My tweets for February 2025

Latest on top (updated regularly):
(https://twitter.com/martinbroek)

February 18

***

***
The presence of large Russian companies at #IDEX2025 is much more significant than in previous years.

#Russia is clearly no longer afraid of the #CAATSA legislation and its consequences, probably after receiving assurances from President #Trump https://www.meta-defense.fr/en/2025/02/17/caatsa-agreement-russia-united-states-idex-25/

***
Mega deal develops: #Taiwan considering multi-billion dollar arms purchase from #US, sources say (between $7bn and $10bn) https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/taiwan-considering-multi-billion-dollar-arms-purchase-us-sources-say-2025-02-17/

Mega #wapendeal in voorbereiding: ‘Taiwan overweegt tot $10 mrd aan wapens van #VS te kopen’ https://fd.nl/politiek/1546087/taiwan-overweegt-tot-10-mrd-aan-wapens-van-vs-te-kopen

***
Sergey Chemezov, of #Rostec, highlighted the significant role Middle Eastern nations for Russia's #arms exports. They account for ½ of Rosoboronexport's contracts. At #IDEX2025 Rostec is shows advanced weaponry, with the latest battlefield innovations. https://www.onearabia.me/local/rostec-showcases-200-military-products-idex-2025-011-99011.html

Rostec (in green on map of floor plan) is just a few steps away from German Henshold, UK Rolls Royce, and Norwegian Kongsberg. Wonder if they chat with each other about the attractivity of petrodollars and autocratic regimes. https://www.onearabia.me/local/rostec-showcases-200-military-products-idex-2025-011-99011.html

***
Funded by an undisclosed international donor, Ukraine has placed an order with Helsing, a leading European military startup, for production of 6000 #AI-enabled kamikaze #drones, in a bid to significantly increase the nation’s loitering munitions inventory. https://breakingdefense.com/2025/02/ukraine-orders-6000-loitering-munitions-from-germanys-helsing/

February 17

***
Leaving behind a "terror arsenal" has not only emboldened the Taliban but also enabled militant groups to wreak havoc across Pakistan and the broader region. Real solutions lie not in unrealistic calls for weapon recovery but in enforcing accountability. https://tribune.com.pk/story/2528573/abandoned-us-weapons-repeating-history-of-terror

Idem: After Gadaffi was toppled with Western help, arsenals with arms were looted, spread accross Northeast Africa and created havoc on a enormous scale. Notably the stored arms were not protected. Instead of security the intervention brought insecurity. https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2012/12/chaos-in-mali-collateral-damage-van-de.html

***
#Poland adopted significant amendments to control legislation. Main goal of these changes is to prevent the circumvention of EU #Russia #sanctions & to update the Polish Sanctions Act in line with current EU regulations. Article lists practical measures. https://sanctionsnews.bakermckenzie.com/poland-introduces-new-measures-targeting-sanctions-circumvention/

***
Flighttime Enterprises a US subsidiary of a Russian aircraft parts supplier, along with 3 (former) employees, have been charged federally with crimes related to a scheme to illegally #export #aircraft #parts and components from the #US to #Russia https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/ohio-based-supplier-aircraft-parts-and-three-employees-charged-illicit-export-scheme

***
“Een ondubbelzinnig embargo op in, uit- en doorvoer van wapens naar Israël, en een moratorium op nieuwe samenwerkingen met Israëlische defensiebedrijven is niet enkel nodig om medeplichtigheid aan genocide te voorkomen, maar is ook essentieel om rechtszekerheid te scheppen voor Belgische bedrijven”, besluit Mattijs Van den Bussche, campagnemedewerker van Vredesactie. https://www.vredesactie.be/wapenhandel-met-israel-blijft-doorgaan-111111-en-vredesactie-status-quo-geen-optie

***
Ukraine can produce weapons “faster and cheaper” than anywhere else in Europe, Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said. https://euromaidanpress.com/2025/02/16/even-at-war-ukraine-makes-weapons-faster-and-cheaper-than-eu-says-danish-pm/

***
Artikel over zwartboek (1980) over oefening Pantserstorm haalt misstanden door #KCT / #Commando's op. ,,De elite-eenheid geniet toch een heldenstatus. (...) Wie kritiek heeft, deugt natuurlijk voor geen cent," zegt Jos Brocken, destijds de schrijver ervan. https://www.bndestem.nl/brabant/jos-bracht-de-beulen-van-de-commandos-ernstig-in-verlegenheid-wist-nederland-wel-wat-er-gebeurde~a88c4575/

***
Korea will run a country booth at #ArmsFair #IDEX in the #UAE this week, the state arms procurement agency said Monday, as the country seeks to boost its overseas arms exports. https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-02-17/national/defense/Korea-to-run-country-booth-at-UAE-arms-exhibition/2243586

HOW IS it organised in your country?

https://www.idexuae.ae/exhibit/exhibitor-list/

Isn't it against a sound arms export policy to let your military businesses show their products in a country arming parties in conflcits like #Libya and #Sudan like the #UAE is? Or is a strict arms export policy an idée fixe? #IDEX

February 16

***
India, UAE…: Are the F-35 and #Trump preparing to #kill the #European military #aircraft industry?
https://meta-defense.fr/en/2025/02/14/f-35-inde-eau-kas-tuer-industrie-europe/

It's a question raised in #France and the European #F35 clients will shrug their shoulders and continue buying in Bethesda, Maryland instead of in #Europe.

***
The Ivorian Army will acquire 3 #Thales GM200 radars, value estimated €50 million. The 1st Thales Ground Master 200 radar (https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/markets/defence-and-security/air-forces/airspace-protection/mid-range-radars/ground-master-200 ) is expected to be delivered by March, with plans to order an additional three units in 2025. #IvoryCoast https://www.military.africa/2025/02/ivory-coast-to-acquire-thales-gm200-radars-in-e50-million-deal/

No other priorities to expand #security?

Almost 40% of 28m people are living below the national poverty line; +40% are food insecure. More than ½ of the Ivorian population has no reliable access to safe drinking water, and basic sanitation is even worse. https://www.bmz.de/en/countries/cote-divoire/social-situation-4842

***
#Turkey’s rapid rise as a major #drone exporter has sparked debate over its #HumanRights implications. Begum Zorlu @begumz_ explores Turkey’s “no-questions-asked” policy and highlights potential war crimes linked to Turkish drones. https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/humanrights/2025/02/15/a-human-rights-perspective-on-turkeys-drone-exports/

***
"S. Korea has become one of China's biggest competitors in the Southeast Asian weapons market," Seong Hyeon Choi expained in the SCMP (https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3298747/why-chinas-loss-could-be-south-koreas-gain-southeast-asia-seeks-new-weapons-suppliers) why S. Korea is rapidly expanding its exprots by providing high-quality weapons at low prices. https://www.mk.co.kr/en/world/11242120

***
#Damen launches new range naval logistics support ships.

The LSS series is designed to enable sustained deployment and provide enhanced support in a cost-effective manner.
https://www.naval-technology.com/news/damen-naval-logistics-support-ships/

But will someone control its exports of these ships designed for military tasks?

***
Na de bevrijding: dienstweigeren tijdens de volgende oorlog Beide mannen die ik een decennium geleden interviewde over hun dienstweigertijd zijn inmiddels overleden. Reden om dit artikel nog eens boven te halen. https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2014/03/na-de-bevrijding-dienstweigeren-voor-de.html

February 14

***
Michael Klare fore sees a fight in the the US MIC: The Secret War Within the Pentagon (between old and new tech).

"Multibillion-dollar weapons companies are not likely to step aside without a fight. And that fight will likely divide the Trumpian universe."

https://tomdispatch.com/a-new-military-industrial-complex-arises/

***
Summary

• Trump: US will raise military #sales to #India by many bns of dollars.
• Indian official: Trump’s #F35 offer still a proposal.
• Indian official: F-35 purchase process hasn't started yet.
• #Lockheed: Any talks on F-35 sales will be between governments.

https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/markets/commodities/trump-says-india-agreed-purchase-more-us-oil-gas-2025-02-13/

***
To promote peace, security and human rights #Saudi Arabia can gain the industrial know-how it needs to participate in the #GCAP #fighter program by setting up assembly lines for NH90 heli's and Eurofighters, a senior Italian industrial official has said. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/02/13/leonardo-exec-floats-eurofighter-as-stepstone-for-saudi-gcap-entrance/

February 13

***
Peace advocates: Why is a weapons CEO on our #hospital’s board?

#Lockheed Martin’s CEO sits on the board of Mass General Brigham, which owns Northampton’s Cooley Dickinson Hospital. That’s a “profound #conflict of interest,” local #peace activists say.

https://theshoestring.org/2025/02/12/peace-advocates-why-is-a-weapons-ceo-on-our-hospitals-board/

***
Russian military spending soared last year by 42% in real terms to Rbs13.1tn. IISS states that's equivalent to $462bn on the basis of purchasing power parity #PPP (adjusts for what currencies can buy in their home countries). https://archive.ph/EsmcP#selection-2397.0-2397.90
How to value $405.5bn in PPP?

For a start see the PPP number per country: https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/PA.NUS.PPP?order=wbapi_data_value_2014+wbapi_data_value+wbapi_data_value-last&sort=desc

The use of PPP exchange rates in this comparison is also problematic. The PPP creates the possibility to compare the value of a currency in different countries. Mandy Smithberger at the Center for Defense Information at the Project On Government Oversight https://pogo.org/analysis/2018/05/army-chief-of-staff-is-cooking-budget-numbers/

***
Misdaad, moorden en geweld blijven gemeenschappen hier en in de Cariben destabiliseren. Deze week werd weer een jonge man doodgeschoten op Curaçao, wat leidde tot wijdverspreide onrust. Terwijl de meeste Caribische landen strikte wapenwetgeving hebben die legaal wapenbezit moeilijk maakt, blijven illegale wapens de belangrijkste drijfveer achter ganggeweld en misdaad. De nabijheid van de Verenigde Staten - verreweg de grootste bron van illegale wapens - maakt misdaad een blijvende uitdaging.

https://antilliaansdagblad.com/nieuws-menu/opiniecolumn/30740-opinie-crisis-van-illegale-wapens-moorden-en-geweld

***
PvdA & VVD willen van #Rotterdamse haven boegbeeld maken voor oorlog met meer wapentransport & militaire oefeningen ‘daar verzetten we ons fel tegen’, zegt Coskun, de fractievoorzitter vd lokale #SP, ’R'dam hoort bij vrede, niet bij #oorlog & escalatie.’ https://dagblad010.nl/Politiek/sp-er-coskun-de-haven-moet-geen-oorlogsknooppunt-worden-

***
CRS report: Hypersonic Weapons:Background and Issues for Congress (Updated February 11, 2025). https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25521933-hypersonicweaponsfeb112025/

***
The #Swiss government on Wednesday proposed #relaxing #restrictions on arms exports to try to bolster its domestic industry & security policy, a sensitive move for the neutral country which has blocked the re-export of its weapons and ammo to #Ukraine. https://www.globalbankingandfinance.com/SWISS-ARMS-63b651ed-d16f-461b-9ce9-5b3b7ce36201

***
#Baykar, a leading defence supplier based in #Turkey, has signed a deal with the Jakarta-based defence company Republikorp to build a #drone manufacturing plant in #Indonesia, according to a local newspaper.
https://www.agbi.com/manufacturing/2025/02/top-turkish-defence-firm-to-build-drones-in-indonesia/
https://jakartaglobe.id/business/turkish-defense-firm-baykar-inks-deal-to-build-drone-factory-in-indonesia

***
Westerse regeringen pakken graag uit met ‘democratische waarden’ & ‘mensenrechten’, schrijft @Ludodb van @VredeVZW . Maar de holheid en selectiviteit daarvan blijkt al lang uit de weigering om ook maar iets te veranderen aan het beleid tegenover #Israël. https://www.mo.be/opinie/onbegrijpelijk-dat-ons-land-israelische-wapens-importeert

February 11

***
A #Chinese stratospheric #airship with infrared detection systems could identify #stealth aircraft –like #F35– from nearly 2,000 km.

