Latest
on top (updated regularly):
October 29
***
***
Groot deel
#Oekraïense bevolking is de raketten en kou zat. Ook steeds meer
ondervraagde #Russen vinden het welletjes. Staakt-het-vuren, land
voor vrede? Zelensky & Poetin willen niet. En juist zij moeten
naar de #onderhandelingstafel gemasseerd worden.
https://archive.ph/cEzSu#selection-1141.0-1145.339
***
Scottish
#unions must challenge the military-industrial complex #MIC. As war
spreads around the world, the revolving door between government
ministers and arms companies demands #stronger trade union
#opposition, argues ARTHUR WEST.
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/f/scottish-unions-must-challenge-military-industrial-complex
***
Another world
is possible
This activist group chat has been blocking a #weapons shipment to #Israel for weeks.
A South African WhatsApp group working with #BDS has sparked a movement to #block a #ship carrying military explosives bound for Israel.
***
New kid on
the block spreads its wings. S. #Korean army said today it concluded
its #first #overseas #drills with tank and howitzer units in #Qatar
earlier this week, after it deployed some 100 troops to a desert
training ground in the #autocratic Emirate.
https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20241029003900315?section=national/defense
***
One of the
new European fighter planes currently developped:
#France, #Germany to hammer out next
steps for delay-prone #FCAS warplane
A top French acquisition official
stresses the aircraft's envisioned role in #nuclear deterrence.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/10/25/france-germany-to-hammer-out-next-steps-for-delay-prone-fcas-warplane
***
Krasse
taal:
Het kabinet investeert miljarden extra in wapens en oorlog, het defensiebudget gaat naar 24 miljard euro, terwijl het bezuinigt op sociale voorzieningen en maatregelen tegen de klimaatcrisis. De wapenindustrie wordt omarmd om zogenaamd de nationale veiligheid ...te waarborgen, maar in de praktijk dient zij alleen haar eigen belang. Leveranciers maken torenhoge winsten, terwijl de oorlogen die met deze verwoestende industrie in gang worden gezet destructief zijn voor mens en milieu. https://www.trouw.nl/opinie/opinie-waar-zijn-de-vredesbewegingen-in-nederland~bdd30681/
October 28
***
#Korean
Hanyang #University will establish a specialized research institute
focusing on #quantum, artificial intelligence #AI, and #military
fields in 2024.https://www.mk.co.kr/en/society/11151605
***
#India opens
a private military aircraft #production facility; part of a policy to
minimize reliance on military imports.
10 of the 56 C-295 planes ordered (2021) at #Airbus will be made in Spain, the rest in India.
Branches of #Bharat will be involved. https://www.luxtimes.lu/world/india-beefs-up-defence-production-with-airbus-plant-in-gujarat/24011787.html
***
The #US Army
recently selected 5 companies to demonstrate their existing platforms
as part of its effort to modernize its sp #howitzer systems, with
Israeli #Elbit Systems among them. The others are #Rheinmetall, #BAE
Systems, #Hanwha, & #GeneralDynamics.
https://militaryleak.com/2024/10/17/us-army-awards-contracts-for-self-propelled-howitzer-modernization-performance-demonstration/
***
#India
has made a significant shift in its defense export policy, now
actively supplying lethal #arms to various countries, with #Armenia
being as its largest customer for finished weapon systems,
Azerbaijani News reports, citing Indian media.
https://news.az/news/armenia-among-top-buyers-of-indian-arms-media
October 27
***
Building the
new arsenals of the West.
#Rheinmetall to build four weapon manufacturing plants in #Ukraine, with one already operational, according to Rheinmetall's director, Armin Papperger. https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/four-rheinmetall-plants-set-to-launch-in-1729944205.html
***
#Dutch
government announced supplemental #controls for #exports of certain
emerging technology. Policy into force 01/Dec/24 (enforced by
Regeling aanvullende controlemaatregelen op de Verordening producten
voor tweeërlei gebruik).
- https://sanctionsnews.bakermckenzie.com/the-netherlands-to-introduce-supplemental-export-controls-for-emerging-technology-items/
- https://zoek.officielebekendmakingen.nl/stcrt-2024-33838.html
***
Citizen of
Orlando sentenced to 15 months in prison for conspiracy to defraud
the US, conspiracy to commit wire fraud money laundering, violate the
Export Control Reform Act, & violating the Arms Export Control
Act connected to military components.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/defense-contractor-sentenced-15-months-prison-fraud-money-laundering-and-unlawful-export
***
#Italian firm
#Fincantieri has signed a memorandum of understanding with #Qatari
#Barzan Holdings to jointly develop a short-range anti-#drone radar.
Dubbed “Omega360.”
https://www.fincantieri.com/en/media/press-releases/2024/fincantieri-group-signs-mou-with-barzan-holdings-for-anti-drone-radar-system-in-qatar/
***
Tension and
conflict, what is it good for?
The #US has approved $2 billion in arms sales to #Taiwan, including the first-time delivery to the self-ruled island of an advanced surface-to-air #missile defence system #NASAMS, in a move sure to anger #China.
***
#Dutch
contribution to security in South Asia, arming major Chinese ally,
#Pakistan. The #OPV 2600, equipped with cutting-edge tech &
systems is designed by #Damen to defencing Pakistan’s maritime
interests and its operational capacity around the globe.
https://www.maritimemontering.com/completed-interior-of-opv-2600-for-pakistan-navy/
***
Een jaar na
de dood van Wagnerleider Prigozjin zijn Russische #huurlingen nog
altijd actief in #Afrika. Met de komst van milities, zoals het Africa
Corps, is het landschap versplinterd. Dimitri Zufferey, onderzoeker
bij All Eyes On #Wagner, geeft
uitleg.https://www.mo.be/interview/dimitri-zufferey-wagner-bestaat-nog-maar-het-is-niet-duidelijk-wie-er-aan-het-hoofd-staat
Is
Wagner a Model for Other Mercenary Groups?
Lessons from the rise and fall of Wagner in Jack Margolin’s “The Wagner Group: Inside Russia’s Mercenary Army” https://www.stimson.org/2024/is-wagner-a-model-for-other-mercenary-groups/
***
Retweet
SIPRI: What are the potential escalation risks at the #space–#nuclear
nexus? This new @SIPRI Essay by Nivedita Raju and Sarah
Erickson considers some of the difficulties in addressing this nexus
in existing #multilateral forums and suggests ways to overcome them
https://www.sipri.org/commentary/essay/2024/bringing-space-nuclear-nexus-multilateral-discussions
***
Germany approved over €94m
in arms exports to Israel, angering rights groups
European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights says it is seeking to halt further exports, which it claims endanger lives of Gaza’s civilians and violate international law.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/germany-approves-over-100-million-in-arms-exports-to-israel-angering-rights-groups/
***
To prepare for
war.
