My tweets for January

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

January 16

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

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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/

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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

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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

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#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

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#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?

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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

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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

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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/

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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

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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/

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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

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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

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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/

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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/

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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/

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Visit Rwanda?

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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

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#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/

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#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/

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#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/

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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/

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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/

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@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/

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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/

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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

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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

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#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

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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

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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.

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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/

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#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

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#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

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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/

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#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

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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

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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

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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/

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#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

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#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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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/

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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

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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

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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/

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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/

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'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

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#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

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#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

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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/

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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

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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

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'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/

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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

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#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/

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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

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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

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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/

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#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

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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

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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.

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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/

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#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

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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

My tweets (or X's) for December

 

Latest on top (updated regularly):

(https://twitter.com/martinbroek)

***
#Biden kondigt €5,6 miljard aan militaire en financiële hulp voor #Oekraïne aan. Dat kondigt Joe Biden aan. De president van de VS maakt van zijn laatste weken van zijn ambtstermijn gebruik om de militaire hulp aan Kyiv op te schroeven. https://www.hln.be/buitenland/oekraine-voor-het-eerst-russische-helikopter-vernietigd-met-zeedrone~a2c6d779/

***
US Army to sole-source deal for #hypervelocity projectiles, drone-killing artillery cannon.

The Army plans to spend about $646 million total on the MDAC system project in fiscal 2025-2027, according to budget documents. #BAE

https://defensescoop.com/2024/12/27/army-hypervelocity-projectiles-hvp-multi-domain-artillery-cannon-mdac-bae/

***
#Indian MoD inks ₹2867 crore (€ 234m) contracts with MDL, Naval Group #France for submarine upgrade.

The 2 contracts are for the part of the Air Independent Propulsion #AIP, and the integration of #EHWT torpedo's onboard the Kalvari Class #submarines. https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/mod-inks-2867-crore-contracts-with-mdl-naval-group-france-for-submarine-upgradation/116801526

***
Notorious #Turkish drone manufacturer #Baykar has purchased #Italy’s #Piaggio Aerospace, reflecting Baykar’s growing global ambitions while marking a timely rescue for the troubled Italian aircraft producer. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/12/30/italy-sells-piaggio-aerospace-to-turkish-drone-maker-baykar/

***
22 PALESTINE #ACTION activists begin 2025 in a jail cell after protest at an Israeli weapons site.

Bryn Higgs, 60, was arrested after sledgehammers were used to smash into the walls of #Elbit UAV Engines’ #drone factory at Shenstone in Staffordshire.

https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/22-palestine-action-members-will-begin-2025-in-a-jail-cell

December 28

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A NATO-supplied #F16 fighter, recently delivered to #Ukraine as part, has reportedly been shot down by Russian forces while attempting to hit targets in the Zaporizhzhia region, Obektivno.bg reports, citing a Russian source in Telegram. https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2024/12/26/russian-sam-reportedly-shot-down-an-f-16-over-zaporizhzhia/

***
Canadian MEP urged Ottawa to ensure that arms sold to the #UAE aren't used to harm Sudanese civilians. Canada's FA Minister stated the RSF would likely falter without UAE support, linking UAE involvement in African conflicts to ongoing regional instability https://www.modernghana.com/news/1368262/atrocities-continue-unabated-in-sudan.html

***
Krokodillentranen

Wat te denken van 't toppunt van hypocrisie: 'n regering die krokodillentranen huilt over Gaza, maar ondertussen onderdelen voor wapentuig levert aan #Israël (45.000+ doden en 't gebied in puin).

Vrede begint blijkbaar met #wapenhandel. https://www.metronieuws.nl/lezerscolumn/2024/12/lezerscolumn-om-hoorndol-van-te-worden/

***
#EU–#Japan security partnership shows promise but lacks action. Overview of small steps taken and hurdles on the road towards cooperatation. https://eastasiaforum.org/2024/12/28/eu-japan-security-partnership-shows-promise-but-lacks-action/

Is China-Russia entente inevitable, as written here? Or is it a self forfilling prophecy part of Cold War 2.0?

December 27

***
Retweet @sarahdobbe: Vandaag in @trouw over het gevaar van oorlogsretoriek en de wapenwedloop. Wie vrede wil moet zich voorbereiden op vrede. Laat dat geen taboe meer zijn. https://www.trouw.nl/opinie/opinie-verwijt-nederlanders-geen-gebrek-aan-oorlogsbereidheid~bc1a354fb/

***
Ga niet mee in de oorlogsretoriek van NAVO-secretaris-generaal @SecMarkrutte, zegt Réginald Moreels voor de Vrede, humanitair arts en voormalig minister. https://www.mo.be/opinie/Reginald-Moreels_Tegen-de-oorlogsretoriek-van-Mark-Rutte-zeg-ik-zonder-mij

***
#Israël schendt op uitzonderlijk destructieve manier het internationaal recht. Het wordt geholpen door 't Westen, met de VS op kop. De VN veroordelen wel, maar kijken verder machteloos toe, terwijl vanuit het Zuiden de roep om gerechtigheid luider klinkt. https://www.mo.be/analyse/het-westen-ondermijnt-zijn-geloofwaardigheid-ten-opzichte-van-globale-zuiden

***

Samenvatting en opmerkingen: 'De wapens zijn monsterlijk gewelddadig. De wapenindustrie vernield de wereld. Wat we er tegen kunnen doen.'

https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2024/12/samenvatting-en-opmerkingen-de-wapens.html
Korte bespreking hier: https://broekfoto.blogspot.com/2024/12/monsterlijke-kwaadaardigheid.html
Zie ook deze activiteit: https://dezwijger.nl/programma/vrijmarkt-voor-oorlogswapens

December 26

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Hindu extremist Dehli increases reliance on #Russian #arms and strengthens long-standing defence ties. In recent months #India’s share of Russian arms exports increased by 15%, a stark reminder of the deepening defence relationship between the 2 countries. https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2024/12/26/india-increased-russian-arms-exports-by-15-in-record-time/

***
Member of Berlin State parliament said the #Turkish military actions in #Syria are part of a long-standing policy and he underlined that Turkey’s military operations in South #Kurdistan constitute human rights violations and breaches of international law. https://anfenglish.com/freedom-of-the-press/ferhat-kocak-turkish-state-commits-crimes-in-rojava-77075 Not able to post this on X.