Such airships offer relatively low-cost observation even stealth of a $2 trn (acquisition & sustainment) F-35 evaporates. https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3298181/chinas-stratospheric-airship-can-detect-american-f-35-fighters-1800km-study

By the way the F-35 is a major weapon system to open the attack on Chinese soil as I wrote some years ago based on military information: F-35: crowbar to break Chinese border defences. https://stopwapenhandel.org/f-35-crowbar-to-break-chinese-border-defences/

***
#Thales and #Bharat Dynamics Ltd have signed an agreement for the initial supply of Laser Beam Riding Man Portable Air Defence systems to the #Indian MoD. The partnership will also boost #UK manufacturing, particularly at Thales’ Belfast. https://defence-industry.eu/thales-and-bharat-dynamics-ltd-to-supply-man-portable-air-defence-systems-to-india/

***
#Morocco strengthens military ties with Israel and has chosen #Israel’s #Elbit Systems as its main weapons supplier, deepening military ties amid growing arms trade, regional tensions and the role Elbit played in the ethnic cleansing and #genocide. https://www.globalvillagespace.com/morocco-strengthens-defense-ties-with-israel/

***
Amerikaanse minister maant Europa aan meer te investeren in defensie. https://www.hln.be/buitenland/amerikaanse-minister-maant-europa-aan-meer-te-investeren-in-defensie-gezond-verstand-zegt-dat-je-je-eigen-buurt-moet-verdedigen~a8cdac2b/

Nog meer?

Het gaat al gierend snel de hoogte in, ten koste van ....

***
Indian paper publishes articcle on poor quality of Chinese weaponry. Countries that have purchased Chinese military equipment have found themselves struggling with poor quality, malfunctions, and maintenance challenges. https://sundayguardianlive.com/top-five/chinese-weapons-are-failing-in-real-combat-a-global-embarrassment

***
US military research agency #DARPA is working on a project to modify red #blood cells to enhance soldiers' performance. The program, called "Red Blood Cell Factory," #RBC aims to insert active components into red blood cells.

https://www.darpa.mil/research/programs/rbc-factory

https://www.techno-science.net/en/news/the-us-military-wants-to-modify-soldiers-blood-to-enhance-their-performance-N26479.html

***
Het #Belgische leger zou tijdens de oorlog in Gaza nog altijd heel wat munitie en materiaal hebben aangekocht bij #Israëlische militaire industrie. Dat blijkt uit 'n onderzoek van VRT NWS. Het gaat onder meer over 109,5 ton #munitie & 'n #pantservoertuig. https://www.demorgen.be/snelnieuws/belgisch-leger-kocht-tijdens-oorlog-in-gaza-nog-munitie-en-materiaal-bij-israelische-bedrijven~bc81683a/

Belgian Army still buying Israeli ammunition during war in Gaza. https://www.brusselstimes.com/1436701/belgian-army-still-buying-israeli-ammunition-during-war-in-gaza

***
Win-win for the US military industry, isn't it?

The Trump admin is preparing a plan to increase #European allies' purchases of #US weapons for #Ukraine. This could be an alternative to direct US military assistance & a guarantee of stable arms supplies.
https://unn.ua/en/news/trump-plans-to-involve-europe-in-purchasing-american-weapons-for-ukraine

***
#France in ‘active talks’ to buy Indian rocket #launcher systems. The Indian made #Pinaka #rocket system with a range of up to 90km was shown to a French delegation in #India around three months ago. https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/south-asia/article/3298133/france-advanced-talks-buy-indian-rocket-launcher-system-indian-official-says

***
A Kyrgyzstani has been detained in the #US on suspicion of illegal export of firearms. The website of the US Dep of Justice says (https://www.justice.gov/usao-edny/pr/international-arms-dealer-charged-exporting-us-firearms-russia). The suspect was detained on charges of illegally exporting firearms to #Russia through #Kyrgyzstan. https://24.kg/english/319543_Kyrgyzstani_detained_in_US_on_suspicion_of_illegal_arms_export/

***
See what #EU is preparing for us and for the military industry, such as 'the mass production of #kamikaze #drones.' https://www.euractiv.com/section/defence/news/eus-2025-defence-agenda/

***
Basta!

Italian civil society mobilisation in the “No more favours for arms dealers!” campaign continues its pressure on parliamentarians to prevent the reduction of arms export controls (and its problematic consequences). https://retepacedisarmo.org/english/2025/the-modification-for-the-worse-of-law-185-90-on-arms-exports-resumes-in-the-house-civil-society-action-against-new-favours-for-armed-interests-continues/

***
#Paragon has cut off #Italy, where it has 2 clients, from its #spyware effective immediately, after the Italian government failed to address claims it spied on #journalists and #activists critical of far-right PM #Meloni by breaching WhatsApp accounts. https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2025-02-06/ty-article/.premium/israeli-spyware-firm-paragon-kills-italys-access-after-journalists-targeted/00000194-da39-d390-a1b6-ffbb3bdf0000

February 10

***
Arming etnic cleansing

Munitions, Guidance Kits, Fuzes, and Munitions Support for Israel
https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/israel-munitions-guidance-kits-fuzes-and-munitions-support

The notoriojs AGM-114 Hellfire Missiles and related equipment for Israel
https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/israel-agm-114-hellfire-missiles

Combines value $7.41 billion

AOAV condemns U.S. sale of massive ordnance air blast (MOAB) bomb to Israel
https://aoav.org.uk/2025/aoav-condemns-u-s-sale-of-massive-ordnance-air-blast-moab-bomb-to-israel/

***
Arming a gross human rights violator

The #US State Department has cleared #Egypt’s two foreign military sales requests worth approximately $929 million combined.

https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/egypt-antps-78-long-range-radar

https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/egypt-fast-missile-craft-modernization

***
Actie tegen militarisering

De Twentse #carnavalsverenigingen De Keistenen (Agelo), N Lesten Stuiver (Rossum) & De Knollentrekkers (Weerselo) slaan zaterdag de handen ineen tijdens 'n "ludiek" protest. Ze willen geen grootschalig #munitiedepot van Defensie. https://www.hartvannederland.nl/politiek/demonstratie/artikelen/carnavalsverenigingen-protesteren-tegen-komst-munitiedepot

***
Rule of Law?

Trump administration is not complying with a temporary restraining order barring a freeze on funding for federal grant and aid programs. A coalition of states told a Rhode Island federal judge Friday, asking the court to enforce its order.

https://www.law360.com/aerospace/articles/2295226

***
The US #missile_defence_agency gathers ideas for Trump’s proposed “Iron Dome for America” and hopes to make progress on some within the next 2 years.

#MDA was already planning to spend hundreds of millions of #dollars on THAAD, Aegis & SM-3. Just a start.

https://www.airandspaceforces.com/missile-defense-agency-iron-dome/

***
Who cares?

UK Ministers and senior officials protected arms deals facilitating death and horror in Gaza and Yemen. I urge my former colleagues to resist them.

Britain’s system for controlling arms exports is broken, former diplomat claims.
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/feb/09/uk-foreign-office-war-crimes-arms-gaza-yemen

February 9

***
As the #Sudanese civil war goes on, #Russia & #Iran are fueling the conflict with arms. They supply the Sudanese Armed Forces with guns, drones, fuel & parts for fighter jets as it battles the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The #UAE is arming the RSF. https://adf-magazine.com/2025/02/weapons-fuel-deliveries-from-russia-iran-inflame-sudans-civil-war/

***
Nederland wil de macht van #AI-bedrijven uit VS en China indammen en werkt samen met Frankrijk en Duitsland aan een voorstel om de AI-industrie onder de Europese Digital Markets Act (DMA) te brengen, ingesteld om de macht van grote digitale platforms te reguleren en
eerlijke concurrentie in de digitale markt te waarborgen.

Het plan wordt komende week aangekondigd op een internationale AI-conferentie in Parijs.
https://fd.nl/tech-en-innovatie/1545054/nederland-wil-europese-grip-op-amerikaanse-ai-bedrijven-versterken

February 8

***
Approximately 70% of the weapons and military equipment used on the battlefield in Ukraine are provided by international assistance, reported First Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Lt General Ivan Havryliuk. https://nikvesti.com/en/news/public/301038-ministry-of-defence-weapons-front-supplied

***
The Navalistul #trade_union on Friday morning asked for the intervention of the embassy of the Netherlands so that the management of the #Damen Shipyards #Mangalia takes responsibility and finds solutions to save the largest shipyard in #Romania. https://www.daynews24.ro/navalistul-trade-union-askes-the-netherlands-embassy-to-solve-the-situation-at-mangalia-shipyard/

***
#Oekraïne kan op korte termijn gebruik maken van 'n mobiel #onderzoekslaboratorium om oorlogsmisdaden te onderzoeken. Nederlands MoD doneert hiervoor een Joint Deployable Exploitation and Analysis Laboratory. JDEAL is een samenwerkingsproject van het #EDA. https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2025/02/06/mobiel-laboratorium-helpt-oekraine-oorlogsmisdaden-te-onderzoeken

***
And the winners are ...

...#Saab and #Kongsberg kicked off the European military industry earnings season, posting another year of record sales growth and orders in 2024, as governments across the continent continue to ramp up military spending. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/02/07/saab-kongsberg-again-post-record-years-on-european-defense-splurge/

***
Preparation for war

#Dutch MoD is investing in steel to operate at NATO’s eastern flank. That means adding tanks & armoured vehicles, but also expanding a fleet of #railway wagons that allows Dutch military planners to rush armour & supplies across Europe. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/02/07/dutch-military-adds-railway-steel-to-rush-troops-to-natos-east-flank/

February 7

***
Hoe klinkt het als je veiligheid verknalt wordt?

Wat zijn de effecten op woongenot of bedrijf als er dagelijks F-35's overkomen en hoe klinkt dat?