With trench warfare back in Europe, the Royal Netherlands Army would like to dig ditches to train for wat at NATO’s eastern flank – but environmental regulations make taking a shovel to its exercise ranges all but impossible. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/10/24/dutch-military-faces-a-tough-mission-finding-space-to-prepare-for-war/
October 26
***
Defence
Minister Wellington Koo announced the indigenous Advanced Defence
#Fighter #ADF program was being cut. He cited immature technologies,
eye-watering costs and system integration challenges, saying #Taiwan
instead will acquire aircraft off the shelf.
https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/taiwans-advanced-defense-fighter-undone-cost-politics
***
The UK
government has approved more than 3,000 export licences for military
sales to countries which it believes have questionable records on
human rights, MPs say. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-23336914
***
#Dutch #Damen
Shipyards Group and idD #Portugal Defense signed a letter of intent
to boost #collaboration in shipbuilding and further integrate
Portuguese industry into the global #naval economy.
https://www.defensehere.com/en/damen-and-idd-portugal-defense-sign-collaboration-agreement
***
Turkish
government and industry officials were rushed out of the country’s
largest defense show on Wednesday following an attack on TAI or TUSAS
near Ankara. The assault took place on the 2nd day of the country’s
largest arms fair, Saha Expo (Oct 22-26).
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/10/23/attack-on-turkish-defense-firm-clears-the-halls-of-local-arms-fair/
***
Spain has
frozen the purchase of arms from Israel, the country's Defense
Ministry told leading daily El Pais on Wednesday.
https://www.yenisafak.com/en/world/spain-has-frozen-purchase-of-arms-from-israel-defense-ministry-3693338
https://elpais.com/espana/2024-10-23/defensa-responde-a-sumar-que-tambien-ha-suspendido-las-compras-de-armas-a-israel.html
Even
to German FA Minsiter Baerbock arms sales to Israel pose a dilemma.
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20241023-germany-baerbock-says-arms-exports-to-israel-pose-dilemma-amid-risks-to-international-law/
but
Offers No Change
https://qudsnen.co/german-foreign-minister-admits-dilemma-over-israel-arms-exports-but-offers-no-change/
October 23
***
#Catch22?
High interest rates may lead #Russian state industrial conglomerate #Rostec to stop exporting high-tech goods such as aeroplanes, ships and air defence systems, the TASS news agency quoted Rostec head #SergeiChemezov as saying on Wednesday. https://www.xm.com/research/markets/allNews/reuters/russias-rostec-may-stop-hightech-exports-due-to-high-rates-says-company-head-53951032
***
Israel-based
#SpearUAV unveiled the latest in its Viper family of #kamikaze drones
to defend protect land vehicles and installations from top-attack
weapons.
https://www.suasnews.com/2024/10/spearuav-leverages-ai-for-next-gen-defense-viper-i-intercepts-hostile-drones/
"improved lethality and survivability for forces operating in
dynamic and contested environments."
***
The first
F-35B landed on Japanese big-deck (heli carrier) JS Kaga off
California.
https://news.usni.org/2024/10/21/u-s-f-35b-lands-on-japanese-warship-off-california-u-s-canadian-navy-ships-transit-taiwan-strait
***
#Ukraine
expects to receive $1.6 #billion from the #US to finance domestic
production of long-range #weapons, boosting the country’s ability
to #strike military targets in #Russia, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy
said.
https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/business/politics/2024/10/22/us-to-provide-16-billion-for-kyivs-long-range-arms-production/
***
How obedient
is #Lockheed Martin, the largest global military company, when it
comes to stick to the rule of #law?
https://violationtrackerglobal.goodjobsfirst.org/?company=Lockheed&order=penalty_year&sort=desc
***
#MIC
German arms maker #Rheinmetall will produce gun barrels in the UK as
part of a sweeping new defence pact between Berlin and London aimed
at deepening military co-operation. And more on militarising Western
Europe all motivted by 'Russia-Ukraine'.
https://ft.com/content/19199b16-1418-4a87-8774-689428008244
#MIC German arms maker #Rheinmetall will produce gun barrels in the UK as part of a sweeping new defence pact between Berlin and London aimed at deepening military co-operation. And more on militarising Western Europe all motivted by 'Russia-Ukraine'. https://ft.com/content/19199b16-1418-4a87-8774-689428008244
***
#MIC German
arms maker #Rheinmetall will produce gun barrels in the UK as part of
a sweeping new defence pact between Berlin and London aimed at
deepening military co-operation. And more on militarising Western
Europe all motivted by 'Russia-Ukraine'.
https://www.ft.com/content/19199b16-1418-4a87-8774-689428008244
***
60% Of
Germans oppose military support for Israel, despite the recent
government decision to continue arms supplies, according to a new
survey released on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.
https://en.tempo.co/read/1932013/survey-60-of-german-citizens-oppose-military-support-for-israel
***
The #US State
Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign
Military Sale to the Government of the #Netherlands of #Radio
Equipment and related equipment for an estimated cost of $1.42
#billion.
https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/netherlands-radio-equipment
***
#Australia announced this week it was buying $4.7
billion in American-made SM-2 and SM-6 missiles — two
of the world’s most advanced air defense interceptors — in a
#colossal foreign military sale.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2024/10/22/australia-announces-47-billion-purchase-of-us-air-defense-missiles/
***
The #US added
more than two dozen entities to a trade blacklist Monday over alleged
support of #weapons and #drone development programs in #Pakistan and
#Iran, and for other issues including aiding #Russia’s war effort
in Ukraine. https://www.arabnews.pk/node/2576221/pakistan
***
Er zijn
krachten die baat hebben bij oorlog en er alles aan zullen doen om
het gevoel van onveiligheid te versterken. In de eerste plaats de
wapenindustrie.
"Alle oorlogen worden uiteindelijk
beëindigd. Maar geen nood, voor het geval de wereldvrede toch
onverhoopt uit mocht breken, is het Westen alvast weer aan het
voorsorteren op een volgende oorlog (...)."
https://jacobin.nl/wapenindustrie-geschiedenis-anne-ruth-wertheim/
***
The
troubles of a fighter jet seller, who hasn't its technology on track;
poor them. (2023 military revenue: $64.7bn. )
Prolonged #F35 negotiations take a bite out of #Lockheed Martin’s third quarter results.