December 25

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#Germany has escalated its support for #Israel in 2024, approving arms exports exceeding €160m, with an additional €30m worth of military equipment authorized in recent weeks to underscor Germany’s alliance with Israel.

https://thejudean.com/index.php/news/41-defense-technology/3459-germany-approves-additional-eur30m-arms-exports-to-israel

https://www.spiegel.de/politik/israel-bundesregierung-erlaubt-waffenexporte-fuer-mehr-als-30-millionen-euro-a-40459746-9403-4a1b-b6af-cb91c8b49420

***
While combat has seen a drone revolution, the US has made subtle but real advances in applying #AI to military planning, intelligence, and “all domain” command and control.

Killer Apps: 5 stories highlight quiet progress on military AI and CJADC2. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/killer-apps-5-stories-highlight-quiet-progress-on-military-ai-and-cjadc2/

December 24

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#Bespreking: The #Palestine #Laboratory, er wordt geëxperimenteerd met controle op en scheiding van bevolkingsgroepen. Niet alleen met militaire macht, maar ook met bewakingssoftware, 'sociale' media, en door de ontwikkeling van een repressieve ideologie. https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2024/12/the-palestine-laboratory.html

Overigens moet opgemerkt worden dat het boek is geschreven voor de huidige etnische zuivering die mogelijk zelfs een genocide is. Kortom het beschrijft de voorgeschiedenis. Door @antloewenstein

***
#Damen Naval signed a contract with #Nevesbu (* see .../2)  for the platform engineering scope of the Plataforma Estratégica de Superficie (PES) #frigate for #Colombia. https://www.marinelink.com/news/colombian-pes-frigate-deal-announced-520549

2/ German submarine construction and arming them was in the interbellum closely connected with the Netherlands.

#Nevesbu started in '35 in the building where also the German U-boot companies AFAT & IvS (in NL to escape '18 treaty clauses) were located. https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2018/09/onderzeeboten-in-troebel-vaarwater-een.html

***
Retweet @De Nieuwe Vredesbeweging: Aanrader: Vanochtend waren @JongeJakob en Eline vdKaaden, medeoprichters vd @vredesbeweging_ op @NPORadio1, o.a. over hun motieven om het platform op te richten. Wie vlak voor #Kerst een bijzonder mooi gesprek wil horen over hun perspectief op #vrede:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5qFGJnJoPythTxB0ofWl2W 23-12 Praten over vrede in tijden van oorlog

***
European arms export policy down the drain?

EU foreign ministers rebuffed a call to end arms sales to Israel last month, despite mounting evidence of war crimes—& potentially, genocide—presented to them in an internal assessment obtained by The Intercept. https://theintercept.com/2024/12/23/eu-report-israel-war-crimes-complicity/

***
Turkey is gaining ground in Africa in sectors such as infrastructure, natural resource extraction, military equipment supply & security agreements, according to a report (19/12) by the French Institute #IRIS: Sino-Turkish Presence and Rivalries in Africa.

https://www.ecofinagency.com/public-management/2312-46278-turkey-challenges-chinas-growing-influence-in-africa

***
#Germany rethinks sale of attack #submarines to #Egypt following #Israeli pressure. Israeli navy officer noted the weapons on board Egypt’s submarines could pose a significant threat to the Israeli Navy offshore, deep under the surface, and even on #land. https://www.military.africa/2024/12/germany-rethinks-sale-of-attack-submarines-to-egypt-following-israeli-pressure/

***
A Comprehensive Overview of #Israeli Arms Exports to #Azerbaijan. https://greydynamics.com/a-comprehensive-overview-of-israeli-arms-exports-to-azerbaijan/

Not a surprising cooperation. Both countries have something in comon: an ethnic cleansing policy.

***
Next step in loosening Japan's arms export rules? #Japan & #Germany listed as finalists to build frigates for the #Australian navy. The choice between price (German ships cheaper) or links to US (Japanese ships more easily US armed, seems questionable). https://japan-forward.com/japan-germany-listed-as-finalists-to-build-new-frigates-for-the-royal-australian-navy/

***
#Italy inks deal to buy up to 24 more Typhoons, Leonardo says. The contract with Rome follows hard on the heels of a deal with #Spain for 25 #Eurofighter Typhoon 4th-generation #fighter jets. #EFA

https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/italy-inks-deal-to-buy-up-to-24-more-typhoons-leonardo-says/

https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/spain-orders-25-additional-eurofighter-typhoon-fighter-jets-links-arms-on-turkish-trainer/

Head of #EFA consortium, Mezzanatto predicted last year that 100-200 new fighters would be ordered in the medium term. He spoke of a "rebirth of the program" with the aim of Europe modernizing its air forces. But #Qatar, #Turkey & #KSA are also mentioned. http://a2news.com/english/rajoni-bota/bota/rilindja-per-eurofighter-evropa-po-blen-avione-luftarake-me-vle-i1136318

December 23

***

Retweet with comment @shaabiranks: Indefensible, to be condemmed and to stopped now! Brussels, Den Haag, Berlin, London, Paris, Madrid ....

Whole gruesome article https://archive.ph/O8rGB

'Wetteloosheid in Gaza'

Israëlische soldaten doen boekje open: 'We schieten ongewapende burgers dood'

https://www.rtl.nl/nieuws/artikel/5486595/israelische-soldaten-doen-boekje-open-we-schieten-ongewapende-burgers-dood

***
The #US State Department approved sale of more than $5 billion in arms for #Egypt $4.69bn worth of equipment for 555 M1A1 #Abrams tanks operated by Egypt, $630m in #Hellfire air-to-surface missiles and $30m in precision-guided #munitions. https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/archive-date/202412

Another North African country also buys US weaponry.

