Frequently asked questions about military service and insignia
Find all answers to the most asked questions about the Swiss Army, military service, insignia and uniforms. Complete guide based on official 2024 regulations.
Yes, military service is mandatory for all able-bodied Swiss men from age 18. Women can serve voluntarily in all positions. Alternative: civilian service (340 days vs 245 military days).
Recruit School (RS): 18 weeks. Total service: 245 days spread over 9 years with 6 refresher courses of 3 weeks each. Alternative: civilian service 340 days.
Recruitment: between 18-24 years (usually at 19). Recruit School: between 20-24 years. Mandatory service until 30, then militia until 50 (senior officers).
Recruitment lasts 2-3 days: medical examination, physical tests (5 exercises), assignment interview. 2024 sport test: long jump, medicine ball throw, balance, core strength, endurance run.
Soldiers: recruit, private, private first class. NCOs: corporal, sergeant, sergeant major, warrant officer, master sergeant. Officers: lieutenant, first lieutenant, captain, major, lieutenant colonel, colonel, brigadier, major general, lieutenant general.
TAZ 90 = Tenue de Campagne 90, military uniform since 1993. Insignia: function badge (25x25mm), name tag (100x25mm), rank insignia, unit badges. Material: 100% NATO polyester.
TAZ 90: function badge left side under name tag. TenĂĽ A: max 2 specialist badges right chest pocket. Rank badges on shoulder boards. Regulatory colors: olive drab/black per regulation 51.009.03.
MyArmy produit tous les insignes selon les réglementations militaires suisses. TAZ 90, Funktionsabzeichen, insignes de grade conformes aux standards OTAN.