an initial delivery of 50,000 units. Funding for the procurement falls within a mid-range double-digit million Swiss franc budget, which also covers holsters, training materials, and non-firing dummy pistols required for instruction and readiness activities.