The #US State Department approved the sale of more than $174 million in arms for #Morocco: $86m worth of GBU-39B Small Diameter #Bombs (SDB-I) and $88.37m in Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air #Missiles. https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/archive-date/202412

December 22

In 2025, Russia plans to spend 6.3% of GDP, or $145bn, on the military, according to the Federal Budget Law for 2025-27. In addition $37bn will be spent on internal security. Total spending in these 2 categories will amount to $183bn, or about 41% of the public budget. https://defence-industry.eu/russia-seeks-victory-in-growing-military-spending-brief/

The #EU in 2023 already sharply increased its total #military #expenditure, with a total amount to €279bn by EU Member States. An increase which continued the following year, according to the European Defence Agency #EDA estimates to €326bn . https://eda.europa.eu/docs/default-source/brochures/1eda---defence-data-23-24---web---v3.pdf

***
How wide ranging has the opposition against Israeli #genocide has to become before it is stopped?

An #MIT lab is collaborating with the #Israeli military to develop #AI surveillance algorithms. MIT #censored a campus publication that tried to expose it.

https://mondoweiss.net/2024/12/despite-censorship-and-intimidation-we-continue-to-demand-no-more-research-for-genocide-at-mit/

***
Gregor Gysi of Die Linke has called on the #German government to demand an end to #Turkey’s #military actions against the #Kurds in #Iraq and #Syria. He also called for an immediate halt to arms exports to Turkey, citing violations of international law. https://medyanews.net/german-left-party-urges-turkey-to-stop-attacks-on-kurds/

December 21

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Lithuania to Invest in Ukraine’s Palianytsia Missile Drone.

Investment in the missile drone will be part of a €10 million investment in Ukraine’s arms industry.
https://www.kyivpost.com/post/44251

***
#Bahrain the human rights champion..NOT..has purchased 9 H145 #Airbus heli's to support law #enforcement missions. The heli's will be operated by the #Police Aviation Command. Airbus predicts they will quickly become a valuable new asset for the service. https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-12-bahrain-ministry-of-interior-orders-9-airbus-h145-helicopters

***
War what is it good for? And for whom it is a disaster?

"Military spending in DRC and South Sudan rose fastest in the world: society ends up paying the price."

While brass and military industries pocket the gains.

https://www.defenceweb.co.za/joint/diplomacy-a-peace/military-spending-in-drc-and-south-sudan-rose-fastest-in-the-world-society-ends-up-paying-the-price/

***
26th Annual Report on Arms Exports (for 2023) launched:
https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/26th-annual-report-arms-exports-2023-launched-eu-transparent-and-responsible-trader-arms_en

The report is available on the Council of the EU website:
https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/documents-publications/public-register/public-register-search/?WordsInSubject=2008%2F944%2F&WordsInText=&DocumentNumber=&InterinstitutionalFiles=&DocumentTypes=&DateFrom=2024%2F12%2F16&DateTo=2024%2F12%2F16&MeetingDateFrom=&MeetingDateTo=&DocumentLanguage=EN&OrderBy=DOCUMENT_DATE+DESC

The EEAS included the 2023 data in its searchable online database: https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/eeasqap/sense/app/75fd8e6e-68ac-42dd-a078-f616633118bb/sheet/74299ecd-7a90-4b89-a509-92c9b96b86ba/state/analysis
---
The #CAAT UK arms exports browser has been updated to include data up to June 2024:
https://caat.org.uk/data/exports-uk/overview

The raw data is also available for analysis in CSV spreadsheet format:
https://github.com/caatdata/uk-arms-export-data

***
UN meeting to discuss; Western arms supplies to Ukraine; the continues killing and injuring by a panoply of deadly munitions; and members urged a diplomatic end to the violence and condemned Moscow’s aggression; & the advise to read Tolstoy's 'How Muc...' https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15952.doc.htm

***
#Ukraine targets key #Russian rocket fuel plant Kamensky Combine with #ATACMS and #stormshadow Missiles. https://www.kyivpost.com/post/44200

***
#French #NavalGroup adversises its clear viewpoint with the weapon systems it delivered to gross human rights violators #Saudi Arabia (with butcher MbS), and #Egypt with murderer el-Sisi. https://defensehere.com/en/a-look-back-at-wds-2024-naval-groups-vision-for-saudi-defense/

December 20

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Spain’s state-owned shipbuilder #Navantia, which just closed a deal with #Saudi's, now agreed to buy Irish Harland & Wolff.
UK Secretary Reynolds said the deal guarantees jobs in #Belfast for 3 years after completion of 7 year contract for Royal #Navy.
https://www.irishnews.com/news/business/spains-state-owned-shipbuilder-navantia-agrees-deal-to-buy-harland-wolff-RRFMOHCR4RBRLPBFQNDNC6HVVY/

***
S. #Korean Hanwha closes $100M deal to take over Philly #Shipyard to produce auxiliaries for the #USN.

Navy Secretary Del Toro has made encouraging foreign investment into US shipyards a key element of his “Maritime Statecraft” initiative. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/hanwha-closes-100m-deal-to-take-over-philly-shipyard/

December 19

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German arms exports have risen sharply, including to the Middle East. Both major churches are calling for stricter licensing rules. https://www.dw.com/en/german-arms-exports-churches-question-u-turn/a-71105467

***
Updates on the talks between the UAE and France about a joint financing partnership for the development of the future Dassault Rafale F5 fighter jet and the  Emirati senior officials managing this file. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63198

***
#Singapore-based companies sold or facilitated reselling of arms worth US$254m to #Myanmar’s junta, when protested Singapore was be more restrictive and significantly curtailed its arms trade with Myanmar, but it was still to the tune of $100m by June '24. https://www.asiasentinel.com/p/singapore-scores-kazakh-arms-deal

***
Some 250 exhibitors from 30 countries at the arms fair in Hannoi: military companies from Europe, Russia, US, Israel, Ukraine, 1st time China & Iran. Russia has brought a Rubezh-ME coastal missile system & several varieties of armored vehicles to display. https://www.rfa.org/english/vietnam/2024/12/19/arms-fair-defense/

***
New Internationalist tackles arms trade.

Guns and power: The arms trade's threat to democracy

War means devastation for most, for the arms industry it means big profits. The trade can seem like a vast, faceless, secretive foe. And in many ways it is.

https://newint.org/issues/2024/12/18/guns-and-power-arms-trades-threat-democracy

***
Gaza war: #French #arms sales to #Israel marked by lack of transparency and control.

France's exports of military equipment to Israel have been shrouded in #opacity, raising questions about its complicity in war #crimes against Palestinians.

https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/gaza-war-french-arms-sales-israel-marked-lack-transparency-and-control

