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Switzerland: Armed and Peaceful
Switzerland may
be known for
its high-quality
chocolates and precision timepieces, but there is more
to this landlocked country than sweets and watches.
Switzerland's 7.5 million citizens have
managed to avoid the wars and
conflicts of
other nations. In fact, the country has vowed that it
will never get involved
in an armed conflict. However, for its own
defense, Switzerland still has a strong military with an
arsenal of the most technologically advanced equipment
available.
Known as
the Swiss Armed Forces, Switzerland's military
consists of a regular army and air force and a
militia made up of
everyday citizens with a willingness to fight for their
homeland. The backbone of the Swiss army is the
country's able-bodied male citizens between the ages of
19 and 31 who are required to
serve as
part-time soldiers. Women also serve
voluntarily in
the military.
In many countries,
getting troops ready for action can take weeks or
months. The Swiss, however, require all males to keep a
rifle, ammunition, and a uniform in their homes.
As a result,
within 12 hours, the entire Swiss army can be ready to
take on any
task. Furthermore, Switzerland has enough room in bomb
shelters for every citizen, and the country's bridges
and tunnels have explosives on them so they can be
destroyed in case of
invasion. Though Switzerland is neutral, its
proximity to many major wars in the past has
taught the nation to be prepared.
Switzerland may
remain on the outside of the world's military conflicts,
but this tiny country isn't all about peace. The Swiss
are ready to defend themselves
should the
need arise.
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