Een groep ging met de bus naar Leeuwarden om dat te onderzoeken. Veel van hen wonen bij Lelystad Airport. https://www.omroepflevoland.nl/nieuws/414880/luisteren-naar-straaljagers-in-leeuwarden-lelystedelingen-schrikken-van-geluid-f-35

***
Fact checking Mark Rutte en zijn beweringen over de Russische dreiging. Met @WendelaVries
https://www.bnnvara.nl/joop/artikelen/factchecking-mark-rutte-en-zijn-beweringen-over-de-russische-dreiging

February 6

***
Damen signed a partnership agreement with South Africa's Dep. of Trade & Industry. This focuses on local industrial participation/investment, exports, R&D, tech transfer etc.

Since 2020 #Damen is involved in SA's Defence Industrial Participation programme. https://www.defensemirror.com/news/38755/Damen_Shipyards_Signs_Strategic_Partnership_Agreement_with_South_Africa

***
Equal rights down the drain in favour of white male dominance (yellowish hair/too big ego's no problem if the colour & sex is simply right).

Is this really happing on the military centre stage of an ally of Europe? When do we cut ties or is the same coming this way?

#Resist!

Retweet with comment @MilitaryTimes: West Point shuts down clubs for minorities, women amid DEI purge https://militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2025/02/05/west-point-shuts-down-clubs-for-minorities-women-amid-dei-purge/

***
Russia has long been a major supplier of arms to MENA-countries. A weakened Russian arms industry could lead them to look elsewhere. For Gulf states (with balanced arms deals between the West & Russia) this may create stronger ties with US & Eur suppliers. https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/russias-economic-meltdown-strategic-implications-for-mena/

February 5

***
Campagne F-35 NEE! gelanceerd

Gisteren lanceerde een 30-tal bewoners- en natuurorganisaties en (recreatie)ondernemers vanuit Groningen en Noord-Drenthe de campagne ‘F35-NEE!’.

https://www.nmfdrenthe.nl/nieuws/campagne-f-35-nee-gelanceerd/

***
#Dutch companies will sell military materiel, knowledge, or services at the Abu Dhabi military fair #IDEX2025 (Ten Cate, TNO, Robin Radar Sys). In the interest of peace & secuity in the Middle East for all, or just for some while violating that of others? https://www.idexuae.ae/exhibit/exhibitor-list/#4923

***
Russia, still the key partner for India when it comes to arms imports, but there are signs that dependence is gradually falling. While 36% of Indian arms exports came from Russia from 2019-23, the figure was 46% for 2017-21 and 69% for 2012-16. https://www.dw.com/en/how-will-germany-india-multi-billion-dollar-submarine-deal-impact-russia/a-71454656

***
The militarisation of the EU will drag it into an arms race that produces losers. The EU should strive to be a force of solidarity, with a foreign policy based on cooperation over competition (only possible if it breaks free of its subservience to the US). https://www.tni.org/en/article/a-transatlantic-bargain

***
Some policies will not change under Trump. He seeks Congressional approval for $1 billion arms sale to #Israel. This deal includes 4,700 #bombs exceeding 450 kg, worth over $700m, alongside #Caterpillar #armoured #bulldozers valued at more than $300m. https://en.safa.news/post/3385/Trump-Seeks-Congressional-Approval-for-1-Billion-Arms-Sale-to-Israel

***
Time for #action?

The launch of #DSEI #Germany is announced. The arms fair will be organised by Deutsche Messe & Clarion, the last also organises DSEI in the UK and Japan. DSEI Germany will be held in 2 years! 19-22/01/27 at the Messegelände in #Hannover. https://www.adsadvance.co.uk/dsei-germany-event-launched.html

February 4

***
Uit blog: 'n Stijging van 2% BBP (de huidige doelstelling) naar 5% BBP betekent bijna $600 mjd extra aan militaire uitgaven. Militaire uitgaven van 3,7% van 't BBP betekent grofweg $330 mjd extra van de Europese NAVO-leden naar krijgsmacht & bewapening. https://stopwapenhandel.org/fact-checking-mark-rutte/

For same text in English see: https://stopwapenhandel.org/turbo-charged-arms-production-for-protection-or-for-power-and-profit/

Tekst aangepast tot ingezonden artikel, 'Veiligheid of wapenwedloop? Fact checking Mark Rutte'. Hier ➡️ https://www.doorbraak.eu/veiligheid-of-wapenwedloop-fact-checking-mark-rutte/

***
Retweet @IISS_org: While the sale of armed UAVs has been high-profile and lucrative, Turkish industry has also enjoyed success in other domains. Read the latest analysis by Tom Waldwyn: https://www.iiss.org/online-analysis/military-balance/2025/01/turkiyes-defence-industry-charts-a-course-for-european-growth/

***
Heated conflict on who is heading #Ukraine's Defense Procurement Agency #DPA.

"Ukraine's arms procurement chief asks #Zelensky to 'stop the destruction' of the agency"
https://kyivindependent.com/bezrukova-asks-zelensky-to-intervene-in-arms-procurement-dispute/

***
Role of #UAE in #Sudan: "As the RSF perpetrates genocidal attacks on civilians in Darfur and other regions, Abu Dhabi is delivering #arms to the militia. Meanwhile, unscrupulous companies #smuggle Sudanese gold into Emirati markets, fueling the #conflict." https://www.foreignaffairs.com/sudan/uaes-secret-war-sudan

The UAE’s engagement in security dynamics in Africa has oftentimes remained much more direct, establishing military outposts and interfering in conflicts in the Horn of Africa, Libya and Sahel regions. https://www.ips-journal.eu/topics/foreign-and-security-policy/the-uaes-ever-expanding-footprint-in-africa-8063/

***
The Nigerian Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle, stated that the Defence Industries Corporation of #Nigeria #DICON, a parastatal under the defence ministry, is working towards producing 300 million rounds of #ammunition. https://www.withinnigeria.com/news/2025/02/01/defense-ministry-to-manufacture-300-million-rounds-of-ammunition-says-minister/

***
The 4th #Damen #naval vessel PNS Yamama arrived in #Pakistan. The Yamama is a multipurpose medium-sized offshore patrol vessel equipped with a self-protection and terminal defence system, electronic warfare, capabilities against surface and air targets. https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/865883-fourth-offshore-patrol-vessel-pns-yamama-arrives-in-karachi

***
#Israel-#Serbia ties intensify: #arms sales from Belgrade to IDF shoot up by 3,000%.

Deliveries from Serbia spiked after Gaza War broke; Presidents Herzog & Vucic met 2 x in recent months, Serbia signed massive Israeli arms deal and uses Israeli spy tech.

https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2025-01-28/ty-article/.premium/israel-serbia-ties-intensify-arms-sales-from-belgrade-to-idf-shoot-up-by-3-000/00000194-a962-d364-a99f-a977ff8c0000

***
Retweet @TurkishMinuteTM: Turkey to deploy ‘defense industry attachés’ globally to boost arms exports. https://www.turkishminute.com/2025/02/03/turkey-to-deploy-defense-industry-attaches-globaly-to-boost-arms-export/

***
Veel van wat #wapenhandel deskundige Klomp (Nl Defensie Academie) over Nl #wapenproductie en Europese exportcontrole zegt, herken ik uit teksten van @CTWnl maar die organisatie voegt daar altijd wel de #ethisch/politieke redenen voor die controle aan toe.

https://www.bnr.nl/nieuws/nieuws-politiek/10566098/buy-europe-first-maar-nog-veel-haken-en-ogen-aan-eigen-defensie-industrie

***
#Raytheon/#RTX resolves export control violations (defective pricing (False Claims Act #FCA allegations), violations of Foreign Corrupt Practices Act #FCPA, Traffic in Arms Regulations #ITAR & infractions of Arms Export Control Act #AECA) and pays $950m. https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/defense-contractor-resolves-doj-and-sec-5249594/

***
Senior officials from S. #Korea and #Poland have held talks and reaffirmed their commitment to bilateral #arms #cooperation despite Seoul's martial law #turmoil, the state arms procurement agency said Tuesday. https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2025/02/113_391502.html

My tweets for January

Latest on top (updated regularly):
(https://twitter.com/martinbroek)

January 31

***
#UAE based #EDGE, has signed a LoI with the #Hungarian MoD during the visit of Hungary’s PM Orbán, to the UAE. The agreement, focused on defence innovation and R&D, sets the stage for contracts and highlights the possibility of future collaboration. https://defensehere.com/en/edge-to-collaborate-with-hungary/

***
Andrews (Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in #Myanmar) said action by member states including targeted sanctions and a crackdown on the arms trade by Singapore have contributed to a 1/3 drop in the volume of weapons and military supplies the junta has been able to purchase through the formal banking system since the year ending March 2023.

Andrews urges support for people of Myanmar as they heroically oppose military oppression.

https://reliefweb.int/report/myanmar/un-expert-urges-support-people-myanmar-they-heroically-oppose-military-oppression

***
Het geld klotst toch tegen de plinten!

Netherlands to buy Rheinmetall anti-drone cannons in $1.35 billion buy.

The ability to protect deployed troops against drones is considered a prerequisite for land combat operations in the future.

https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/01/30/netherlands-to-buy-rheinmetall-anti-drone-cannons-in-135-billion-buy/

***
Ploughshare report on #F35 production: "aims to bring clarity to the global production chain behind the F-35 aircraft, with a specific focus on the Israeli F-35I, and to assess the implications for compliance with international arms control frameworks." https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63e066081ef50cb16a3f4157/679ba3e22945449fe7a7167e_F35I%20Report%20Jan.25.pdf

Table continues with US companies

January 30

***
To underline the urgency of high military budgets, NATO-sg Rutte claimed in the EP that Russia is producing in 3 months more weaponry than all NATO countries together in a year. An unlikely figure which sounds like an alternative fact. So let's fact check. https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2025/01/turbo-charged-arms-production-for.html

Table from blog, made on annual information provided by NATO (https://nato.int/nato_static_fl2014/assets/pdf/2024/6/pdf/240617-def-exp-2024-en.pdf). Why are the facts often so different from the given analyses?