***
What will win? Ethnic cleansing or ethic policy?

A senior Israeli envoy is visits Canada this week, to improve ties and to restart arms exports to Israel, a halt to funding for the UNRAW, and increased trade and cooperation. https://caliber.az/en/post/israel-requests-canada-lift-arms-export-suspension-end-funding-to-unrwa

***
For four years, the Biden administration has missed an opportunity to reestablish its leadership and credibility over the international arms trade by rejoining the Arms Trade Treaty. #ATT https://www.stimson.org/2024/bidens-missed-opportunity-on-the-arms-trade-treaty/

***
#Russian Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov said on Wednesday that #arms #control was now a thing of the past due to the lack of trust between Russia and the West. https://english.alarabiya.net/News/world/2024/12/18/arms-control-is-thing-of-the-past-russia-s-top-general-

***
De Duitse werf #Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems gaat vier extra #onderzeeërs bouwen voor #Duitsland en #Noorwegen. De Bondsdag is woensdag akkoord gegaan met de order, waarmee €4,7 mrd is gemoeid, meldt persbureau Bloomberg.

https://fd.nl/politiek/1540599/duitse-bondsdag-akkoord-met-miljardenorder-onderzeeers
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-18/german-lawmakers-approve-4-7-billion-order-for-submarines

***
In 2024 (1 January to 17 December), #Ukraine became the largest recipient of #German #arms, receiving 62% of total exports, amounting to €8.13 billion of total exports worth around €13.2 billion. https://gagadget.com/en/552247-the-game-awards-2024-gathered-more-viewers-than-the-superbowl-150-million-people-watched-the-game-show/

***
#China’s crackdown on #corruption that has ensnared top military officials and several key Chinese army units has affected the country’s military buildup, but it continues at a rapid pace, said the Pentagon Wednesday.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2024/12/18/china-military-power-report-pentagon/
#Report https://media.defense.gov/2024/Dec/18/2003615520/-1/-1/0/MILITARY-AND-SECURITY-DEVELOPMENTS-INVOLVING-THE-PEOPLES-REPUBLIC-OF-CHINA-2024.PDF

December 18

***
Retweet with comment @sarahdobbe: Dit is hoe oorlogspropaganda werkt. We komen erdoor in een wapenwedloop die de wereld onveiliger maakt. Vrede en diplomatie wordt tot taboe gemaakt en afgedaan als naïef. En de wapenindustrie profiteert. We zien en merken het elke dag. https://x.com/sarahdobbe/status/1869325571441963323

De vier redenen in 't kort:

1 Jonkvrouw in nood
2 De onmenselijke vijand
3 De domino-theorie
4 De strijd tussen goed en kwaad

En de winsten? Inderdaad: https://www.bnr.nl/nieuws/economie/10563306/een-abctje-meer-geld-naar-defensie-dus-gaan-aandelen-omhoog

En dan laat je journalisten er nog wat bij fantaseren, zoals Romana Abels in Trouw en het Parool die stelde dat Rusland al heel lang 14 maal zoveel uitgeeft aan wapens als Europa op grond van de woorden van eurocommisaris Kubilius die in werkelijkheid het volgende zei: “It looks like Russia in 2025, in purchasing power parity terms, for military needs will spend more than all EU 27 are spending for defence”. Dat is heel wat minder dan 14 maal. De redacties zitten te slapen, interesseren de werkelijke cijfers niet of willen reden 5 vormen: Je liegt en bedriegt de angst voor de tegenstander bij elkaar.

***
At last: The #US has begun relocating thousands of #Marines from the Japanese island of #Okinawa.

But: A small detachment of +/- 100 logistics support Marines from III Marine Expeditionary Force has started to relocate from Okinawa to #Guam.

https://www.marines.mil/News/Press-Releases/Press-Release-Display/Article/4002316/usmcmod-joint-statement-commencement-of-force-flow/

***
#Bias (on eg race, gender & class) in #military #AI can have various humanitarian consequences depending on context and use. These range from misidentifying people and objects in targeting decisions to generating flawed assessments of humanitarian needs. https://www.sipri.org/publications/2024/sipri-background-papers/bias-military-artificial-intelligence

***
#Drones have been a mainstay tech among the military, navies in particular. However, because drone developments follow each other rapidly, research intitutes #MARIN & #NLR have joined to develop an simulation environment on behalf of the #Dutch #navy. https://magazine.marin.nl/marin-report-142/uva-operations

***
3 MPs from the #Slovenian Freedom Movement have submitted a bill to ensure free access to #documents on the illicit trade in military #arms & equipment in the years 1991–94. "citizens have the right to know what happened"

https://www.delo.si/novice/slovenija/poslanci-svobode-vlozili-predlog-zakona-o-trgovini-z-vojaskim-orozjem
https://ground.news/article/will-the-documents-on-the-arms-trade-finally-be-public

***
Arms exports to #NATO member #Turkey? Why not!

Turkey will not allow the creation of a #Kurdish stronghold in northern #Syria - said President #Erdogan and Turkish military forces will not stop #bombing Syrian Kurdish militia positions.
https://telegrafi.com/en/turqia-do-te-vazhdoje-ti-bombardoje-pozicionet-e-milicise-siriane-kurde/

***
French-German (officially #Amsterdam headquartered) #KNDS and #Danish state negotiate confidential agreement to avoid trial over acquisition of #Israeli ATMOS 2000s. https://meta-defense.fr/en/2024/12/17/knds-atmos-2000-caesar-accord-proces/

***
A new part of the arms race between sword & shield. Although he doubts the hypersonic quality of Russian glide weapons, the retired Major General Thompson argues for sufficient funding to field a fully operationally capable Glide Phase Interceptor by 2032. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/hypersonic-missile-defense-deserves-predictable-and-sustainable-funding/

December 17

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In a wave of collaboration, leading #AI firms team up—even with rivals—to serve a Pentagon & Congress determined to put AI to #military use. Their alignment may herald an era in which software firms seize the influence now held by old-line defence firms. https://www.defenseone.com/technology/2024/12/are-ai-defense-firms-about-eat-pentagon/401673/

***
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

How about the US #competitor?

