A Swiss soldier was seriously injured during a night exercise in Austria as part of the troop trial "TRIAS 25" on April 30, 2025. The incident occurred around midnight when the soldier, a 19-year-old, was lying in his sleeping bag and was struck by an armored wheeled vehicle driven by a 26-year-old.
The vehicle reportedly ran over the soldier's right leg at low speed, leading to severe injuries. Following the accident, he was swiftly transported to the St. Pölten University Hospital by rescue helicopter for medical treatment. The Swiss military justice has initiated an investigation into the incident.
According to the Swiss Army, the soldier is currently in hospital care and will return to Switzerland as soon as transport is feasible. He underwent surgery and is not in life-threatening condition. Reports indicate that he has already had contact with his comrades since the incident.
This unfortunate event took place during the international military exercise "TRIAS 25," which has been ongoing at the Allentsteig training area in Lower Austria since April 14 and will continue until May 9. The exercise involves a total of 950 Swiss, 150 German, and 200 Austrian soldiers, focusing on testing the Swiss Army's "Future of Ground Troops" concept.
The Allentsteig training area, located approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Vienna, has been selected for this exercise due to the limited options available for such extensive training within Switzerland. The Swiss Army aims to enhance its operational capabilities through this trilateral collaboration.
In light of the incident, the military justice system is working diligently to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the accident. The investigation will provide insights into how such incidents can be prevented in the future, ensuring the safety of all personnel involved in military exercises.
As the investigation unfolds, the Swiss Army has expressed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational effectiveness during training exercises. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with military training and operations.
Officials from the Swiss Army have emphasized the importance of rigorous safety protocols and training procedures to minimize the risk of accidents during exercises. The incident has raised questions about the visibility and awareness of personnel during nighttime operations, particularly when soldiers are in vulnerable positions.
In statements to the media, the Swiss Army reiterated its dedication to the well-being of its soldiers and the need for continuous improvement in training practices. The military justice investigation will play a crucial role in identifying any lapses in safety measures and ensuring accountability.
As the exercise continues, the focus remains on fostering cooperation and collaboration among the participating nations while prioritizing the safety of all personnel involved. The Swiss Army is committed to learning from this incident and implementing necessary changes to enhance training safety.
In conclusion, the incident involving the Swiss soldier during the TRIAS 25 exercise highlights the challenges and risks associated with military training. As the investigation progresses, the Swiss Army aims to reinforce its commitment to safety and operational excellence, ensuring that all soldiers can train effectively while minimizing risks.