***

Military Spending Has Almost Doubled Since the Early 90s https://www.statista.com/chart/33860/development-of-global-military-expenditure/

***
"The landscape of the #Arctic region has been transformed by global warming ... this has unveiled new routes for trade and shipping."

#Military and foreign policy cicles are reacting to it, like in this meeting: https://eco-cdn.iqpc.com/eco/files/event_content/arctic-security-2025-agendaTgZtRyrOTu76ygJAEbbYP4y0HNAXJltcnhY1HDJk.pdf. Even #Frontex is on the speakers list.

***
"The manufacturing of #war equipment does not help increase a country's growth potential. Development comes from productive investment, not from #arms," said Panetta, a member of the European Central Bank's governing council & #Italy's central bank chief. https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/military-spending-doesnt-help-long-term-growth-italys-central-bank-chief-says-2025-01-16/

***
Trade union members at #Damen Shipyards Mangalia #DSMa, #Romania organised a protest on January 28 following the company's decision to lay off 263 of a total of some 1,200 employees. They see a military future for the wharf. https://www.romania-insider.com/workers-protest-mangalia-shipyard-january-2025

***

#WHNS. #Troepen naar het #oosten? Dan moeten ze zich eerst door #Nederland persen. NRC heft een lang artikel over de Nederlandse rol in het War Host Nation Support programma met o.a. aandacht voor #Vlissingen, #Rotterdam en de #Eemshaven hierin. https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2025/01/29/troepen-naar-het-oosten-dan-moeten-ze-zich-eerst-door-nederland-persen-a4881279

January 29

***
Translated from Catalan "The funds allocated to European militarization have multiplied. Total European military spending is the second largest in the world in volume, behind the USA. A little further away, there is China and, much further away, Russia"

Retweet with comment @CentreDelas: "Els fons destinats a la militarització europea s’han multiplicat. La despesa militar europea total és la segona més important del món en volum, darrere dels EUA. Una mica més lluny, hi ha la Xina i, molt més lluny, Rússia" https://www.elpuntavui.cat/politica/article/17-politica/2501465-no-ens-podem-resignar-que-el-mon-vagi-cap-enrere.html

***
#UAE's #EDGE proposed integrating systems from the US Freedom-class combat ship into the EDGE-Fincantieri FCX30 frigate for #Greece. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63255-uae-edges-bid-for-greece-can-the-fcx30-frigate-outshine-its-rivals

EDGE controls 51% of a JV, giving it the right to regionally produce #Fincantierri's FCX30 ships. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/02/uaes-edge-group-and-italian-shipbuilder-fincantieri-stand-up-32-billion-jv/

***
Militaire activiteiten richten grote schade aan, ook aan natuur & milieu. Nu de Nederlandse militaire sector meer ruimte krijgt en de budgetten stijgen, neemt die schade toe. Ondertussen wekt de krijgsmacht de indruk bij te dragen aan natuurbescherming.

https://stopwapenhandel.org/natuur-onder-vuur/

***
Are they never informed about the #constroversial role of #Turkish #Bayraktars on several continents at #Italy’s #Leonardo? Or do they just don't care?

Both are discussing a team-up which could see Leonardo’s electronics/radar mounted on Baykar’s #drones

https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/01/24/leonardo-drone-maker-baykar-seek-synergies-on-battlefield-sensors/

***
Turkey expects to strike a $6bn agreement with Saudi's for the sale of warships, tanks and missiles. The deal may include Saudi Arabia joining Turkey’s fighter jet development project.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-27/turkey-aims-for-6-billion-weapons-deal-with-saudi-arabia?embedded-checkout=true

https://www.agbi.com/economy/2025/01/saudi-arabia-in-talks-for-6bn-turkish-arms-deal/

***
What does rise of #AI firm #DeepSeek mean for US-China #TechWar, and the race for talent?

After the company took tech world by surprise with powerful, low-cost AI model, new questions are raised about US containment strategy.

https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3296477/what-does-rise-ai-firm-deepseek-mean-us-china-tech-war-and-race-talent

***
NAVO het land in, nu vrijheid op het spel staat

Al weer een angst aanjagend bericht over de #NAVO-#propaganda tour door Nederland. Staan ze voor vrijheid? Of voor het verdedigen van de belangen van de elite en wapen- en IT-fabrikanten?
https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2025/01/28/navo-het-land-in-nu-vrijheid-op-het-spel-staat

***
In an article on US-EU links and troubles this was written about weaponry:

Even on the military side, the US has benefited from Europe’s dependency. More than a ¼ of US arms exports went to Europe in the period 2019-2023, up from 11% in 2014–18. https://carnegieendowment.org/europe/strategic-europe/2025/01/europeans-dont-have-to-be-the-losers-trump-thinks-they-are

***
Minister’s backing for defence firms after student protests.

In a letter seen by The Times, the defence secretary John Healey warned universities they must help protect recruiters from intimidation at careers fairs.
https://www.thetimes.com/uk/defence/article/john-healey-defence-firms-backing-intimidation-university-c8gh76jgc

***
#Morocco has deepened its weapons cooperation with #Turkey to modernize its military arsenal and strengthen military capabilities. Rabat recently hosted a delegation from Turkey’s #Aselsan to discuss potential collaborations on local arms production. https://thedefensepost.com/2025/01/28/turkey-morocco-arms-collaboration/

Turkish defence firm Aselsan has secured a $50.7-million contract to provide the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces with the Koral electronic warfare system. https://caliber.az/en/post/turkish-aselsan-secures-50-million-deal-to-boost-morocco-s-electronic-warfare-capabilities

January 28

***
#Rheinmetall has been accused of using complex mechanisms to bypass international laws & sanctions, particularly by re-exporting weapons to conflict zones such as Ukraine & Israel...raising questions about the need for increased oversight by SA government https://www.iol.co.za/sundayindependent/analysis/uncovering-rheinmetalls-controversial-arms-trade-practices-in-south-africa-850c37a0-989b-423e-88be-34b7474965d1

***
Will S. Korea’s politcial developmetns cause problems, or savings, for Poland’s large weapon buys? Warshaw has announced $16bn+ in weapon buys from S. Korean firms since 2022. Those deals could be impacted by the uncertainty around S. Korea's government.

“the political earthquake that was the attempted coup and its consequences must have an impact on the institutions and the people functioning in them. Let us recall that the Korean MoD was headed by a close confidant of the compromised president.” He isn't anymore. https://breakingdefense.com/2025/01/will-s-koreas-drama-cause-problems-or-savings-for-polands-large-weapon-buys/

January 27

***
As #arms sales continue to rise, AOAV’s reported data on explosive violence serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences. Without stronger rules the cycle of #violence and profit will only intensify, leaving countless lives shattered in its wake. https://aoav.org.uk/2025/record-arms-sales-fuel-global-explosive-violence-surge-aoav-reports/

***
#NATO is initiating the exchange of top-secret info with the military industry and the #EU, detailing the weapons and equipment members need to #produce.

https://euromaidanpress.com/2025/01/26/bloomberg-nato-plans-defense-industry-access-to-secret-military-standards-as-russian-threats-grow/

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-26/nato-plans-to-share-classified-military-information-with-industry-eu

Watch out they are planning a hundreds of billion rise of ME. Who will pay?

***
#Pakistan urges #UNSC action to end crisis in #DRCongo. Since the renewed offensives by #Rwadan-backed rebels—#M23—near Goma on Jan 23, hundreds of thousands of people have been forced to flee from conflict zones, with relief capacity already overstretched.https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/864706-pakistan-urges-effective-unsc-action-to-end-crisis-in-dr-congo

VN-chef António Guterres riep zondag de #Rwandese strijdkrachten op zich terug te trekken uit de Democratische Republiek #Congo en geen steun meer te verlenen aan #M23-strijders die oprukken naar de belangrijke Congolese stad Goma. https://www.gooieneemlander.nl/buitenland/vn-baas-roept-rwanda-op-troepen-terug-te-trekken-uit-congo/36060942.html

Niet de grondstoffen maar militaire bondgenootschapspolitiek reden voor oplaaiend conflict.
   Het Congolese leger werkt samen met de FDLR, Rwandese rebellen & milities die betrokken waren bij de genocide van 1994. Rwanda geeft forse militaire steun aan M23. https://www.mo.be/opinie/de-congocrisis-reikt-verder-dan-conflictmineralen

***
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi of Pakistan has stated that anyone taking up arms against Pakistan would be dealt with an iron hand. https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/864573

To make this possible besides China, also Germany, Italy, the Dutch, Turkey & US delivered new weapons to Karachi 2020-24.

Janaury 26

***
De laatste jaren versoepelen veel Europese landen de wapenexportregels met 't argument dat dit nodig is om de wapenindustrie te laten floreren. Beleidsveranderingen maken export mogelijk maken naar landen in oorlog of met 'n slechte mensenrechtensituatie. https://stopwapenhandel.org/militarisering-van-europa-ten-koste-van-controle-op-de-wapenexport/

January 25

***
How our ally in #Riyad imports #Russian arms.

Leaked documents offer a look into #Russia's efforts to sell weapons abroad to generate cash and grow influence. #Saudi_arabia

https://kyivindependent.com/investigation-how-saudi-arabia-helps-russia-profit-from-arms-exports-amid-war/

Sanctioned Russian Firms Sold $2B Air Defense System to Saudi Arabia, Leaked Documents Show

Russia has been exporting arms to countries including Saudi Arabia, bolstering its economy after a barrage of sanctions followed its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. https://www.occrp.org/en/scoop/sanctioned-russian-firms-sold-2b-air-defense-system-to-saudi-arabia-leaked-documents-show

***
28 jan: Stop Wapenhandel presenteert: Vrijmarkt voor oorlogswapens. Hoe de wapenindustrie de exportcontrole ondermijnt en wat we er tegen kunnen doen. Met @andrewfeinstein (@ShadowWorldInv1), @martijndekker Jip van Dort (Pax) en @WendelaVries (@CTWnl). https://www.globalinfo.nl/nieuws/50993/

***
Armoured-vehicle makers #KNDS and #Rheinmetall and defence-electronics firm #Thales signed the shareholder agreement for the project company that will develop a future tank #MBT for #Germany and #France, moving a step closer to starting actual work. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/01/24/knds-rheinmetall-thales-move-ahead-on-next-generation-tank-project/