#SpaceX’s satellite internet service #Starlink is projected to reach $11.8 billion in revenue next year, driven by strong consumer demand and growing #US military contracts, according to a new market analysis. https://spacenews.com/starlink-set-to-hit-11-8-billion-revenue-in-2025-boosted-by-military-contracts/

***
The Hidden Costs: Transparency and the #US #Arms #Trade
Exploring the urgent need for #transparency in the US arms trade and identifying pathways for reform.

https://www.stimson.org/2024/the-hidden-costs-transparency-and-the-us-arms-trade/

Download full paper: https://www.stimson.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Hidden-Costs-Transparency-Paper-FINAL.pdf

***
Alle medewerkers van de wapenkamer van het Korps Politie #Suriname (KPS) zijn op non-actief gesteld. Het gaat om vier #politieagenten, waaronder enkele met hogere rangen, die worden verdacht van illegale #wapenleveranties aan criminele organisaties. https://unitednews.sr/korps-politie-suriname-in-opspraak-wapenkamerpersoneel-verdacht-van-wapenhandel/

***
The #Swiss government has tightened #regulations on #arms exports to prevent the diversion of weapons to conflict zones, following a #scandal involving a #Polish company that sent over half a million rounds of Swiss-made ammunition to #Ukraine. https://www.bignewsnetwork.com/news/274852963/switzerland-tightens-gun-export-rules-after-its-ammo-found-in-ukraine

December 16

***
‘Als dit doorgaat, blijft er weinig #natuur over’

#Krijgsmacht wil meer #oefenruimte en bestaande terreinen intensiever gebruiken.

Natuur kan je dat dan eten?
Stomme vraag, en bovendien: zonder natuur geen eten.
https://www.nd.nl/leven/leven/1250271/defensie-wil-meer-oefenruimte-als-dit-doorgaat-blijft-er-wein

 
***
The UK, Italy, & Japan decided to pull more financial, human, & tech resources down the drain.

They launched a Joint Venture to develop a supersonic next-generation fighter by 2035, replacing the #EFA/#Typhoon. Not the only European fighter project. #FCAS

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/global-combat-air-programme-industry-partners-reach-landmark-agreement-to-deliver-next-generation-combat-aircraft

#Saudi Arabia has expressed strong interest in joining the collaborative #fighter jet program. #Riyadh’s participation, however, would introduce new issues and complexities to the project. #Tempest https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15553157

December 14

***
Human rights? Regional conflict?

Germany has approved arms exports to Turkey vallued €230.8m in 2024, the highest level in nearly 2 decades.

This includes: €79.7m weapons & €151.1m in other military equipment. https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/german-arm-exports-to-turkiye-hits-highest-level-in-2-decades-203554

***
Australian giants accused of trying to fix prices in multibillion-dollar Defence contracts

Two major services companies have been accused of causing “direct harm” to the Australian government and taxpayers. https://www.watoday.com.au/business/companies/australian-giants-accused-of-trying-to-fix-prices-in-multibillion-dollar-defence-contracts-20241212-p5kxxd.html

***
Ik zou #Schiphol, #Zestienhoven, of liefst #Valkenburg willen suggereren. Eens kijken hoeveel protest er dan komt tegen het "ongezonde harde geluid". https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2024/12/12/defensie-beperkt-zoeklocaties-voor-extra-ruimte-luchtmacht

https://pointer.kro-ncrv.nl/ongezond-hard-geluid-rondom-vliegbasis-leeuwarden-neemt-toe-defensie-scherpt-geluidsnormen-niet-aan

#Woensdrecht, De #Peel, #Eelde, #Lelystad en #Twente Airport.

***
No problem Emirates regulary & decades reroute weaponry to gross human rights violators, countries under embargo?

#UAE, incoming #US admin, and #Mako hypersonic dealnote. UAE is still interested in procuring #Lockheed Martin hypersonic missiles. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63187

***
An overview of the talks between the UAE and Palantir to advance artificial intelligence (AI)-driven defense collaboration. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63183

***
How to regard buying arms from the military industry which is supplying an Apartheid state involved in ehtich cleansing and probably even genocide?

#Greek government is a step away from purchasing 36 PULS) #rocket launchers from #Israel.

https://breakingthenews.net/Article/Greece-allegedly-to-buy-arms-from-US-Israel/63233188

***
South Africa's arms trade dilemma under the spotlight. #Rheinmetall in S. #Africa has been a quiet fixture for years, producing artillery shells at a factory tucked away from public scrutiny. But now it is in the spotlight, and not for the right reasons. https://allafrica.com/stories/202412130652.html

***
The race between the boycott policy by the police man of the world and the unlimited financial resources pumped into advanced chip production by #China to counter is creating a more insecure world and worse than expected results. #US #TSMC #semiconductors https://merics.org/de/kommentar/export-control-breach-reveals-chinas-continuing-struggle-produce-high-end-semiconductors

***
Any idea what this means in absolute figures?

European members of NATO began discussing a plan to gradually increase defense spending to 3% of GDP by 2030 the FT was quoted. https://www.dailyfinland.fi/europe/40930/NATO-European-members-mull-raising-defense-spending-to-3-of-GDP

GDP EU ('23) = €17 trn x 3/100 = € 510 bn.

Russia €119 bn in 2025.

***
Arms export control = Arming the violent autocrats

#Saudi Arabia inks deal for 3 Avante 2200 Corvettes from #Spain’s #Navantia. The vessels will join the Kingdom's current fleet of five corvettes, also made by the Spanish firm. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/saudi-arabia-inks-deal-for-3-avante-2200-corvettes-from-spains-navantia/

December 12

***
#India’s defence minister watched the commissioning of his country’s multi-role stealth guided missile #frigate, INS Tushil, at a Kaliningrad shipyard, hailing it as a “significant milestone” in ties with the longstanding defence #ally #Russia. https://www.barrons.com/news/india-bolsters-naval-fleet-with-new-russia-built-warship-97f607b8

***
An #Australian #warship has test-fired a US #Tomahawk cruise missile, officials said Tuesday, hailing a “major milestone” in the country’s decade-long plan to beef up its fleet in the face of an Asia-Pacific #arms #race. https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/media-releases/2024-12-10/navy-conducts-successful-firing-tomahawk-cruise-missile