October 22
***
On 29/11/23
the US Dep of Justice made a startling announcement: an #Indian
government official had tried to #assassinate a #US citizen on US
soil.
(https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-charges-connection-foiled-plot-assassinate-us-citizen-new-york)
It wasn't the 1st Indian that officials have been accused of trying to kill. https://www.foreignaffairs.com/india/mystery-indias-assassination-plots
***
Arms #export
for profit by #Ukraine?
#Kyiv may lift an export ban on #drone systems to generate revenue for local companies, a move one manufacturer argues is overdue.
***
In a speech
to the Bundestag #AfD leader called for an end to arms exports to
both Israel & Ukraine, and said that Germany needs to put a stop
to its “one-sided partisanship” when it comes to Israel. The move
has caused a sharp split within the AfD itself.
https://rmx.news/article/germany-afd-leader-rejects-arms-exports-and-one-sided-support-for-israel-calls-for-end-to-blanket-islamophobia/
***
#Damen
contracts Alfa Laval for next generation #Dutch ASW #frigate
project.
The company will deliver skid-built
fuel oil separators, capable of handling various fuel types, and
more.
https://www.naval-technology.com/news/damen-contracts-alfa-laval/
***
#Boeing
closed a deal this month to sell Digital Receiver Technology, which
makes wireless equipment used by #intelligence services, to #Thales
Defense & Security, the company said on Sunday. The aeronautic
giant looks to shore up its struggling finances.
https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/boeing-sells-small-defense-surveillance-155236322.html
***
War what is
it good for?
#Finland exported a total of €333m worth of military & civilian weapons in 2023, according to a report by the peace & security think tank SaferGlobe.
The amount marks the highest recorded level since 2002 when monitoring started. https://yle.fi/a/74-20119104
***
#US Dep of
Commerce is investigating #Taiwan #Semiconductor Manufacturing
Company on determining whether #TSMC supplied Chinese #Huawei with
mobile and #AI chips, either directly or through other companies.
https://www.techedt.com/us-investigates-tsmc-over-alleged-chip-sales-to-huawei
Reuters:
“#TSMC told US of chip in #Huawei product after TechInsights
finding”
An advanced chip manufactured by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company was reportedly found in sanctioned Chinese tech giant Huawei’s latest #AI chips.
https://www.reuters.com/technology/tsmc-told-us-chip-huawei-device-after-techinsights-finding-source-says-2024-10-22/
TSMC case highlights a troubling paradox: as nations become
increasingly dependent on key foreign companies for tech advancement,
these firms gain the power to undermine national security measures in
an effort to play both sides of the tech & geopolitical battle.
https://www.atalayar.com/en/opinion/bjorn-beam/new-threats-in-the-tech-race-between-china-and-the-u-s/20241022060000206449.html
#TMSC has come out
against a report claiming the world’s biggest maker of advanced
chips stands at the centre of a US investigation into a possible
export-controls violation that may have helped mainland-based Huawei
Technologies.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/3283440/tsmc-challenges-report-us-investigating-whether-it-made-chips-huawei
Taiwan
Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSM) has suspended shipments to an
unnamed customer after discovering that one of its chips ended up in
a Huawei product, according to a source familiar with the matter.
https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/tsmc-halts-chip-shipments-after-huawei-product-violation
***
#Saudi
Arabia was the world's 2nd-largest #arms importer in 2019–23, with
the US supplying 75% of the #weapons. Riyadh’s extensive
cooperation with the west on security and military matters may make
#BRICS membership a precarious choice.
https://amwaj.media/article/deep-dive-saudi-arabia-and-brics-a-balancing-act
October 21
Tata Bye Bye
Campaign is lauched to urge the withdrawal of #Tata Group as the lead sponsor of the New York Marathon, claiming the conglomerate is complicit in Israel’s ongoing war on #Gaza. https://maktoobmedia.com/world/activists-launch-tata-bye-bye-campaign-to-end-tata-groups-sponsorship-of-nyc-marathon-over-israel-ties/
How about the civil/#military Indian colossus in the #Netherlands?
***
#Scholz's told
reporters that his government recently approved arms sales to Turkey,
adding "there will be more." The #EFA acquisition project
is part of its efforts to modernize the air force, particularly as it
faces delays in deploying its indigenous #KAAN warplanes and
procuring additional #F-16s from the US.
Germany initially opposed the sale due to concerns over #Turkey's military actions in Syria, but recent geopolitical events, incl. tensions in the Middle East, have prompted Germany to reconsider its decision.
http://www.china.org.cn/world/Off_the_Wire/2024-10/20/content_117495720.htm
#German government is authorizing large-scale shipments to
Turkey, reported dpa.
As of October 13, 69 licences worth
€103m have been issued so far in 2024, including #arms worth
€840,000 the Economy Ministry said in response to a parliamentary
question.
https://www.dailyfinland.fi/europe/40037/Germany-to-export-%E2%82%AC103m-defence-equipment-to-Turkey-in-2024
***
Russia and
North Korea still have access to components produced in the West for
arms production.
Therefore, Ukrainian FA Minister Sybiha
urged allies to «respond decisively, strengthen sanctions and export
controls».
https://112.ua/en/u-zbitij-nad-ukrainou-pivnicnokorejskij-raketi-viavleno-zahidni-detali-43808
October 20
***
#SIPRI
advice: Making the most of the EU catch-all control on
#cyber-#surveillance #exports.
https://www.sipri.org/commentary/topical-backgrounder/2024/making-most-eu-catch-all-control-cyber-surveillance-exports
#European #peace organizations warn about the militarization of Europe and propose new security policies to achieve peace in the continent. https://stopwapenhandel.org/european-peace-organizations-warn-about-the-militarization-of-europe-and-propose-new-security-policies-to-achieve-peace-in-the-continent/
***
Don’t just
oppose war, oppose the arms industry.
RAE STREET recommends a useful guide
that scotches the misguided belief that the arms industry is needed
for the economy and jobs.
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/dont-just-oppose-war-oppose-arms-industry
***
Chinese
national pleads guilty in plot to illegally export #US tech to
#China. Lin Chen knowingly attempted to buy a wafer-cutting machine
used to process electronic #chips to eventually sell to a company on
the Department of Commerce’s Entity List.
https://www.courthousenews.com/chinese-national-pleads-guilty-in-plot-to-illegally-export-us-tech-to-china/
***
#Airbus
zet bijl in de afd. Defence & Space. Het bedrijf wil 2.500
#medewerkers kwijt nu het bedrijf last heeft van verstoorde
toeleveringsketens & ‘snelle veranderingen in #oorlogsvoering’.
