On 20 November last year, the Federal Council decided that Switzerland would take part in the NATO crisis management exercise from 13 to 18 March. The Federal Council's aim is to strengthen international cooperation, particularly in the area of joint crisis management.

In a supplementary report to the Security Policy Report 2021, published on 7 September 2022, the Federal Council envisaged the possibility of Switzerland taking part in NATO exercises in all areas. The aim is to develop international cooperation on security and defence policy with the EU and NATO with a view to strengthening Switzerland's defence capability.

As in previous editions, the aim of CMX25 is to test the alliance's consultation and decision-making procedures at the strategic politico-military level and will involve both civilian and military personnel and in the capitals of Alliance countries, at NATO headquarters and at the two strategic commands. As in previous editions, CMX25 does not involve the deployment of any forces.

The exercise is designed to test global responses to a complex civilian-military scenario in a hybrid environment.

Switzerland has already taken part in similar exercises on a number of occasions in previous years (2001, 2005, 2008 and 2010). Federal offices from the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) are to take part in this year's exercise. The exercise does not involve any troops, and Switzerland's participation in the exercise is compatible with its neutrality obligations.

Switzerland to take part in NATO crisis management exercise (CMX25)