***
Op de valreep. Activiste tegen #kernwapens in #Volkel voor de #rechter. https://nieuwevredesbeweging.nl/2024/12/10/frieda-kas-voor-rechtbank-den-bosch/

***
What is #Palantir?

Palantir meanwhile, while never overly forthcoming as to what it actually does, has been involved in large-scale defence contracts — mostly involving the various US #intelligence agencies, especially the #CIA — since its inception.https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-41534549.html

***
#NAVO-leger bombardeert in Syrië

Het #Turkse bezettingsleger en zijn huurlingen bombarderen het dorp Zormogar, de Ahmed Mounir boerderij op het westelijke platteland van Kobani met zware wapens. https://www.koerdischnieuws.nl/turkije-en-door-turkije-gesteunde-huurlingen-bombarderen-het-westelijke-platteland-van-kobani/

***
Dutch insurers like NN Group, Achmea & ASR are seriously looking into opportunities to invest in the national military industry. They’re giving heed to increasing pressure from the government on institutional investors to do so. https://nltimes.nl/2024/12/11/dutch-insurers-considering-investing-defense-industry

https://fd.nl/samenleving/1539450/verzekeraars-werpen-zich-op-als-potentiele-investeerders-defensie-industrie

***
EU and US companies continue to supply weapons to Russia through intermediary countries. Arms exports to Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and other countries have increased 2.5 times in three years, from where they end up in Russia. https://unn.ua/en/news/russia-buys-rifles-and-ammunition-from-the-eu-and-the-us-despite-sanctions-media

***
"Since its inception in 2019, EDGE has expanded its product portfolio from 30 to 201 cutting-edge solutions across air, land, sea, and cyber domains." the company said, adding that it has a $12.8 billion backlog.
https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/emirates-edge-group-marks-5th-birthday-from-small-disruptor-to-middle-east-heavyweight/

***
De mogelijke terugkeer van #Defensie op Twente Airport maakt de tongen los. #Vrijheid is niet hetzelfde als jezelf bewapenen, schrijft Marcel Geerdinck uit Enschede. Wim Gaalman uit Oldenzaal schrijft dat niet alleen vrijheid, maar ook #leefbaarheid telt. https://archive.ph/OMwmt#selection-1707.0-1715.262

***
#Spherical Systems, #Rotterdam; #QurieGen, #Nijmegen; & #CUbIQ Technologies, #Eindhoven krijgen v/d #NAVO elk een subsidie van €100.000 om hun producten verder te ontwikkelen vanuit #Diana (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic).

Dit jaar waren er meer dan 2.600 bedrijven die hun dual-use-oplossingen hebben ingestuurd naar Diana. Hieruit zijn 74 startups overgebleven die de technologie nu echt samen met de NAVO verder mogen ontwikkelen. Uit Nederland kwamen 88 aanmeldingen.
https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2024/12/11/startups-uit-nederland-krijgen-subsidie-uit-innovatieprogramma-navo

December 11

***
Since the #arms embargoes following the Tianamen square massacre began, #China’s arms industry has grown. With plenty of products manufacturers are increasingly turning to foreign #markets, said Katja Drinhausen of the Mercator Institute for China Studies. https://www.icij.org/investigations/china-cables/chinese-arms-flow-into-the-us-and-other-countries-despite-manufacturers-alleged-role-in-xinjiang-repression/

December 10

***
Major arms sale:

#Damen has formalized a contract with Lloyd’s Register to oversee the design approval for the Plataforma Estratégica de Superficie #frigate project in #Colombia.

The frigate will be constructed locally by Colombian shipbuilder #COTECMAR

https://www.defensemirror.com/news/38358

***
The delivery of K2 tanks from South Korea to Poland, valued at 9 trillion won ($6.27 billion), may be delayed due to the declaration and subsequent cancellation of martial law. https://caliber.az/en/post/south-korea-poland-tank-deal-faces-potential-delay-due-to-political-uncertainty

***
Militarisation of EU speeds up. Kubilius called for the bloc’s next 7-year budget to include close to €100bn allocated solely to defense. The current €1 trn EU budget has €10bn for the military. Kubilius is calling for a 10-fold increase after 2027. https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news/first-eu-defense-chief-eyes-a-e100-billion-war-chest/

EU’s new defense czar looks to kick rearmament into high gear. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/12/06/eus-new-defense-czar-looks-to-kick-rearmament-into-high-gear/

***
The evolution of exports from the Spanish Defence Industry https://www.revistaejercitos.com/en/Articles/The-evolution-of-exports-from-the-Spanish-defence-industry/

***
Japan's efforts to expand its defense industry both domestically and internationally could heighten tensions in the region and spark an arms race, experts warned. https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202412/10/WS67579f82a310f1265a1d209c.html

***
“Updated #AUKUS Export Control Regimes Ease Trade But Worsen Tensions”

Australia, US & UK removed limitations on the export of weapons and allows for easier sharing of information, tech &b most prominently, military products/services.

https://theowp.org/updated-aukus-export-control-regimes-ease-trade-but-worsen-tensions/

***
Moscow is actively using #US #electronics to manufacture weapons and devices for waging war against #Ukraine.

As Ukrinform reports, that’s according to a journalistic investigation by Bloomberg. #Russia https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-12-09/russia-s-military-buying-us-chips-from-texas-instruments-despite-sanctions
https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/3936193-russia-keeps-purchasing-us-microchips-for-arms-production-despite-sanctions-media.html

***
Moscow is actively using American electronics to manufacture weapons and devices for waging war against Ukraine.

As Ukrinform reports, that’s according to a journalistic investigation by Bloomberg. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-12-09/russia-s-military-buying-us-chips-from-texas-instruments-despite-sanctions
https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/3936193-russia-keeps-purchasing-us-microchips-for-arms-production-despite-sanctions-media.html

***
The dangerous link between illegal #mining, called 'galamsey' and #firearms in #Ghana. https://www.modernghana.com/news/1364471/the-dangerous-link-between-galamsey-and-firearms.html

December 8

***
#Vrijmarkt voor #oorlogswapens

Hoe de wapenindustrie de exportcontrole ondermijnt en wat we er tegen kunnen doen. Met onder meer Andrew Feinstein, directeur van Shadow World Investigations.