De gevolgen voor de vestigingen in Leiden en Oegstgeest onbekend.
https://www.leidschdagblad.nl/regio/leiden/airbus-reorganiseert-en-bezuinigt-gevolgen-voor-vestigingen-in-leidse-regio-onduidelijk/23210539.html
October 18
***
Briefing
paper from #Omega on the role the #European region plays in the
global trade in equipment used for #torture and other ill-treatment.
It can be downloaded from here -
https://omegaresearchfoundation.org/reports/europe-regional-briefing-on-the-trade-in-law-enforcement-equipment-used-for-torture-and-other-ill-treatment/
***
#Damen brings
W&O (https://www.wosupply.com/)
on board #F126 frigate program. W&O is based in the Netherlands
and a supplier of valves, actuated valves, piping systems, and
speciality products to the marine market.
https://www.marinelog.com/news/damen-brings-wo-on-board-f126-frigate-program/
***
UK Campaign
Against Arms Trade @CAATuk published a briefing setting out what they
know about the government's decision on 2 September, the F-35
exemption and why it matters, and other unknowns about the decision.
https://caat.org.uk/publications/the-uk-governments-partial-suspension-of-arms-export-licences-to-israel-and-the-f-35-exemption/
***
Ardi Veliu
will manage the #Albanian state-owned Arms Production and Trading
Company "#KAYO" sh.a. established in September of this
year. It will be responsible for the production, demilitarization and
trade of weapons, ammo, equipment and military tech.
https://www.voxnews.al/english/aktualitet/me-rroge-mbi-55-milione-leke-ne-muaj-ardi-veliu-do-te-menaxhoje-prodh-i76805
***
Turkish
defense officials have refuted claims that the sale of #Eurofighter
jets to #Turkey by a European consortium is subject to any
conditions.
https://www.kibrispostasi.com/c140-DAILY_NEWS/n537145-turkey-denies-conditions-in-eurofighter-jet-sale
October
17
***
#Israeli companies
have been banned from participating in the #Euronaval #arms trade
show in #France, organizers of the event said on Wednesday. It is the
second time this year that France has banned Israeli companies from a
major defense exhibition.
https://www.rfi.fr/en/international/20241016-israel-slams-macron-as-a-disgrace-over-french-arms-fair-ban
Protesters
opposed the #Japan Int. Aerospace Exhibition in Tokyo, claiming it
was a “de facto @weapons #trade #show”, they criticised
collaborations with Israeli arms manufacturers, and demanded an end
on cooperation with #Israeli companies.
https://www.arabnews.jp/en/japan/article_132914/
October 16
The
#Labour Party’s largest-ever #donation came from a hedge fund that
stood to profit from Israel’s war in Gaza, openDemocracy can
reveal. #Quadrature Capital held shares in #arms companies that make
#Israeli fighter jets and bombs.
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/dark-money-investigations/keir-starmer-labour-party-quadrature-donation-arms-companies-israel-war-gaza/
October
15
***
The #Labour Party’s
largest-ever #donation came from a hedge fund that stood to profit
from Israel’s war in Gaza, openDemocracy can reveal. #Quadrature
Capital held shares in #arms companies that make #Israeli fighter
jets and bombs.
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/dark-money-investigations/keir-starmer-labour-party-quadrature-donation-arms-companies-israel-war-gaza/
October 14
***
The new kid
on the arms export block: War torn DR Congo #DRC in talks with
#Indian civil/military industry Hindustan Aeronautics ltd. #HAL for
Tejas MK2 #fighter jet. (#Botswana considers acquiring several Tejas
fighter planes.)
https://www.military.africa/2024/10/dr-congo-in-talks-with-hal-for-tejas-mk2-jet/
***
Dutch will
provide €400m to jointly develop & produce drones with Ukraine
for recce, defence & attack, mainly in the air but also on land &
at sea, MoD Brekelmans said on a surprise visit to Kyiv/Kharkiv.
Dutch military support 4 Ukraine reached €3.76bn.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/10/07/netherlands-delivers-f-16s-to-ukraine-provides-440m-for-drones/
Tijdens een bezoek
aan Kharkiv en Kyiv maakt minister Brekelmans bekend dat Nederland
haar voortrekkersrol in de steun aan Oekraïne blijft invullen door
ongeveer 400 miljoen euro beschikbaar te stellen voor een actieplan
drones.
https://www.defensie.nl/actueel/nieuws/2024/10/05/na-f-16s-kondigt-brekelmans-in-oekraine-actieplan-drones-aan
***
Comment: To
strengthen democracy or violent autocratic rule?
To cash petrodollars ot to compete with
China for this lucrative market?
Tweet
with comment @ForumArmsTrade: With
Friday's #FMS notifications of #Hellfire and #Sidewinder missiles,
tank/artillery ammo to #SaudiArabia, Biden admin has now told
Congress of more than $10 billion in sales via the Foreign Military
Sales process. See resource page for complete list:
https://forumarmstrade.org/us-saudi-arms.html
***
Investigation?
No, if the clues really do lead to Zelensky or even to Washington,
the geopolitical consequences would be unforeseeable, including for
the future of NATO. Hide-and-seek surrounding the most explosive
political thriller of our era continues.
https://monde-diplomatique.de/artikel/!6040380
October
13
***
#India and #Pakistan
fuel Central Asian #arms race with military sales to #Armenia,
#Azerbaijan.
The influx of military hardware is shifting the military balance in the region, potentially undermining fragile peace efforts.
October 12
***
#US reviews a
10-year-old contract by #Brazil for 36 #Gripen fighters, #SAAB said.
The new probe by federal prosecutors opens legal review of the
factors that led Brazil to select the Gripen over the Dassault Rafale
and the #Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/us-probes-2014-sale-gripen-fighters-brazil
***
Report: #US
#Spending on #Israel’s Military Operations and Related U.S.
