woensdag 24 november 2021

Wapenexportbeleid m.b.t. Egypte: overheid houdt informatie achter

Egyptische marine SEAL bewapend met
 Beretta ARX-160. Tweet 19 mei 2018.

 
Een van de grootste exporten van militaire goederen door Nederland van de afgelopen jaren gaat naar Egypte. Een samenwerkingsverbond van Pax voor Vrede, Stop Wapenhandel en het Nederlands Juristen Comité voor de Mensenrechten spanden een rechtszaak tegen de levering aan.


De rechter oordeelde echter dat ze niet voldoende hebben kunnen aantonen dat de Nederlandse levering gebruikt kan worden of het hoe en wat hierbij van in het geheim opererende troepen om de mensenrechten te schenden. Wat de zaak wel duidelijk maakte is dat de Nederlandse overheid informatie achterhoudt zelfs bij het informeren van Kamerleden.

Het Parlement moet worden geïnformeerd bij leveringen die groter dan € 2 miljoen zijn. Het ging in dit geval om € 114 miljoen. In de brief staat dat “het desbetreffende schip kent meerdere toepassingen en zal o.a. worden ingezet bij patrouilles, search and rescue-operaties, onderzeebootdetectie en humanitaire operaties.”

Je moet heel erg goed kunnen lezen of een doorgewinterd jurist zijn om te struikelen over “o.a.” Maar onder die twee letters en twee punten kan je alles laten verdwijnen zonder te liegen. In dit geval stond in de vergunning: “dat o.a. kan worden ingezet voor patrouilletaken, onderzeebootdetectie, ondersteuning aan special forces eenheden, search and rescue- en humanitaire operaties.”

Dat is vrijwel dezelfde tekst, alleen ontbrak: “ondersteuning aan special forces eenheden,” dat wel in de vergunning stond, maar toevallig net niet in de informatie aan de Tweede Kamer. Ik zou me als Kamerlid belazerd voelen. Het gaat hier juist om de meest gevaarlijke troepen als het om mensenrechtenschendingen en standrechtelijke executies gaat. (Wat nu nog door dat o.a. in de vergunning verborgen wordt?)

Deze week werd bekend dat Egypte door Frankrijk geleverde inlichtingen gebruikte bij het omleggen van civiele smokkelaars aan de Libische grens. Zonder lek hadden we het nooit geweten.

Dat de Rechter vindt dat de eisers beter hadden moeten aantonen dat de wapens ingezet konden worden klinkt redelijk, maar we hebben het over een gewelddadig scrupuleus regime dat probeert de journalistiek buiten te houden. Hier wordt de bewijslast gelegd bij hen die nooit over die exacte gegevens kunnen beschikken.

Dat is mooi voor Thales, de leverancier in dit geval. Dat is mooi voor Nederland want feitelijk is Egypte een bondgenoot voor het Westen, poortwachter aan het Suezkanaal.

De organisaties beraden zich nu op nadere juridische stappen.

zondag 14 november 2021

Varende stokborden

Kamerleden willen een onderzeeboot van eigen bodem (Parool 10 november) en geen varend stokbrood, zoals SGP-Kamerlid Chris Stoffer al eens opmerkte. Een kwalificatie die het Nederlandse tijdschrift van de Defensielobby NIVD met instemming overnam.



Het is blijkbaar een vermakelijk spel om de Franse wapenindustrie te beschimpen; vaak met recht en reden. Voor de Fransen is het onderhouden van een sterke wapenindustrie een deel van de nationale militaire politiek. Export hoort daar bij – vaak ook naar minder wenselijke bestemmingen – en gaat niet zelden gepaard met corruptie.

Toch is het opvallend dat van de paar grote militair-industriële spelers in Nederland er twee zijn met een sterke Franse connectie. Thales Nederland is de voornaamste producent van militaire technologie in dit land, maar wel deel van het Franse Thales. Sterker nog het speelt een belangrijke rol in de maritieme sectie van dit internationale bedrijf.

In Leiden zetelt de formele hoofdvestiging van Airbus voor een belangrijk deel in Franse en Duitse handen. Airbus heeft ook een productie afdeling in de universiteitsstad. Deze week kwam in het nieuws dat Frankrijk met een Vega raket drie militaire satellieten in de ruimte bracht. De Vega bevat onderdelen die in Leiden werden ontwikkeld en geproduceerd.

VVD-Kamerlid Jeroen van Wijngaarden zegt stoer dat hij niet wil dat een toekomstige onderzeeboot voor onderhoud naar Frankrijk gaat. Het is bijna alsof hij geen Frans-Nederlandse militaire relaties wil. Dit lijkt overigens in tegenspraak met een andere VVD wens: aansluiting bij de militair industriële samenwerking tussen Frankrijk en Duitsland. De minister van Buitenlandse Zaken verwees onlangs nog naar die VVD-positie en werd hierin bevestigd door Kamerlid voor die partij Klink.

Je krijgt door dit ageren tegen de Franse concurrent het idee dat veel Defensie woordvoerders zegslieden van Damen zijn geworden. Een Nederlandse onderzeeboot bestaat niet, wordt het Ministerie van Defensie niet moe te herhalen op nationale reflexvragen van Kamerleden: er is geen Nederlandse werf meer die zelfstandig onderzeeboten kan ontwerpen en bouwen.”