di 28 jan 2025, 20.00 Pakhuis de Zwijger,

Piet Heinkade 179, Amsterdam
https://dezwijger.nl/programma/vrijmarkt-voor-oorlogswapens

***
Hindu nationalist extremist state #India defends #arms exports to #Israel amid allegations of fueling genocide in #Gaza, prioritizing national interests over international condemnation. https://www.globalvillagespace.com/india-defends-arms-exports-to-israel-amidst-gaza-genocide/

On the International Criminal Court’s #ICC warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin #Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and a Hamas leader for alleged war crimes, Jaishankar pointed out that #India is not a member of the ICC.

https://english.varthabharati.in/india/india-defends-arms-exports-to-israel-amid-allegations-of-use-against-palestinians

***
Thursday, Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) called on the #Biden Administration to stop sending #weapons to the United Arab Emirates #UAE amid reports that their weapons are being transferred to Rapid Support Forces in the #Sudanese Civil War. #US https://worldbeyondwar.org/a-u-s-senator-urges-halt-to-u-s-weapons-shipments-to-uae-for-slaughter-in-sudan/

December 7

***
#Russian shipyards obtained hundreds of European components for a fishing vessel designed by Dutch company #Damen, despite strict EU export bans following the invasion of Ukraine, was revealed on national TV.
https://nltimes.nl/2024/12/06/dutch-shipbuilder-damen-accused-trading-russia-despite-sanctions
https://nos.nl/nieuwsuur/artikel/2547231-sancties-omzeild-bij-project-van-scheepsbouwer-damen-in-rusland

***
The UN discussion on technology transfers and ‘peaceful uses’: Balancing non-proliferation and economic development. #SIPRI #development https://www.sipri.org/events/2024/un-discussion-technology-transfers-and-peaceful-uses-balancing-non-proliferation-and-economic

***
Something which was to be expected: the genocide must continue unhampered.

US investigates #Spain for denying #port access to arms #ships. Federal Maritime Commission probes Spain over reports of blocking vessels carrying US weapons to #Israel. https://evrimagaci.org/tpg/us-investigates-spain-for-denying-port-access-to-arms-ships-79931

El Pais - https://archive.is/RPV6V
AP - https://apnews.com/article/us-spain-israel-weapons-shipping-7cb890af47716111445f7726ce19ddb4
Wall Street Journal - https://www.wsj.com/business/logistics/u-s-ship-regulator-probes-spains-alleged-blocking-of-vessels-77d5b2e9
And the US Federal Register notice - https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/12/06/2024-28709/investigation-into-conditions-affecting-shipping-in-the-foreign-trade-and-denial-of-entry-of-vessels

December 6

***
Soms is teleurstelling juist goed.

Minister Brekelmans (Defensie) noemt het ‘zeer teleurstellend’ dat een NIDV-bijeenkomst (#wapenindustrie) in de #Kromhout Kazerne in Utrecht eerder dit jaar niet door kon gaan vanwege een blokkade van het gebouw. https://www.ad.nl/utrecht/minister-annuleren-evenement-in-kromhout-kazerne-door-pro-palestinabetogers-zeer-teleurstellend~a5c1ea60/

***
#Cyprus buys Israeli-made Advanced Barak-MX Air Defence, made by Israel's #IAI. It can intercept aircraft, drones, cruise missiles& ballistic missiles, has also been sold to #India #Azerbaijan & #Morocco. Reuters reports that it has already been delivered.https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2024-12-05/ty-article/.premium/cyprus-buys-israeli-made-advanced-barak-mx-air-defense-system/00000193-9719-dac2-add3-b75bd7660000

***
Western sanctions are working. They are gradually undermining Russia's ability to produce weapons, reports The Washington Post.

US officials expressed this opinion, some speaking on the condition of anonymity when discussing confidential intelligence. https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/western-sanctions-undermining-russia-s-arms-1733441426.html

***
Korea Herald tells story of David Packouz. a former arms trader in clip and text. He tells how arms trafficking actually works. https://news.koreaherald.com/global_insite/view.php?ud=x9abits

***
#Argentinian MoD traveled more than 20,000 km this week to ink an accord with his #Israeli counterpart pledging the countries to a “multi-year” effort to strengthen #military ties.
https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/israel-argentina-to-expand-defense-cooperation/

The country is led by a right wing government and protests are widespread.

December 5

***
UK’s #military-industrial strategy -& that of others- makes the world more dangerous. Instead governments should be working with trade unions to invest in green jobs & develop sustainable energy & energy-saving initiatives needed to tackle #climate crisis. https://cnduk.org/britains-military-industrial-strategy-makes-the-world-more-dangerous/

***
More, more & more on weapons:

#EU countries increased military spending by 10% to €279bn in 2023. The part of budgets spent on new equipment the highest since the start of data collection almost 2 decades ago #EDA reported.

https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/12/04/eu-wide-weapon-buying-boosts-blocs-defense-spending-to-record-in-2023/

report: https://eda.europa.eu/docs/default-source/brochures/1eda---defence-data-23-24---web---v3.pdf

European Union countries are expected to increase their combined defense spending to 326 billion euros ($342.6 billion) this year, a development likely to boost sales among arms contractors. https://www.wsj.com/business/eu-defense-spending-expected-to-hit-342-6-billion-in-boon-to-arms-makers-77dd4c4a

***
Pressure rising

The #UK government has said it is reviewing its decision to allow the continued export of #F35 fighter jet components in light of concerns that they could end up in #Israel, according to campaigners who are seeking to block the exports. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/uk-reviewing-f-35-fighter-jet-and-israel-arms-licences-say-campaigners

Declassified UK published on Wednesday a detailed investigation revealing that F-35 fighter jet components were secretly transported from RAF Marham in Norfolk, UK, to the US, with some potentially rerouted to "Israel" for the genocidal campaign in Gaza. https://english.almayadeen.net/news/politics/declassified-uk-reveals-secret-f-35-component-shipments-from

December 4

***
Is Erdogan stupid? Does he think his population is? Or does he just don't care as long as who critizises him ends up in jail.

Protestors against trade with Israel -included shipments of arms passing Turkey- called mouth pieces of the Zionist by Erdogan.