Operations in the Region, October 7, 2023 – September 30, 2024.
https://watson.brown.edu/costsofwar/files/cow/imce/papers/2023/2024/Costs%20of%20War_US%20Support%20Since%20Oct%207%20FINAL%20v2.pdf
***
#Spain's PM
Sanchez urges international community to #stop selling #weapons to
#Israel.
https://www.reuters.com/world/spains-pm-sanchez-urges-international-community-stop-selling-weapons-israel-2024-10-11/
***
Old
report by Bloomberg & investigations by the US
Federal Gov. revealed that the #RTX Corp. (formerly #Raytheon Tech)
willfully #overcharged multiple US allies, incl. #Taiwan, on various
weapon sales.
https://www.overtdefense.com/2024/10/11/raytheon-allegedly-overcharges-taiwan-for-radar-and-weapon-systems/
Taiwan is going for a refund:
https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2024/10/05/2003824824
NEDER,LANDS: De Amerikaanse #wapenfabrikant #RTX,
voorheen #Raytheon Technologies, treft een schikking met de
Amerikaanse justitie in een corruptiezaak en betaalt $290 mln aan de
overheid. https://fd.nl/bedrijfsleven/1533972/wapenfabrikant-rtx-sc
Bit more Raytheon Company to Pay Over $950M in
Connection with Defective Pricing, Foreign Bribery, and Export
Control Schemes
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/raytheon-company-pay-over-950m-connection-defective-pricing-foreign-bribery-and-export
https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2024/10/16/rtx-agrees-to-pay-252m-penalty-to-resolve-qatar-bribery-charges/
Defending 'our norms and values' and
being corrupt at the same time. All possible at the same time for 2nd
largest military company in the world.
https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2024/10/16/rtx-agrees-to-pay-252m-penalty-to-resolve-qatar-bribery-charges/
RTX to pay $950 million to resolve federal charges of fraud, bribery
RTX entered into two three-year deferred prosecution agreements as part of a settlement with the Justice Department. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/10/rtx-to-pay-950-million-to-resolve-federal-charges-of-fraud-bribery/
October 11
***
Kohesio:
discover EU projects in your region.
What about #Thales Nederland in the
past few years? How many millions did it get from the #EU in
Brussels?
https://kohesio.ec.europa.eu/en/search?keywords=Thales%20Nederland
***
De kosten van
nieuwe #kerncentrales worden systematisch onderschat. Maar om welke
bedragen gaat het dan? Welke kosten zullen er zijn als we in
Nederland nieuwe kerncentrales gaan bouwen? In een nieuw rapport zet
onderzoeksbureau Profundo de cijfers...
https://wisenederland.nl/artikel/de-financiering-van-kerncentrales/
***
Turkey
expects Germany to move forward with its long-discussed sale of 40
#Eurofighter jets, sources said Thursday.
https://www.dailysabah.com/business/defense/turkiye-expects-positive-signs-from-germany-on-eurofighters
However it is an advise to the German
Ministry of FA to do a Google search first:
https://www.google.com/search?client=ubuntu&channel=fs&q=fighters+Turkey+bombardment+%22human+rights%22&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8
#Germany is reportedly reconsidering #Turkey’s request to
acquire #Eurofighter jets. The request comes amid growing tensions
and shifting geopolitical alignments in the Eastern Mediterranean and
broader Middle East, where Turkey plays a crucial role.
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20241011-germany-reconsiders-turkiyes-request-to-purchase-eurofighter-jets/
***
#France's
strong ties to #Israel’s military industry remain intact,
suggesting that #Macron’s rhetoric does not translate into
meaningful action.
EI
(https://electronicintifada.net/blogs/david-cronin/france-arms-israel-despite-macrons-claims)
uncovered that #Thales has significant influence on the #EU’s arms
policy.
https://theparadise.ng/france-continues-to-supply-arms-to-israel-contrary-to-macrons-statements-the-liberty-beacon/
***
#Dutch &
#Belgium maritime Special forces are going to work together globally.
To organise this cooperation both countries are going to set up a
joint task force, the so-called Combined Special Operations Maritime
Task Group (C-#SOMTG). #SOF
https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2024/10/09/special-forces-van-nederland-en-belgie-gaan-wereldwijd-met-elkaar-in-zee
***
#Dutch state
sued by Palestinian & Dutch organisations, and Jewish groups that
don't support the Israeli government over failure to stop Israel's
alleged violations of int law.
It is unclear how far the case will go against one of Israel's closest allies. https://www.jpost.com/international/article-824103
***
Alleen al
speculeren over een staakt-het-vuren is slecht voor de
#aandelenkoersen van #wapenfabrikanten.
https://nl.marketscreener.com/koers/aandeel/RHEINMETALL-AG-436527/nieuws/AANDELEN-IN-FOCUS-2-Wapenhandel-in-beweging-door-debat-over-staakt-het-vuren-48042219/
Waarom zitten mensen met dergelijke belangen eigenlijk zo vaak aan tafel als het om vrede en veiligheid gaat?
***
#Wapenwedloop
Doordat steeds meer landen steeds meer wapens kopen, ontstaat een wapenwedloop. Conflicten worden niet meer opgelost met diplomatie maar met geweld en dreigen met geweld.
https://stopwapenhandel.org/thema/wapenwedloop/
***
De #militaire
sector veroorzaakt naar schatting 5,5% van de mondiale uitstoot van
#broeikasgassen. Door 'n lobby v/h Pentagon vallen militaire
activiteiten niet onder het Verdrag van Parijs en heeft de militaire
sector geen verplichting om te verduurzamen.
https://stopwapenhandel.org/thema/klimaatcrisis/
***
#Brazil has
delayed a contract with Israeli company #Elbit Systems for 36
howitzers, originally signed in April, amid deliberations by the
Brazilian government over Israel’s war against Hamas. The order has
only be #paused.
https://thedefensepost.com/2024/10/10/brazil-contract-suspension-israel/
***
#Elbit
Systems to build #bomb factory as Israel shifts toward
self-sufficient #arms production. It wants even to produce the US
Mk-84 in Israel (licensed?). Policy shift reacts to arms #embargoes
and “soft embargoes” on Israel.
https://www.theyeshivaworld.com/news/israel-news/2321949/elbit-systems-to-build-bomb-factory-as-israel-shifts-toward-self-sufficient-arms-production.html
***
About 80% of
Flemish military equipment exported in 2023 was destined for the
industry in another European or Western country. Germany and the
United States received the largest share, with licences worth 58
million euros each. #Belgium #arms_export
https://www.belganewsagency.eu/flanders-licensed-arms-exports-worth-164-million-euros-in-2023
***
#Ukrainian
authorities are considering lifting a ban on #arms #exports,
introduced in 2022. Move is aimed at attracting additional financial
resources to support domestic production, in particular drones, the
Financial Times wrote.
https://avia-pro.net/news/na-ukraine-obsuzhdayut-vozmozhnost-otmeny-zapreta-na-eksport-oruzhiya
https://www.ft.com/content/aec4c3b3-56ab-4774-b342-250d5445ba6e
***
Former defence
secretary Ben Wallace takes role advising Saudi Arabia.
