Zurich military personnel returned over 30 tonnes of personal equipment during a five-day demobilization operation held from November 2 to 6, 2026. The logistics effort took place at the Zurich-Reppischtal armory in Birmensdorf, marking the end of service for 1,867 soldiers from the canton.
Zurich Demobilization Week at Birmensdorf Armory
The military administration of the canton of Zurich oversaw the demobilization process alongside the Army Logistics Center in Hinwil. Organizers structured the schedule by districts, which allowed staff to process several hundred demobilizations daily under optimal conditions. Each soldier handed back up to 41 kilos of gear depending on their specific military functions.
Returned items included uniforms, weapons, helmets, protective masks, and various accessories. Daily ceremonies featured a final formation gathering before civil authorities formally released the troops.
Did You Know? Individual soldiers returned up to 41 kilos of personal gear, contributing to a massive total weight exceeding 30 tonnes processed over the five-day demobilization period.
Council of state pronounces liberation of soldiers
Members of the Zurich Council of State officially pronounced the liberation of the soldiers following their final formations. Mario Fehr, the canton’s director of security, highlighted the symbolic importance of the milestone. He characterized the completed tour of duty as a period rich in accomplishments for the departing troops.
The coordinated effort between regional authorities and the Hinwil logistics center ensured the swift intake of thousands of weapons and protective items.
How many soldiers completed their service during the Birmensdorf demobilization?
A total of 1,867 Zurich soldiers turned in their gear and received their official release during the events held from November 2 to 6, 2026.
What was the total weight of the equipment returned by the troops?
Soldiers returned more than 30 tonnes of equipment in total, with individual returns reaching up to 41 kilos per person depending on assigned duties.
Who coordinated the logistics for the five-day operation?
The military administration of the canton of Zurich and the Army Logistics Center in Hinwil managed the logistics for the demobilization at the Zurich-Reppischtal armory.