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20241203-protesters-interrupt-erdogan-to-oppose-trade-with-israel/

***
President Biden has asked Congress for an additional $24 billion! to support #Ukraine and replenish US weapons stockpiles, 2 US officials told VOA, as the administration continued to push out new aid packages for Kyiv before Biden leaves office on Jan. 20. https://www.voanews.com/a/biden-seeking-additional-24b-to-support-ukraine-replenish-us-weapons-stockpiles/7885060.html

***
Officially #Amsterdam based military firm #KNDS has appointed new CEO. He said: "As a leading company in European land defence, KNDS plays a central role in security policy considerations and efforts.” Franco German KNDS works on armoured vehicles & tanks. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/franco-german-land-systems-firm-knds-appoints-new-ceo/

***
Over 100 Jewish Canadians from the 'Jews Say No to Genocide Coalition' brought parts of Canadian Parliament Hill in Ottawa to a standstill today, occupying the Confederation Building to demand an immediate and full two way #arms #embargo on #Israel. https://www.pressenza.com/2024/12/over-a-hundred-jewish-canadians-take-over-parliamentary-building-in-ottawa-bringing-parts-of-the-federal-government-to-a-screeching-halt/

***
#Dutch #SOF train in West Africa. Did someone already question the wisdom of this? A country like Ivory Coast would be considered a #controversial destination for arms exports, so why isn't restrictive #control an issue when military knowledge is exported? https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2024/12/export-of-special-operations-knowledge.html

December 3

***
#Russian economy in crisis as #arms exports collapse by over 90% and mass bankruptcies loom.
The country has "failed" as an arms exporter, with a leading Putin ally warning the defence sector faces mass bankruptcies over high interest rates. https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1983671/russian-economy-arms-exports-collapse

***
Is South #Korea’s rejection of Ukraine’s #weapons request due to Trump or public objection?
S Korea is wary of doing so due to its laws. Additionally the opposition parties have threatened to impeach the defence minister if weapons were sent to #Ukraine. https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3288984/south-koreas-rejection-ukraines-weapons-request-due-trump-public-objection

Why South Korea Is Still Afraid To Provide Weapons To Ukraine. Article clearly lists arguments for Government and Opposition. https://zn.ua/eng/why-south-korea-is-still-afraid-to-provide-weapons-to-ukraine.html

***
Glimpse of the weapons and sensors to be fitted on the new #Pakistani naval vessels built by Dutch company #Damen Shipyards show the navy has signed contracts with #Thales, #MBDA and #Rheinmetall, Intelligence Online reports. [paywall] https://www.intelligenceonline.com/international-dealmaking/2024/12/03/pakistan-navy-s-discreet-contracts-with-mbda-and-thales-revealed,110347032-art

***
#Chip war ramps up with new #US restrictions on China.
Biden administration broadens limits on #Chinese access to advanced microchip technology, with Donald Trump expected to go even further.
#Dutch government follows US policy in respect to #ASML. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/dec/03/joe-biden-china-microchip-export-restrictions-law-changes

#China has announced it will block exports to the #US of critical raw materials, including gallium and germanium, in response to the Biden administration's increased export controls targeting the Chinese chip industry.
https://thechinabrief.substack.com/p/breaking-china-blocks-exports-of
https://english.news.cn/20241203/82640469de9b4334a8b896880720afda/c.html

***

The last 2 #Typhoons on order at the Warton facility are set to be delivered in 2025, meaning #BAE looks for export customers to keep a workforce it is counting on to make the 6th-gen fighter in the future. Potential for sales to #KSA & #Turkey mentioned. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/how-bae-plans-to-keep-its-eurofighter-typhoon-uk-final-assembly-line-alive-for-gcap/

Turkey? Bombed Kurds more than 4.000 times since the beginning of 2024. https://x.com/Osint613/status/1861016513123148169
Saudi Arabia? Photo internal bombing Awamiya (https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/not-aleppo-shock-extent-destruction-saudi-shia-town) as example:

***
#Japan’s shift from a very restrictive policy to active promotion of #arms production & sales reflects its broader strategy. Japan’s industry still faces hurdles. Companies remain reluctant to invest in export-oriented production for several reasons. https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/japans-defence-budget-surge-new-security-paradigm

December 2

***
The Dutch group #Damen and the #Romanian state-owned company 2MMS agreed to terminate the association contract signed in 2018 for the shared operation of #Mangalia Shipyard (Santierul Naval 2 Mai). https://www.romania-insider.com/damen-pulls-out-mangalia-shipyard-december-2024

***
ARI Arms wins historic $26 million contract to supply OR-4 assault rifles to IDF, replacing Tavor rifles and standardizing infantry weaponry as Israel pushes to bolster domestic arms production and reduce reliance on imports. https://www.ynetnews.com/business/article/rkkg00myxjl

***
Edinburgh-based investment firm, Baillie Gifford, a #Scottish firm has given financial backing to an #AI weapons start-up founded by a US tech billionaire who has links to Donald Trump. https://theferret.scot/baillie-gifford-investment-sparks-ai-weapons-debate/

***
Madrid boosts funding for #ICC and #UNRWA. The #Spanish government has also taken steps to limit arms exports to Israel and recognized “Palestine” as a state in May, in a coordinated move with #Ireland and #Norway. https://www.jns.org/madrid-boosts-funding-for-icc-and-unrwa/

***
We don't know about transports to #Israel of our F-35 components. "The global distribution of #F35 components is controlled by the US Government-led F-35 programme," Maria Eagle "Pilatus", #UK Minister of State for Defence said. https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-clarifies-role-in-f-35-component-transfers-to-israel/

***
Russian President Putin signed off the country’s new budget.

Around 32.5% of the 2025 budget — €119 bn —  has been allocated for national defense, up from a reported 28.3% in 2024, according to a document posted on a government website, AP reported.
https://www.politico.eu/article/putin-russia-budget-moscow-record-defense-spending-kremlin-war-ukraine/

***
Retweet @SIPRIorg: World’s top arms producers see revenues rise on the back of wars and regional tensions. The arms revenues of the SIPRI #Top100 companies totalled $632 billion in 2023, +4.2% from 2022. New #SIPRI data on the #ArmsIndustry is available now: https://www.sipri.org/media/press-release/2024/worlds-top-arms-producers-see-revenues-rise-back-wars-and-regional-tensions