Ex-Tory minister hired by CTRD, which
works with Saudi government, to advise on reform, governance and
security.
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2024/oct/09/former-defence-secretary-ben-wallace-takes-advisory-role-at-saudi-firm
October 9
***
Arms Embargo:
Will #Israeli-owned companies be barred From Selling to Israel, Ided
Yaron asks in Haaretz.
Overview of reactions from a number of countries (Canada, Germany, and UK) and foreign joint ventures and subsidiaries of #Elbit, #IAI and #Rafael. https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2024-10-09/ty-article/.premium/arms-embargo-will-israeli-owned-foreign-companies-be-barred-from-selling-to-israel/00000192-678d-de48-a192-77ade56c0000
***
Ursula von
der Leyen’s Troubled Tenure as German Defence Minister and Her
Controversial Push for an EU Commissioner for Defence.
https://eutoday.net/ursula-von-der-leyens-troubled-tenure-as-german-defence-minister/
***
#Marine werkt
aan kennis op een postzegel in de Maritime Maintenance Valley, Den
Helder. Daar moeten marine en veel bedrijven de handen ineenslaan,
kennis overdragen en de krachten bundelen.
Met korte reactie #Damen, #RHMarine, Royal #IHS en #Thales. #MIC https://magazines.defensie.nl/allehens/2024/07/05_maintenance-valley
October 8
***
#Azerbaijan
unveils #Israeli-made SandCat armoured vehicle with Spike missiles at
#ADEX2024.
Between 2015 and 2018, Azerbaijan
purchased 100 SandCat APC vehicles as well as 10 additional vehicles
carrying 120mm self-propelled mortars from Israel’s Plasan.
https://www.israeldefense.co.il/en/node/6328
ADEX2024 itself also reports the buy in a much longer article
with more connextions to the war against Armenians.
https://adex.az/en/news/azerbaijan-brings-upgraded-israeli-made-plasan-sandcat-stormer-with-spike-nlos-missiles-to-adex-2024-8991
However not Israel but #Turkey is the most present exhibitor at the
fair.
***
Uit een
oproep van Oproep van de Palestijnse Algemene Federatie van Vakbonden
"We hebben veel waardering voor de rol van de havenarbeidersvakbonden in Afrika, Europa en andere havens bij het ondernemen van actie om de stroom wapens te stoppen en de financiële netwerken
te verstoren die het
bombarderen van ons volk financieren. Wij vragen u om te weigeren mee
te werken aan militaire zendingen naar Israël via alle militaire
schepen en logistieke bedrijven, vooral Maersk en ZIM.”
- Zie tekst: https://www.globalinfo.nl/nieuws/oproep-van-palestijnse-vakbonden-na-een-jaar-verzet-tegen-genocide/
- English: https://laborforpalestine.net/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Bilingual-Appeal-from-the-PGFTU.091124.pdf
***
Chief of
#Colombian Navy said the cooperation with Dutch #Damen to build
#frigate arises from the need of the Colombian Navy to renew its
surface strategic capabilities & to strengthen the national naval
industry through tech & knowledge transfer.
https://www.navalnews.com/interviews/2024/10/interview-with-the-chief-of-the-colombian-navy/
***
#ViktorBout
Is Trying to Sell Weapons to the #Houthis, Western Officials Say.
The Russian arms dealer, who was freed
in a prisoner exchange with the United States, is negotiating with
the militant group in #Yemen.
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/07/us/politics/viktor-bout-houthis-weapons.htm
***
#Damen
delivers rocket landing platform to #BlueOrigin, Jeff Bezos’ own
private space company
(https://www.astronomy.com/space-exploration/a-look-at-new-glenn-blue-origins-heavy-lift-booster-rocket/).
https://maritime-executive.com/corporate/damen-delivers-rocket-landing-platform-to-blue-origin
October 7
***
"as
blazing as #IronNet started, it burned out"
Founded by a former director of the
#NSA & stacked with elite members of the US intelligence
establishment, IronNet promised it was going to revolutionize the way
governments & companies combat cyberattacks.
https://apnews.com/article/keith-alexander-ironnet-cybersecurity-nsa-bankruptcy-eddd67f3a1b312face21c29c59400e05
***
Als je zou
schrijven: "Volgens @CMC_NATO Rob Bauer moeten we € 10 miljard
tot 20 miljard extra uitgeven aan Defensie," klinkt dat minder
abstract en ernstiger (BBP is in 2024 net boven de 1 biljoen.)
Het is 'n bak geld die hij er bij wil:
zo'n 2,5-5% van de Rijksbegroting.
Retweet
met comment: @Buitenhoftv Voor afschrikking
en verdediging is '2 procent geen bodem, maar een kelder'. Volgens
@CMC_NATO Rob Bauer moeten we naar 3 à 4 procent defensiebudget.
'Het dreigingsbesef is in westelijke richting aan het opschuiven'.
#buitenhof https://x.com/Buitenhoftv/status/1842879594929549437
Maar
@Buitenhoftv vraag nou 'n volgende keer: Wat betekent dat in euro's?
Maak vooraf alvast 'n lijstje met waarop niet bespaard hoeft te
worden als je dat bedrag niet in de krijgsmacht stopt. Dan ziet de
kijker dat het een enorme keus is die ten koste gaat van andere
zaken.
***
In recent
years #Germany has significantly reduced arms sales to #Turkey.
However, according to Der Spiegel, the situation seems to be
changing. Recently it gave the green light to the export of German
#arms to Turkey for a total of more than €250m.
https://www.spiegel.de/politik/ampel-regierung-genehmigt-wieder-waffen-exporte-in-die-tuerkei-a-dc5d8cb6-f602-4fdd-9e1e-a9251db30f9f
***
RTX
subsidiary Pratt & Whitney has secured a not-to-exceed $1.3
billion contract to continue developing an upgrade for the F-35’s
engine, the Pentagon announced Monday evening.