***
#Dutch PM Schoof told visiting Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang why his government has introduced tighter restrictions on exports of #ASML's #chipmaking tools to #China under pressure from the US - a policy harming ASML and that Beijing has objected to. https://www.globalbankingandfinance.com/USA-CHINA-CHIPS-NETHERLANDS-899e60d3-ba4e-4222-970e-44d3f650268c

***
#Indonesia & India will discuss boosting military ties, incl. a potential sale to Jakarta of #supersonic cruise missiles build by a #Russian-#Indian JV. The deal may materialise during the visit of the notorious President Prabow's visit to New Delhi. https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/indonesia-talks-buy-russian-indian-missile-president-prabowo-visits-delhi-2025-01-24/

***
South #Korea's #arms exports decreased for a 2nd consecutive year, officials said. The country's annual arms exports came in at $9.5bn last year following the $13.5bn in 2023. In '22, the country's arms exports hit the highest of $17.3 bn, reports Yonhap. https://www.sakshipost.com/news/south-koreas-arms-exports-expected-rebound-year-371253

***
In FY 2024, #US arms exports reached a record high of over $318 bn. According to a recent report by the US Department of State, there was a record #increase in US #arms exports, bringing total sales to $318.7 bn, which is 29% higher than in FY 2023. https://www.state.gov/fiscal-year-2024-u-s-arms-transfers-and-defense-trade/

***
Two #US lawmakers said Friday that the United Arab Emirates #UAE has #violated its promises and kept arming #Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, which Washington has accused of genocide. @ChrisVanHollen @SaraJacobsCA https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-jacobs-confirm-uae-providing-weapons-to-rsf-in-sudan-in-contradiction-to-its-assurances-to-us

***
PULSE is a new joint venture launched by #UAE’s #EDGE Group and #Spanish company #Indra. Report behind paywall. https://www.tacticalreport.com/in-depth/63249

***
#India providing Armenia weaponry, #Pakistan finalizing arms trade agreement with #Azerbaijan, says Khawaja Asif (the Pakistani Defence Minister).

He wants to enhance ties through cooperation in arms trade, military infrastructure and intelligence sharing. https://24newshd.tv/24-Jan-2025/pakistan-finalizing-arms-trade-agreement-with

***
The South African #military #industry can be a growth engine as promoted by a consultant of Orion Consulting providing services to the Aerospace & Defence related industry. https://www.defenceweb.co.za/featured/stuck-record-the-south-african-defence-industry-can-be-a-south-african-growth-engine/

Sure more human security focussed economic activities can do better. #SouthAfrica

***
At least 8 workers were killed in a blast at #Bhandara Ordnance Factory (+/- 800 km east of Mumbai), Indian government officials said. Several others still trapped inside the building. The explosion hcaused the factory’s roof to collapse. https://thedefensepost.com/2025/01/25/indian-munitions-factory-blast/

January 24

***
#AI is likely to be a priority within the #Trump administration. That is for strategic as well as economic reasons. The government’s “north star”, as one tech insider in #Washington puts it, will be how to beat #China in the AI war. https://www.economist.com/business/2025/01/22/a-500bn-investment-plan-says-a-lot-about-trumps-ai-priorities

***
#Belgian region #Wallonia arms sales to #UAE: Three export licences suspended by top court. https://www.brusselstimes.com/1388525/wallonia-arms-sales-to-uae-three-export-licences-suspended-by-top-court

***
#NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, the voice of his US master, on Thursday urged the US to keep supplying #Ukraine with weapons to fight Russia’s invasion and said he was sure #Europe was ready to pay the bill. https://humenglish.com/latest/nato-chief-rutte-says-europe-will-pay-for-us-arms-for-ukraine/

***
EU hawks call for unrealistic military spending, European Conservative (allegedly linked to Viktor Orbán) reports. https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news/eu-hawks-call-for-unrealistic-military-spending/

***
#Israeli firms SMARTSHOOTER (https://www.smart-shooter.com/) and HevenDrones (https://hevendrones.com/) have announced a strategic partnership to equip logistics drones with advanced #robotic #weapon systems. #drones https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hevendrones-partners-with-smartshooter-for-drone-defense-302352140.html

***
#Trump’s 90-day foreign aid suspension order does not impact weapon deliveries to #Ukraine, #Pentagon says. #US #MoD https://kyivindependent.com/trumps-90-day-foreign-add-suspension-order-does-not-impact-weapon-deliveries-to-ukraine-pentagon-says/

***
Raids and detentions in #Ukraine #arms #smuggling crackdown. Police on the afternoon of Jan 23 said they had carried out nearly 700 searches, detained 22 people and notified another 38 they are suspects in an #illicit #weapons smuggling probe. https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/raids-and-detentions-in-ukraine-arms-smuggling-crackdown

January 23

***
#Agitprop door BuZa. 28 januari start de NAVO door Nederland-tour, 'n tour over vrede & veiligheid langs wat steden in #Nederland. Dit rondreizende programma vindt plaats in de aanloop naar de #NAVO-top '25, op 24 en 25 juni in het World Forum in Den Haag. https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2025/01/23/start-van-navo-door-nederland-tour

***

Retweet @andrewfeinstein (posted table without comment on military support bij US to Israel and the War on Terror since the programs started).It results in a total of $30 trillion. 

***
Retweet @keesamok: Greenpeace heeft de militaire krachtsverhoudingen door experts laten onderzoeken - De uitspraken van Rutte zijn niet onderbouwd - Wie viel Aufrüstung ist sinnvoll? https://oekologiepolitik.de/2025/01/20/wie-viel-aufruestung-ist-sinnvoll/

***
1/2 EU lanceert IRIS². Betrokken bij dit project zijn: Thales Alenia Space, OHB, Airbus Defence and Space, Telespazio, Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Hisdesat en Thales SIX. https://businessam.be/eu-iris%C2%B2-veilige-satellietverbindingen/ Eerdere tweet over IRIS en militaire deel, zie hieronder.

De #EU zet €10,6 miljard opzij voor #IRIS². Dat acroniem staat voor Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by #Satellite. https://itdaily.be/nieuws/netwerk/eu-10-miljard-euro-iris/ The system will support surveillance (eg #borders), as well as security and #defence. https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-space/iris2-secure-connectivity_en

January 22

***
Retweet @Intel_Online: In a bid to safeguard French defence contracts and prospects with Jakarta, President Emmanuel Macron has invited his Indonesian counterpart, Prabowo Subianto, to attend this year's Bastille Day celebrations in Paris.https://www.intelligenceonline.com/international-dealmaking/2025/01/21/paris-sends-bastille-day-invite-to-safeguard-defence-prospects-with-jakarta,110365172-art

***
Antropologe Molendijk: "We hanteren toch een soort sprookjesnarratief: goed en kwaad, helden en schurken, heel binair." Ook onze ideeën over een 'schone oorlog' zijn te eenzijdig. "We hebben het over drones alsof er teddyberen uit die wapens zouden komen". https://www.nporadio1.nl/nieuws/wetenschap-techniek/4269a47f-d5c4-4a1b-b660-ec380a5a19e1/wat-betekent-oorlogstechnologie-voor-militaire-en-burgerbevolking

***
#Cyprus has been incorporated into the #US Defence Security Cooperation Agency’s Foreign Military Sales #FMS programme, the Excess Defence Articles #EDA programme, & will be allocated resources under the US’ ‘Title 10’ security assistance provisions.

https://cyprus-mail.com/2025/01/19/cyprus-deepens-us-military-ties

#Turkey has condemned a US decision allowing #Cyprus to purchase US arms and acquire surplus military equipment, a move Washington says promotes stability in the eastern Mediterranean. https://www.turkishminute.com/2025/01/17/ankara-slams-us-move-to-allow-arms-sales-to-cyprus5/amp/

***
#India’s interest in #Eurodrone builds off a statement signed with Germany, October 2024, to deepen military cooperation and which includes a “focus on tech collaboration, manufacturing/co-production and co-development of defence platforms and equipment.” https://breakingdefense.com/2025/01/india-joins-eurodrone-effort-as-observer-nation/

***
In 2024 #Germany approved #arms xports vallued €13.33 bn - more than ever before. €8.15bn, well over half of this went to #Ukraine.

The figures are based on an answer from the Min of Economics to a question from BSW MP @SevimDagdelen.

Ukraine was Singapore with €1.21bn. It was followed by Algeria (€558.7m), the USA (€319.9m) and Turkey (€230.8m).

Controversial deliveries to Turkey at highest level since 2006. Even more controversial: arms exports to Israel. https://www.bluewin.ch/en/news/international/133-billion-euros-arms-exports-rise-to-record-level-2530120.html

January 21

***
Illegal arms manufacturing has become a serious regional security threat in Sub-Saharan Africa,

manifested through increased violence, crime, and political instability. This study examines the

driving forces and its consequences. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/388174700_The_Growing_Threat_of_Illegal_Arms_Manufacturing_in_Sub-Saharan_Africa_A_Significant_Concern

***
Data analytics giant Palantir Technologies is in advanced discussions to invest in Shield AI, a significant move that could reshape the autonomous Drone-industrie. The potential investment is part of a broader $200 million funding round that would value the AI drone startup at approximately $5 billion.

The investment talks, first reported by The Information, represent a growing convergence between Silicon Valley’s technology sector and the defense industry, particularly in autonomous systems development.

The funding round brings together an impressive consortium of investors. Other potential participants include aerospace giants Airbus, L3Harris Technologies, and Lockheed Martin, alongside venture capital firms Andreessen Horowitz, Point72, and Riot Ventures.

https://dronexl.co/nl/2025/01/20/palantir-investment-drone-maker-shield-ai/

January 20

***
The #Netherlands has signed a huge contract with Israeli arms maker #Elbit, despite a Dutch court decision barring #F35 parts to #Israel over the Gaza War. The deal was closed despite strong criticism by the #Dutch parliament, reports Haaretz. https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2025-01-20/ty-article/.premium/netherlands-restricts-f-35-spare-parts-to-israel-but-buys-israeli-weapons-systems/00000194-82d5-d57c-a597-a3df32650000

Dutch military policy isn't often in the international press, but this was even noticed on Sri Lanka.

