Another 'special relationship': The British-Swiss early cold war coordination of defence (1947-53)

Switzerland's participation in the highly political Marshall Plan was considered the utmost commitment the West could expect from this neutral country during the unfolding Cold War. In military matters, though, the national doctrine seemed to be applied most rigidly. Indeed, the Swiss refrained from establishing substantial contacts with their direct neighbours as well as with the chief sponsors of European security. Neutrality, however, did not prevent the Swiss from entertaining uniquely British-oriented military relations, that culminated during the Korean war in a high degree of coordination of defence, wherein Field-Marshal Montgomery played a crucial mediatory role.