https://breakingdefense.com/2024/10/pentagon-awards-pratt-1-3-billion-to-continue-work-on-f-35-engine-upgrade/
October
6
***
#Macron urges countries
to ‘stop delivering #weapons’ to #Israel for war in #Gaza.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s
call comes as the war in Gaza grinds on and Israel’s conflict with
Hezbollah escalates farther into Lebanon.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/10/05/macron-france-stop-arms-israel-gaza-war/
Israel says France's call for halting sales of arms used in
Gaza is a 'disgrace'
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/frances-macron-says-sales-arms-used-gaza-should-be-halted-2024-10-05/
Palestinian Foreign Ministry welcomes Macron's call for halt to arms exports to Israel. https://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/149963
October 5
***
Jeremy
#Corbyn: “Voor #kolonialisme, #imperialisme en #wapenhandel is
#democratie de vijand”
https://www.dewereldmorgen.be/artikel/2024/10/04/jeremy-corbyn-voor-kolonialisme-imperialisme-en-wapenhandel-is-democratie-de-vijand/
***
From February
2023 through September 2024 four men conspired to export #firearms,
including Glocks, Rugers, Sig Sauers, and Smith & Wessons, from
the United States #US to #Iraq, without obtaining the required export
licenses.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdky/pr/four-men-charged-violating-export-and-firearms-laws
***
Franco-German
military #KNDS launched its subsidiary in #Kyiv. Called KNDS #Ukraine
LLC, the subsidiary will enable local firms to carry out maintenance
KNDS arms delivered to Ukraine.
https://www.knds.com/newsroom/press-releases/detail/ukrainian-subsidiary-of-armaments-group-knds-opened/
How is it connected to official KNDS HQs in NL? https://www.kvk.nl/bestellen/#/64277925000033117004
***
The European
Union’s #EU funding and defence branches are moving closer together
in a bid to strengthen the continent’s military-industrial complex
#MIC, with an updated agreement between the European Investment Bank
& #EDA being concluded on Wednesday.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/10/03/new-pact-boosts-defense-industry-goals-in-eu-lending-scheme/
***
F*ck off
with human rights?
The chairman of the US House of
Representatives FA Committee Michael McCaul urged President Biden to
speed up weapons shipments to #Israel, including 2000-pound bombs
that have been held up for months over human rights
concerns.https://english.alarabiya.net/News/united-states/2024/10/04/us-house-committee-chairman-urges-biden-to-expedite-bomb-shipments-to-israel
***
Made by #Korean Ghost Robotics, the
pioneering maker of gun-toting robot canines, the #AI-enhanced &
rifle-equipped machine used by the #US was described by a
spokesperson as one of "several" pieces of machinery to be
part of its anti-#drone arsenal.
https://futurism.com/the-byte/army-robot-dogs-guns-middle-east
US
Army testing roll out of gun-mounted robot dogs in Middle East.
The
US Army is testing robot dogs mounted with AI-enabled rifles at a
military facility in the Middle East amid rising tensions in the
region, according to newly released images.
https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/us-army-testing-roll-gun-064941206.html
Deze robothond van het Amerikaanse leger schiet vaker raak
dan een soldaat.
https://www.bright.nl/nieuws/1229850/amerikaanse-leger-test-robothond-die-schiet-met-behulp-van-ai.html
***
Gaat 't
Europees Parlement 'n routineus voor resolutie stemmen om wapens te
sturen naar Oekraïne, vraagt Global Info zich af.
Het EP stemde al voor 't leveren van meer en zwaardere wapens die ook onbeperkt mogen ingezet worden op Russisch grondgebied.
https://www.globalinfo.nl/nieuws/tweede-militaristische-resolutie-van-het-europees-parlement/
***
Advertised
and worded like its meant to sell a new laptop or some kind of toy:
#Leidos Unveils Small, Affordable Cruise Missile For #AFSOC
https://aviationweek.com/defense/missile-defense-weapons/leidos-unveils-small-affordable-cruise-missile-afsoc
https://www.leidos.com/insights/leidos-touts-small-cruise-missile-solution-announces-successful-test-accomplishments
New small cruise
missile slated for #SOCOM gunship test
Digital engineering is helping smaller companies make big leaps in missile design. https://www.defenseone.com/technology/2024/10/new-small-cruise-missile-slated-socom-gunship-test/400021/
***
Backgrounder
explores how the situation in #Gaza has affected the #arms export
policy and practice of 6 of the world’s top 10 exporters of ‘major
conventional arms’ according to #SIPRI Arms Transfers Database.
#Israel #US #UK #France #Germany #Italy #Spain
https://countercurrents.org/2024/10/how-top-arms-exporters-have-responded-to-the-war-in-gaza/
Or
find original text by Zain Hussain (researcher in the SIPRI Arms
Transfers Programme) here:
https://www.sipri.org/commentary/topical-backgrounder/2024/how-top-arms-exporters-have-responded-war-gaza
***
Where there's
a will, there's a way
US says no system in place to track delivery of spare parts for Israeli F-35s.
Arms control experts say inability to
track F-35 components made in one country and sent to another
problematic.
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/us-no-system-track-delivery-spare-parts-israeli-f-35-fighter-jets
ACTIVISTS targeted an arms factory in Brighton which makes
parts for fighter jets used by the Israeli military on Thursday.
The protesters sprayed the L3Harris
factory with fake red blood and scrawled “L3Harris kills kids”
near the entrance.
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/protesters-spray-blood-red-paint-factory-making-f-35-components
***
#Dutch
#Damen's military help to China's best ally. #Pakistan Navy has
commissioned the third Yarmook class PNS Hunain (F-273) armed
offshore patrol vessel built in #Romania in a ceremony held at the
Karachi Naval Dockyard in September.
https://www.overtdefense.com/2024/10/04/pakistan-navy-adds-two-new-naval-vessels-to-its-fleet-pns-babur-and-pns-hunain/
***
Can the Air
Force make its next-gen #fighter jet cheaper than the #F35? Some
analysts warn it can't be done.
https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/10/04/can-the-air-force-make-its-next-gen-fighter-jet-cheaper-than-the-f-35/
(The astronomous sustainment costs
alone have increased between 2018-23 44% from about $1.1trillion to
$1.58 trn https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-24-106703.pdf
).