Netherlands Signs $175 Million Arms Deal with Israeli Firm Elbit https://slguardian.org/netherlands-signs-175-million-arms-deal-with-israeli-firm-elbit/

***
Bristol City Council in the UK has passed a motion calling for divestment from companies linked to Israeli war crimes in Gaza and the arms trade, marking a significant milestone for the Palestine solidarity movement. https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20250120-uks-bristol-council-votes-for-divesting-from-companies-linked-to-israel-war-crimes/

***
Came across this music: We Began This Quilt There: I. Uluhaimalama. Composed: Leilehua Lanzilotti Performed: Ethel Featuring: Allison Loggins-hull Based on text by the last queen of #Hawaii (before it was annexed by the #USA). https://leilehualanzilotti.com/we-began-this-quilt-there

https://youtu.be/1mWB4ATZlM4?si=xcfu3-gaqI8TkSLb

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/59e4eb2464b05f0cfcc0e79c/t/66ce3a0083ff967981f5c648/1724791305027/DSL-92281+booklet+v5.pdf

***
Arms export control is helping gross human rights violators to military tech?

#Egyptian Min. of Military Prod. #MoMP is in talks with #Rheinmetall for transfer of technology and localization agreements for LUNA (https://www.rheinmetall.com/en/products/uncrewed-systems/luna) #drones (UAV). https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63235

***
If #Turkey is bombing its neighbour (https://hawarnews.com/en/turkish-occupation-warplanes-bomb-serrin-villages-and-tishrin-dam-vicinity) it is time to sell it more fighter aircraft?

Turkish paper on why #Germany reviews sale of 40 #Eurofighter jets to Ankara. https://www.turkiyetoday.com/turkiye/germany-reviews-sale-of-40-eurofighter-jets-to-turkiye-108152/

***
#Ukraine aims to spend a record $35 #billion on #weapons #production in 2025, according to Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. The Ukrainian government intends to provide $17 billion, while the rest may be financed by #allies. https://kyivindependent.com/ammunition-used-by-russians-halved-syrskyi-says/

***
#Russia's #ammunition use has been cut nearly in half amid the long-term impacts of #Ukrainian strikes on Russian military targets, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said in an interview with the Ukrainian news outlet TSN on Jan. 19. https://kyivindependent.com/ammunition-used-by-russians-halved-syrskyi-says/

***
#Myanmar is another country that #Sweden must, on paper, not export to. However, the rights watchdog, Justice For Myanmar #JFM, has found that the Indian firm, Sandeep Metal Craft Private Ltd, supplied Myanmar's military with FFV-447 projectile #fuses designed for use with Swedish 84 mm Carl Gustaf recoilless rifles. This would not be the first time such an incident has happened.

SPAS (@svenskafreds) the agency @lakerstrom is working for, has been looking into this and she says the results have been “frustrating.” https://www.outlookindia.com/international/the-military-complex-and-war

***
With #Airbus & #Maxar deals, #Dutch double up on #space-based ISR business. “These contracts are established for the renewal and improvement of the current direct access satellite imagery platforms used by the MoD," said a #Netherlands MoD spokesperson. https://breakingdefense.com/2025/01/with-airbus-and-maxar-deals-dutch-double-up-on-space-based-isr-business/

Januari 19

***

Financiële wapenwedloop

De bewering van Mark Rutte in het Europees Parlement dat Rusland in drie maanden meer wapens produceert dan Navo-landen in een jaar (FD, 14 januari), roept vragen op over feitelijke juistheid.

https://fd.nl/opinie/1542731/waarom-tellen-alcohol-en-tabak-uberhaupt-nog-mee-voor-het-inflatiepeil-en-andere-lezersreacties

January 18

***
Zelensky and #Dutch FA minister Veldkamp discussed military cooperation between the 2 countries & investments in #Ukrainian arms #production.

This was reported by the Office of the President , Ukrinform reports.
https://menafn.com/1109099652/Zelensky-Dutch-FM-Discuss-Investments-In-Ukrainian-Arms-Production

Wordt ook al export controle op poten gezet?

***
Nederland is een spil in de #wapenhandel dat moet stoppen, zegt de SP op haar site. https://www.sp.nl/standpunten/defensie/nederland-is-een-spil-in-de-wapenhandel-dat-moet-stoppen

***
Security?

The US government estimates there are over half a million weapons in Haiti, many illegally trafficked from the US. Many of the firearms were legally purchased in the US, but they fetch multiples of their market price when sold to Haitian gangs. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/guns-from-us-fuel-haitis-violence-crisis-gangs-weild-high-powered-weapons/

January 17

***
The Dutch government excludes billions of euros of sales by technology company ASML to China from disclosures on sensitive goods exports, it has told Reuters, following a policy decision that has not been previously reported.

The move is of interest because disclosure of exports of dual use goods with potential military applications had previously been routine in the Netherlands, and experts who rely on public data to understand states' military capabilities, incl parliament, may no longer have the full picture. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/dutch-government-excludes-most-asml-114605718.html

The reports started after a FOIA-claim (WOB in Dutch) by @CTWnl & VPRO's Argos. This provided more info as Members of Parliament got. After a meeting between the Min. of Economics & @SP the current format of info reports was decided and worked for 20 years. #TransparencyErosion

***
an end to the live-streamed genocide?

@CAATuk, a 2012 Right Livelihood Laureate, said: “We need to keep demanding a full 2-way arms embargo.” “A genuine, long-lasting peace can only be achieved when we stop the flow of arms sales.”

https://rightlivelihood.org/news/laureates-express-cautious-optimism-over-israel-hamas-ceasefire-amidst-profound-grief-over-lives-lost/

https://caat.org.uk/news/caat-statement-on-potential-gaza-ceasefire/

January 16

***
CSIS study on: How #Ukraine rebuilt its #military acquisition system around commercial #technology. https://www.csis.org/analysis/how-ukraine-rebuilt-its-military-acquisition-system-around-commercial-technology

***
The villains are the friends of the West

The evidence of the UAE’s massive operation propping up the RSF with all the heavy weaponry and financial backing it needs to survive and continue carrying out atrocities since the very start of the conflict is irrefutable, including drones and intelligence. There is even evidence suggesting the UAE is directly controlling advanced military drones from its territory to provide intelligence and arms shipments. https://www.justsecurity.org/106305/genocide-determination-uae-arms-sales/

***
Growing pressure on Avon Pension Fund to divest from firms making weapons used in Gaza.

Bristol councillors are urging the pension fund to withdraw millions of pounds invested in weapons manufacturers.
https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/growing-pressure-avon-pension-fund-9865911

***
#Vietnam and #Russia inked Tuesday an agreement to boost cooperation on #nuclear energy during Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin's two-day visit to Hanoi.

https://manufacturing.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/energy/vietnam-russia-sign-agreement-to-expand-cooperation-on-nuclear-energy/117257504

***
Mizoram police arrested five individuals, including a Chin National Front leader, near the India-#Bangladesh border. A large cache of arms, including AK-47 rifles and ammunition, was seized, thwarting plans for an #arms trade with Bangladeshi insurgents. https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/3226415-major-arms-seizure-foils-insurgent-plot-in-mizoram

***
Russia’s arms exports dropped by 92 percent from 2021 to 2024 due to redirected resources for Ukraine, sanctions, inflation, and funding issues, Jamestown Foundation (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamestown_Foundation) reports. https://jamestown.org/program/russian-arms-exports-collapse-by-92-percent-as-military-industrial-complex-fails/

***

Actiereis: Potestkamp tegen Maersk in Kopenhagen.
https://vrede.be/nl/kalender/potestkamp-tegen-maersk-kopenhagen

***
Legislative initiative in Congress to permanently lift #arms embargo on #Cyprus. Legislation would streamline the sale of US military systems, strengthening the strategic partnership between the #US & Nicosia while enhancing Cyprus' #military capabilities. https://www.tovima.com/politics/legislative-initiative-in-congress-to-permanently-lift-arms-embargo-on-cyprus/

***
Retweet @SIPRIorg: What are the drivers and implications of #naval build-ups in the Indo–Pacific? This SIPRI paper examines the drivers and implications of naval build-ups in the Indo-Pacific, considering key actors’ security objectives and threat perceptions https://www.sipri.org/publications/2024/research-reports/navigating-security-dilemmas-indo-pacific-waters-undersea-capabilities-and-armament-dynamics

***
Chipwar continues

#Nvidia blasts #Biden Administration's move on AI chip export curbs. The restrictions' announcement drew a fiery response from #China & prompted criticism from the US chip industry, while the #EU expressed its "concern" over the approach. https://www.dailysabah.com/business/tech/nvidia-blasts-biden-administrations-move-on-ai-chip-export-curbs

***
#Raytheon #RTX is investing in its SM-3 production lines to answer global interest for the #interceptor due to successful launches against ballistic missiles in the Middle East.

S Korea is example of country with a strong interest in buying the missile.
https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2025/01/15/raytheon-aims-to-boost-sm-3-missile-production-rates

***
#UAE officials are in talks with #Elbit Systems for the acquisition of Hermes 900 medium-altitude long-endurance #MALE #drones along with transfer of technology and licensed production agreements. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63225

UAE as #illegal provider of arms to conflicts no problem?

***
The chief of the South #Korean state arms procurement agency DAPA will visit #Norway and #Saudi Arabia next week to discuss ways to expand #arms industry cooperation, officials said Thursday, amid South Korea's push to boost its overseas arms exports. https://m-en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20250116003000315?section=national/defense

January 15

***
The new face of weaponry.

#Saab will provide its TactiCall communications system to the Australian MQ-28 Ghost Bat uncrewed aircraft system being developed by #Boeing that also has drawn Pentagon interest. #Unmanned #drones
https://aviationweek.com/defense/sensors-electronic-warfare/saab-joins-boeings-mq-28-ghost-bat-program

***
US fighters to defend #Greenland against US policy? #Denmark repatriated 3 more F-35's it had been using for training in the US, finalizing a workaround to delivery delays by #Lockheed. Denmark flew home 4 aircraft in an older configuration in December. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/01/14/denmark-flies-home-more-f-35s-for-patrols-to-buffer-upgrade-delays/

***
Interview: The West may be losing control over the world’s resources but it still dominates weapons systems and information. Vijay Prashad explains why some world leaders are effectively arms dealers and how this influences diplomacy. https://newint.org/arms/2025/why-west-picks-guns-over-diplomacy-vijay-prashad

***
Money, money, it is so funny...

Rutte didn't offer a specific spending figure for NATO members to agree on, but his plea follows US President-elect Trump calling for a target of 5% of GDP to be met. Earlier this week he spoke about a target of 3.7% of GDP.

https://breakingdefense.com/2025/01/as-nato-beefs-up-baltic-defense-rutte-says-alliance-cannot-wait-to-increase-defense-spending/

***
The Royal #Thai Air Force is set to conduct a critical evaluation of the Swedish #Saab Gripen fighter jet, focusing on its ability to operate from makeshift airstrips on public highways, the Nation reports. https://www.nationthailand.com/news/policy/40045085

The Thai government will support the country's air force in its proposal to acquire the Saab Gripen E/F to replace its aging Lockheed Martin F-16A/Bs. The backing from Bangkok clears a key hurdle for Saab and the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) prior to contract signing. https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/thai-government-backs-air-forces-gripen-ef-selection

***
The #Biden administration in its final days is shifting more than $100 million in military aid from Israel and #Egypt to #Lebanon as it tries to bolster a ceasefire agreement it helped mediate between #Israel and Hezbollah. https://apnews.com/article/lebanon-hezbollah-israel-ceasefire-7d8e3ecced6305ef0ec922d04d571fb4

January 14

***
The US has decided to shut off around 120 countries from accessing the most valuable element that is powering the free market at present #AI. The US has a global dominance in the fast-moving world of AI to defend. https://www.fastcompany.com/91259603/joe-bidens-new-chip-export-rules-strangle-competition-to-ensure-u-s-ai-supremacy

See also: https://www.bis.gov/

***
Germany cooperates with Israeli Elbit firm producing destruction. The German army has received parliamentary approval to buy an initial batch of Elbit-made PULS rocket artillery systems. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/01/06/german-army-gets-nod-to-buy-israeli-puls-rocket-launchers/

***
WTF? EU needs to rethink its spending priorities to boost the military. Mark Rutte: "On average, European countries easily spend up to a ¼ of their income on pensions, health and social security systems, and we need only a small fraction of that money..." https://www.politico.eu/article/welfare-finance-nato-boss-european-parliament-mark-rutte-secretary-general-gdp-defense/

January 13

***
After a year marked by war & calls for isolating #Israel on the world stage, its military industry sells more weapons than ever in its history. This is spurred by foreign demand and significant government spending to fund Israel’s ongoing wars. https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/israels-defense-industry-booms-on-foreign-demand-and-war-at-home-0709ef94

***
Retweet @keesamok: Videos and photos have surfaced online reportedly showing a warehouse of Emirati ammunition and missiles in Wad Madani, Sudan, after the country's military captured the strategic city from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/stashes-emirati-weapons-sudans-wad-madani-report

***
Apple and #Nvidia chip supplier #TSMC’s sales top estimates, boosting #AI’s 2025 outlook

The world’s largest contract chipmaker reported a 39 per cent rise in Oct-Dec revenue to US$26.3bn.

Expansion includes construction in Japan, the US and Germany.
https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3294278/apple-and-nvidia-chip-supplier-tsmcs-sales-top-estimates-boosting-ais-2025-outlook

***
List of military industrial meetings accross Europe (Copenhagen, Bristol, Bristol, Middlesex, Sardinia) topics run from major weapon systems to change of military technology. A border tech conference will be organised in Canberra. https://www.defenceiq.com/events

***
If the #Pentagon gets another big funding boost under cover of a campaign for “efficiency,” the old guard & the new tech arms sector could end up doing fine, at the expense of US citizens & of other needed programs 4 which “efficiency” may mean deep cuts. https://responsiblestatecraft.org/trump-musk-pentagon/

***

Visit Rwanda?

---

Rebels in eastern DRCongo fraudulently exported at least 150 metric tons of coltan to Rwanda last year, leading to the largest contamination of the Great Lakes Region's mineral supply chain on record, UN experts said in a report.

The flows started after the M23 movement, a Tutsi-led organisation purportedly backed by Rwanda, seized the Rubaya area, which produces minerals used in smartphones and computers, follow hing intense fighting in April.

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/congo-rebels-muddy-minerals-market-with-illegal-rwanda-exports-says-un-report-2025-01-08/

Report: https://documents.un.org/doc/undoc/gen/n24/373/37/pdf/n2437337.pdf

***
#Nigeria, #China plan collaboration on #military training, arms production. https://punchng.com/nigeria-china-plan-collaboration-on-military-training-arms-production/

Chinese steel giant, Jingye Group, is expected to engage in the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project, according to media reports.

Estimated at $26 billion, this infrastructure aims to connect West Africa, Morocco and Europe.

https://apanews.net/chinese-company-injects-26bn-into-nigeria-morocco-gas-pipeline/

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maitama Yusuf Tuggar, has said he demanded that China invest in refining Lithium in the country rather than the current export of the mineral resources out of the country. https://www.naijanews.com/2025/01/10/we-want-china-to-refine-our-lithium-in-nigeria-tuggar/

***
#India and #Indonesia discuss $450m #BrahMos missile deal. The #supersonic #missile, range of 290-450 kms depending on the variant, is capable of carrying out precision strikes from land, sea, or air. http://slguardian.org/india-and-indonesia-discuss-450-million-brahmos-missile-purchase-deal/

***
#MBDA, in partnership with #SAAB through their joint venture #TAURUS Systems GmbH, has signed a contract with the Bundeswehr to modernise and maintain the TAURUS stand-off weapon system, ensuring its operational readiness through at least 2045. https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/germany-modernises-cruise-missiles/

***
Creating a new arsenal. #Ukraine’s domestic #arms production grew 500% in 2024, led by drone production. The trend in 2025 is expected to continue on the basis of the “Danish model”; #Denmark has been providing Ukraine with hundreds of millions of euros. https://www.intellinews.com/danish-model-funded-500-increase-in-ukraine-s-domestic-arms-production-in-2024-360899/

***
W-Australian #Damen shipyards is to deliver a new landing craft for the Army. #LST100 The vessel will be capable of carrying more than 500 tonnes of military vehicles/equipment – it is intended to carry six Abrams Tanks,11 Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicles or 26 HIMARS – & will be fitted with weapon systems and #Australian military communications. https://newscop.com.au/2025/01/12/159bn-earmarked-for-10-year-plan-to-boost-naval-shipbuilding/

***
@WilliamHartung: “Trump likes to pose as the ultimate dealmaker, ... he touted how US arms sales support jobs ... Letting Israel spend US aid to bolster Israel’s arms sector rather than to buy weapons from US firms runs counter to his usual approach.” https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/01/12/israel-weapons-bombs-trump-united-states/

***
SDP MP Stegner wrote that Trump's 5% remark was delusional & insane. Resources are neded to solve real-world problems. "We have too much poverty, environmental destruction, civil wars, migration, and too few resources to combat this," according to Stegner. https://www.businessinsider.nl/europe-is-divided-over-trumps-call-for-nato-members-to-boost-defense-spending-to-5-of-gdp/

***
TurkSat 5A would greatly extend the range of drone operations from the west of Europe to the east of Kazakhstan, with more resistance against jamming, rejection and wiretapping; high-definition live streams of targets and commanding of munitions drops. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/T%C3%BCrksat_5A

***
Arianespace brengt #Franse militaire #satelliet in de ruimte

De Composante Spatiale Optique -2 #CSO2 satelliet werd door #Airbus Defence and Space gebouwd in opdracht van het Franse MoD en zal de volgende jaren gebruikt worden voor #spionagetoepassingen. https://www.spacepage.be/nieuws/nieuws-ruimtevaart/lanceringen/arianespace-brengt-franse-militaire-satelliet-in-de-ruimte.html

January 10

***
#Nederland heeft voor #Oekraïne inmiddels voor ruim €1 #miljard aan 155mm #artilleriemunitie verworven. Daarnaast realiseerde Nederland in het laatste kwartaal €2 #miljard aan steun. Hieronder vallen #F16's en contracten en financiering voor #drones.

https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2025/01/09/nederland-zegt-voor-ruim-1-miljard-euro-aan-artilleriemunitie-toe-aan-oekraine

***
Britse speciale legereenheid mocht vrijuit moorden in Afghanistan. Trouw noemt ook voorbeelden uit Australië, de VS en Nederland van militaire wandaden.

https://www.trouw.nl/buitenland/britse-speciale-legereenheid-mocht-vrijuit-moorden-in-afghanistan~b6326f09/

Er zijn nog steeds mensen die dit veiligheidsbeleid noemen.

Inquiry hears elite forces had a ‘kill all males on target whether they posed a threat or not’ policy in Afghanistan https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/jan/08/flat-packing-them-soldier-says-sas-described-killing-afghans-in-casual-way
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c07g40x1v53o
Independent Inquiry relating to Afghanistan (with documents): https://www.iia.independent-inquiry.uk/

January 9

***
Learn how to automatically invade Greenland, conquer Canada, despise the UK, Denmark & Germany.

Rheinmetalll, BAe Systems & Elbit will help you.

On show in London, 31 March - 2 April https://www.smgconferences.com/defence/uk/conference/robotic-autonomous-systems#tab_sponsors

Or demand less spectaulair: efforts arms control & diplomatic solutions.

***
Pan-European missile maker #MBDA bought the remaining 50% of rocket-engine supplier #Roxel from co-owner #Safran, in a move the company expects will help it ramp up production in the face of surging demand. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/01/07/missile-maker-mbda-buys-safrans-stake-in-rocket-engine-supplier-roxel/

***
#EU #funding for #Israeli tech raises fresh concerns of complicity in genocide. EU funds suspected of supporting artificial intelligence #AI technologies used by Israel to ‘locate and kill’ civilians. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/eu-funding-for-israeli-tech-raises-fresh-concerns-of-complicity-in-genocide/3444314

***
#Russia continues to lose the #Serbian arms market — one of the last loyal countries in Europe that has not joined sanctions and has been purchasing #weapons from Moscow since Soviet times and now has terminated a number of contracts for Russian weapons. https://odessa-journal.com/serbia-announced-the-termination-of-contracts-for-russian-weapons

***
Conversation with @antloewenstein

#Israel has deep historical ties with oppressive regimes, arming many that have been accused of genocide. But how is Tel Aviv using expertise it is gaining during its war on #Gaza to make a profit?

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20250108-israels-role-in-the-global-arms-trade-memo-in-conversation-with-antony-loewenstein/

***
#Damen Cape Town has delivered another FCS 3307 patrol vessel to #Nigeria’s Homeland Integrated Offshore Services Ltd to patrol Nigerian waters. https://www.defenceweb.co.za/featured/nigerias-hiosl-receives-another-damen-patrol-vessel/

These privately owned vessels won't mount any deck guns, but their crew will include heavily #armed #guards

***
The German army has received parliamentary approval to buy an initial batch of Elbit-made PULS rocket artillery systems, a decision that could see Berlin look to European munitions suppliers in the future. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/01/06/german-army-gets-nod-to-buy-israeli-puls-rocket-launchers

***
Not a reason yet to be against Elbit, here's a next:

#Israel's MoD signed deals worth about US$276m with defence contractor #Elbit Systems to boost domestic arms production amid the the ongoing genocide in #Gaza. https://manufacturing.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/aerospace-defence/israel-signs-deals-to-boost-domestic-weapons-production/117052090

Amsterdam: https://www.kvk.nl/bestellen/#/88476286000054339367

***
Relaxed control:

#US move to ease dual-use tech exports to #India likely.