***
#Dutch
#Damen (known for its policy frustrating #woningbouw in #Amsterdam)
held a ceremony at its Shipyards in #Galati, #Romania. The event
marked 2 significant milestones in the construction of
a Multi-Purpose Ship for the #Portuguese Navy.
https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2024/10/damen-holds-joint-steel-cutting-and-keel-laying-ceremony-for-portuguese-navys-multi-purpose-ship/
October 3
***
The #US State
Department has approved the sale of 720 #Stinger missiles to #Egypt
for an estimated cost of $740m. This deal includes also spare parts,
testing equipment, contractor engineering, as well as logistical and
program support. #Raytheon #RTX
https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/egypt-stinger-missiles
***
When you
travel by 747 remember this tweet:
#Boeing won a $600m deal for Joint Direct Attack Munition and Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition testing and integration. This contract invovles sales to #Israel, Singapore, Philippines, #Indonesia & #Turkey. https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/3921460/
***
IMPUNITY
MANUFACTURERS Review of #Italian Arms Export to #Egypt for 2023.
https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/603f77da05d50a1fa6418754/66fd0edab0c9833c575bd83b_Arms%20Export%202023%20%20ENG.pdf
Report on #offshoring- that, among
other things, facilitates business relations outflanking policy
regulations & state licensing processes. It is a trend in France,
Germany & Belgium
***
#War in #space:
#France has unveiled plans to take its
active space defense to low Earth orbit, illustrating how Western
#governments’ concern is increasing about the role spacecraft may
play in future conflicts.
https://aviationweek.com/space/satellites/france-expands-active-space-defense-efforts-threats-grow
***
Mijn reacties op
tweet met stemmingen motie 22054 424
(https://x.com/LinksIHNieuws/status/1841401287658643862):
Verbaast
niet, wel triest. 20 Jaar geleden liep SP al voorop (Van Bommel)
samen met GroenLinks (Karimi) en deed de PvdD mee (DENK bestond nog
niet). GL heeft zich inmiddels losgezongen van fundamentele kritiek
op militarisme en bewapening, zelfs als het om landen gaat die regels
aan hun laars lappen.
Deze motie werd
breder gesteund. Hij houdt in dat wapen voor wapen moet worden
bewezen dat dit type wordt ingezet. De ervaring leert dat dit een
hoop gesteggel betekent over wanneer ingezette en geleverde wapens
overeenkomen. En 't zal achteraf gebeuren.
https://zoek.officielebekendmakingen.nl/kst-22054-428.pdf
***
The #Saudi
Ministry of Defense #MoD is in talks with #Thales Group to procure a
radar system. The deal would also include a localization agreement. A
note [behind paywall] provides a comprehensive overview of several
aspects concerning the deal.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63029
***
Marxist
economist Michael Hudon on "Why the war in #Ukraine is meant to
drag on: Strategic goals, European discontent & NATO's role. It's
war. It's a bonanza 4 US arms exports. And what if #Europe is
replenishing all of the arms that it's sent to Ukraine.
***
Push factor
at the arms market:
Can #China’s military jets find
favour in arms markets dominated by US, Russia? Chinese-made #warplanes offer an
alternative to an increasing number of nations, as sales to #Myanmar,
#Nigeria and #Iraq already show.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3280789/can-chinas-military-jets-find-favour-arms-markets-dominated-us-russia
***
Bit
bewildering comment comes from an established Turkish source. Ankara
is itself an agressive player on the global stage. This however
points to a shameful situation, although in the more recent figures
France pased Russia & Germany entered top-5 (UK no. 7 behind
Italy). 
***
How fast do
the doors revolve?
Former #UK defence secretary Sir Ben #Wallace has joined an investment firm that focuses on military technology ventures, becoming the latest Conservative ex-minister to seek a new career in the business world. https://www.ft.com/content/35658fbe-1f7f-4034-881d-b49dfe1590ed
***
#Russia plans
to spend 30% more on the #military next year, in total €108 bn for
all military #spending. That amount would account for about 40% of
the total budget by Moscow.
https://thedefensepost.com/2024/09/30/russia-defense-spending-hike-2025/
Far less than France & Germany
combined.
https://www.nato.int/nato_static_fl2014/assets/pdf/2024/6/pdf/240617-def-exp-2024-en.pdf
***
US
Special Operations Command #SOCOM is paving the way for a new
military specialty aimed at getting more tech-savvy recruits into
jobs that will help commandos put emerging #technology to use on the
#battlefield, Army officials said.
https://www.stripes.com/branches/army/2024-10-02/special-operations-artificial-intelligence-recruiting-15379220.html
October 1
***
South #Korea,
#France, #Italy hunt for #arms deals as Russian exports fall
#Vietnam, #India diversify procurement in market reshaped by Ukraine
war
https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Aerospace-Defense-Industries/South-Korea-France-Italy-hunt-for-arms-deals-as-Russian-exports-fall
***
Will #Israel
be a major player in the #Philippines’ US$36 billion military
upgrade?
While Israeli arms are attractive for their quality and affordability, a backlash – domestically, regionally, and internationally – looms
***
Alleged
Chinese Spy Was Tracking U.S. Arms Shipments to Israel
New arrest casts light on Beijing’s
interest in Western military logistics in Europe
https://www.wsj.com/world/europe/alleged-chinese-spy-was-tracking-u-s-arms-shipments-to-israel-d06be1c1
US charges Chinese dissident with
allegedly spying for Beijing https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp8nzpx45wxo
2/2 Germany Arrests Woman Accused of Sharing Arms Export Data
With China The woman, who worked at an airport that is one of
Europe’s largest cargo hubs, is accused of passing along “flights,
freight and passengers” related to arms exports.
https://nytimes.com/2024/10/01/world/europe/germany-china-arrest-spying.html
Jian G. the assistant of former AfD
top candidate Maximilian Krah is said to have spied on arms
deliveries for China. He apparently had an informant at Leipzig
Airport. He is said to have passed on info from the EU Parliament to
Chinese intell services.
https://indianetworknews.com/was-this-woman-spying-for-jian-g/news
***
The US Air
Force awarded #Lockheed Martin a $3.2bn contract for two types
of missiles: AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles & AGM-158B
Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles and will include FMSales to
Japan, the #Netherlands, Finland & Poland.
https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/09/30/air-force-awards-lockheed-32b-multiyear-missile-contract/
***
The
#Netherlands secured spending of about €1 billion on #Dutch
companies as part of its multibillion-euro purchase of four attack
#submarines from #France’s #NavalGroup, the Dutch MoD said.
#offsets
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/09/30/dutch-submarine-buy-from-france-to-spark-11-billion-in-offsets
***
#Russia’s
#arms exports to sub-Saharan #Africa. Russia's failed invasion of
Ukraine has severely damaged its reputation, leading to a drop in
arms sales and causing it to lose its position as the world’s
second-largest arms exporter to #France in 2023.
https://www.ispionline.it/en/publication/russias-arms-exports-to-sub-saharan-africa-no-longer-the-main-actor-184986
Reports
by the Italian Institute for Int Political Studies #ISPI, titled
"Importing (In)security: The Evolving Arms Trade in Sub-Saharan
Africa."
(https://www.ispionline.it/en/publication/importing-insecurity-the-evolving-arms-trade-in-sub-saharan-africa-184835):
Russia lose ground to rising competitors such as #China and #Turkey.
https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2024/Oct/198259/ispi_china_overtakes_russia_in_sub_saharan_africa_arms_trade.aspx