Changes in the US #MCTR policy likely to lead to more US companies entering the Indian space sector which has been opened up for private participation under a new policy.

https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/india-us-commercial-space-cooeration-ties-dual-use-technology-export-9767055/lite/

New Biden MTCR policy will free long-range missile tech, space launcher sales to key allies, partners. http://breakingdefense.com/2025/01/new-biden-mtcr-policy-will-free-long-range-missile-rocket-sales-to-key-allies-partners/

***
#Elbit Systems has secured a significant $60 million contract with a unnamed #NATO European country to supply its advanced ReDrone counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS). #drones https://elbitsystems.com/pr-new/elbit-systems-awarded-60-million-contract-to-supply-counter-uas-solution-to-a-nato-european-country/

Romania seems to be the buyer: https://x.com/laurbjn/status/1876249288872992859

***
#UAE President #MBZ had previously reached an understanding with US President-elect Trump regarding the F-35. Trump is interested in activating the #F35 deal with the UAE under specific terms. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63210

Again tabled: the issue of #components by F-35 partners.

***
Nearly half (49%) of Britons view investing in arms manufacturers as crossing an ethical line, according to a new YouGov poll.

60% of Labour voters & 65% of LibDems consider investments in arms industries to be unethical, compared to 28% of Conservatives. https://leftfootforward.org/2025/01/almost-half-of-brits-say-investing-in-arms-manufacturers-is-unethical/

January 8

***
Turkey said that it was “only a matter of time” before Syrian Kurdish fighters –seen by the West as essential against ISIS– will be wiped out. “They will face Turkey’s iron fist.”https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/6/turkiye-says-kurdish-led-armed-groups-in-syria-will-be-eliminated

Do we really sell arms to Ankara? Oh we're even military connected via NATO.

***

Er kwam vanmorgen 'n interessante donateursnieuws brief binnen van http://www.stopwapnhandel.org .

Links bij de Vrijmarkt voor oorlogswapens:

https://stopwapenhandel.org/boekbespreking-tegen-de-stroom-in/

Reserveren: https://dezwijger.nl/programma/vrijmarkt-voor-oorlogswapens/make_reservation

Kijk verder op de website van deze organisatie voor vrede en tegen oorlogsgeweld.

P.S. The January 13 meeting is organised by Forum on the Arms Trade.

***
The #French government has announced that the value of French arms exports exceeded €18bn in 2024, making it the 2nd-best year in its history. #Rafales to Qatar, Serbia and Indonesia & #submarines to the Netherlands were the main exported military items. https://www.fananews.com/language/en/french-arms-exports-hit-second-all-time-record-in-2024/

***
Billionaire and extremist @ElonMusk is looking to carve out a role in #Italy's telecommunications system by expanding his aerospace business Space X and satellite broadband venture Starlink. Italian PM #Meloni has developed a strong relationship with Musk https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/THALES-4715/news/How-Elon-Musk-s-Space-X-is-looking-to-gain-ground-in-Italy-48698208/

January 7

***
The #UAE and #France are still in talks about a joint financing partnership for the development of the future Dassault #Rafale F5 fighter jet. [pay wall] https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63198

***
Een Israëliër die op vakantie was in #Brazilië is de grens over gevlucht uit angst dat hij vervolgd zou worden voor daden in Gaza. Ambassade hielp hem 't land uit.

Minister Saar vervolgens boos dat #Israël geen genocide mag plegen, noemde dit 'verdedigen'. https://www.volkskrant.nl/buitenland/israelische-soldaten-lopen-risico-tijdens-vakantie-in-buitenland-te-worden-opgepakt-voor-oorlogsmisdaden~b2a0c281/

***
UK Labour gov refused to end Israel’s access to F35 parts exported from the UK despite evidence that they have been used to bomb “safe zones” in Gaza.

Scottish Green Harvie said: This will taint Labour's legacy like Iraq did to the last Labour government.
https://www.thenational.scot/news/24837504.labour-refuse-block-israel-access-f-35-jets-despite-gaza-bombing/

***
'If you’ve got an industry that’s working transnationally & across borders, we've to work across borders, building solidarity between different struggles, pulling out those links and where we can work together, where we’ve got pressure points.’ @CAATuk https://newint.org/arms/2025/how-dismantle-deadly-arms-trade

***
#Israel Aerospace Industries is seeking to support start-up companies in #India via a new program, as the company seeks to expand its relationships with a major market for Israeli goods, #IAI CEO Boaz Levy told Breaking Defense in a recent interview. https://breakingdefense.com/2025/01/why-israels-iai-is-investing-heavily-in-indian-startups/

January 6

***
#Arms #race in Asia-Pacific will intensify this year, observers believe as US allies like #Japan & the #Philippines plan big boosts to their defence budgets.

The aim is to counter #China and to hedge against uncertainties over incoming US president #Trump.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3293412/china-and-trump-factor-will-heat-asia-pacific-arms-race-observers-warn

***

In just 18 pages an overview of what is regarded as essential military strategic technology and needs Pentagon investment, like spacecraft, microelectronics materials and manufacturing and biochemicals. https://media.defense.gov/2025/Jan/02/2003623435/-1/-1/1/FY25-INVESTMENT-STRATEGY-FOR-OFFICE-OF-STRATEGIC-CAPITAL.PDF
Article on this: https://defensenews.com/pentagon/2025/01/03/pentagons-2025-industry-investments-target-space-biochem-and-more/

***
Strengthening Riyad. The #US has greenlit arms deal with #Saudi Arabia. The deal involves selling 20 MK 54 #torpedoes, along with a comprehensive package of logistics and program support. The total estimated cost of the program is $78.5 million. https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/kingdom-saudi-arabia-mk-54-mod-0-lightweight-torpedoes

***
Russian arms industries vanished in the Ukraine war, corruption, tanking ruble and no export orders. Russian weapons exports have dropped dramatically under the shadow of Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the global ... https://www.globaldefensecorp.com/2025/01/06/russian-arms-induestries-vanished-in-the-ukraine-war-corruptions-tanking-ruble-and-no-export-orders/

January 5

***
'New' kid on the block #Japan plans to map out a strategy within 2025 to boost military equipment exports by enhancing the int. competitiveness of its defense industry. Tokyo aims to strengthen the industry's foundation by helping expand its market reach. https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2025010300314/

***
The outgoing villain has a message for those who commit gross violations of #IHL. #US State Dep. has informally notified Congress of an $8bn proposed sale of ammo to resupply #IDF stocks of ammo and air defence capabilities, an official said anonymously. https://www.brecorder.com/news/40341057/biden-administration-announces-8bn-arms-sale-to-israel

January 3

***
#Israel's MoD and the IDF inaugurated a new Directorate for #AI and Autonomy this week, aimed at spearheading research, development, and force-building in the fields of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems across all branches of the #IDF. https://www.jewishpress.com/news/israel/government-israel/defense-ministry-launches-new-ai-and-autonomy-administration/2025/01/01/

***
For Germany’s political class, supporting Israel's genocide is naked self-interest.

Many German companies and institutions are intimately connected with Israel. Any change would result in the loss of profits and influence.
https://www.middleeasteye.net/opinion/germany-israel-support-genocide-is-naked-self-interest

January 2

***
Former #Turkish military officer Bozkır (22-year in prison for his role in smuggling explosives to #ISIS) claimed during a court hearing that he previously sold arms to Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, now the de facto president of #Syria, Turkish media reported.

https://www.turkishminute.com/2025/01/02/former-turkish-military-officer-jailed-over-explosives-shipments-to-isil-claims-he-sold-arms-to-al-jolani/

Hablemitoğlu defendant Nuri Gökhan Bozkır: I sold weapons to Colani

Former captain Bozkır, said that he years ago sold weapons to Colani, who took over the administration in Syria. https://www.gazeteduvar.com.tr/hablemitoglu-sanigi-nuri-gokhan-bozkir-colaniye-silah-sattim-haber-1746796

***
How the arms industry #corrupts political parties—interview with @andrewfeinstein.

He's joint editor of The Monstrous Anger of the Guns: How the Global Arms Trade Is Ruining the World and What We Can Do About It. He spoke to Judy Cox about the new book.
https://socialistworker.co.uk/in-depth/how-the-arms-industry-corrupts-political-parties-interview-with-andrew-feinstein/

***
#French aircraft have bombed Islamic State positions in #Syria, Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu said Tuesday, in its first such strike on the country’s soil since the fall of Bashar al-Assad. https://www.barrons.com/news/france-says-it-struck-is-positions-in-syria-b52568e1

***
Ridderorde voor de omstreden Raymond #Westerling?

Nieuwe kalenderjaar, archiefstukken openbaar. Zoals rond de voordracht voor een koninklijke onderscheiding, voor Westerling, de meest #omstreden NL officier uit de Indonesische #Onafhankelijkheidsoorlog. https://www.nationaalarchief.nl/beleven/nieuws/ridderorde-voor-de-omstreden-raymond-westerling

January 1

***
Burgers en NGO's kunnenterecht bij 'n meldpunt voor vermoedens van burgerslachtoffers door NL militaire inzet. Het meldpunt is te vinden op Defensie.nl.
https://www.defensie.nl/onderwerpen/burgerslachtoffers/melden-burgerslachtoffers

Het gaat om inzet in 20 landen vanaf 2000 zoals in Bosnië, Irak, Afghanistan en Mali.

***
Is #Trump a friend or foe to the #military #industry & who will benefit?

It remains to be seen whether any from old league win Trump’s favour, but so far his regard seems to be centered on business leaders from the defence startup & venture capital world.
https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/defense-industry-could-see-big-shakeup-under-trump-2025-preview/

***
#US court orders release of $6m arms #funds to #Nigeria that had been seized by the US government in 2014 from an arms broker.

Until the judgment, Nigeria faced a double whammy, receiving neither its funds nor the military items it wanted to purchase.
https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/764519-us-court-orders-release-of-seized-6-million-arms-funds-to-nigeria.html

***
Happy new year, for whom? #Serbia Buys Advanced Artillery and Drones From Israel's #Elbit Systems. Serbia, a supplier of munitions used by Israel in Gaza, inks $335 million deal for Israeli weapons, amid its arms race with neighboring NATO member #Croatia. https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2025-01-01/ty-article/.premium/serbia-buys-advanced-artillery-and-drones-from-israels-elbit-systems/00000194-1ebe-dbdd-add5-1ebf13af0000