De laatste onderzeeboot die in Nederland ontworpen werd (de Moeraal/Moray) uit de jaren tachtig, is nooit gebouwd; er zijn alleen tientallen miljoenen aan het ontwerp uitgegeven. Nederlandse Kamerleden blijven echter pleiten voor een ongewis avontuur. De kosten – 3 tot 4 miljard euro – en kwaliteiten van de onderzeeërs lijken daarmee uit beeld te raken.

Deze aanschaf is te groot om voor Holland promotie te worden ingezet. Dit los van de vraag of het verstandig is zo op Frankrijk te hakken. Een vraag van een heel andere orde is of er geen veiligheidsvraagstukken zijn op gebied van gezondheid en klimaatverandering, die urgenter zijn dan de mogelijkheid overal ter wereld militair te kunnen opereren.

zondag 7 november 2021

My tweets for November 2021

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

November 30

***
Retweet @_ENAAT: ENAAT latest Newsletter is now available online. For updates on #EuropeanDefenceFund, other related issues and the role and benefits for the #arms industry. All from a peace perspective #noEUmoney4arms #EuropeanDefence https://bit.ly/NBB21-4

***

Good times 4 arms industry. Investir noted that hardening of geopolitical tensions, increase in military budgets and decline in civilian possibilities have revived interest in the sector. No arms control No structures 4 dialogue. The hardline is profitable https://investir.lesechos.fr/dossiers/la-defense-au-coeur-de-la-bataille/la-defense-au-coeur-de-la-bataille-1991133.php

***
Lobby in the US for Turkish military firms. Report by The Center for International Policy shows who is acting on behalf of Ankara's arms manufacturers. https://3ba8a190-62da-4c98-86d2-893079d87083.usrfiles.com/ugd/3ba8a1_82f7530cddf848b8bc7880eb52b1d624.pdf

***
“The killing of humans should never be automated based on algorithmic formulas ... Such dehumanisation of life and death decision-making by autonomous weapons systems must be outlawed worldwide.” https://www.ft.com/content/03b2c443-b839-4093-a8f0-968987f426f4

November 29

***
Retweet @ForumArmsTrade: @WilliamHartung argues The Biden Administration’s Missile Sale to Saudi Arabia Is Offensive, and Must Be Stopped via @forbes https://www.forbes.com/sites/williamhartung/2021/11/28/the-biden-administrations-missile-sale-to-saudi-arabia-is-offensive-and-must-be-stopped/?sh=37c0c6036281

***
Many of the biggest purchasers of U.S. weapons (e.g., Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkey, and the Philippines) also tend to be willing to violate human rights and disperse weapons to groups not friendly to the United States. As a result, Biden’s attempt to revise his conventional arms transfer policy will face the same type of opposition as those of his predecessors (…) Changing this policy to avoid US’s current contributions to human rights abuses and hostile actors will make the US more secure and the world safer. https://warontherocks.com/2021/11/bidens-conventional-arms-transfer-policy-review-could-be-a-turning-point/

***
Repressive regiems among each other. Turkish Aerospace Industries will hand over the first batch of T-129 Tactical Reconnaissance and Attack Helicopter (ATAK) to the Philippines next month. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1160717

***
If French president Macron really wants the voice of the Africans to be expressed freely he should stop all financing of African governments trampling on "democracy" & stop all sales of weapons to Paris' African partners in open war against their peoples. https://www.jeuneafrique.com/1266901/politique/quand-emmanuel-macron-sapproprie-le-monopole-de-la-democratie/

***

Cartoon bij tweet marineschepen
Retweet @marineschepen: Banken willen niet in zee met defensie-industrie https://marineschepen.nl/dossiers/cartoon-676.html

***
De afgelopen dertig jaar zette vooral het Westen stappen in die ruimtevaarttech ontwikkelingen. Nederland zou een forse bijdrage kunnen leveren in een EU-ruimtedefensiebeleid: 1) Thales radar, 2) juridisch in Leiden & 3) vergeten worden 3) Airbus, 4) ESA. https://fd.nl/politiek/1420426/antisatellietwapens-zijn-niet-meer-weg-te-denken-bij-de-militaire-wedloop-in-de-ruimte

***
French-German axe in the military industry hurries towards close cooperation.

Again: "None of the cooperation projects...will be able to compete with the United States and China without a financial system as deep and integrated as that of these 2 powers" https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/air-defense/les-industries-francaises-et-allemandes-pressees-de-batir-de-nouveaux-partenariats-1367700

***
#Saudi Space Commission has launched its first specialised training programme in the field of space and space technology in cooperation with #Airbus Defense and Space. https://satelliteprome.com/news/saudi-space-commission-launches-space101-training-programme/

***
#DeutscheBank no longer wants to finance the military sector. #BayerischeLandesbank, based in Bavaria with a large part of German arms industries, has decided not to finance companies that generate more than 20% of their turnover from military production. https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/air-defense/defense-le-patron-du-constructeur-de-blindes-franco-allemand-appelle-leurope-a-accelerer-1367774

***
De uitspraak van de rechter inzake het proces dat @PILPNJCM @CTWnl en @PAXvoorvrede aanspanden tegen wapenleveranties aan Egypte is vandaag het onderwerp van de column van Midden-Oosten luis in de pels @roelants_c. Waarom geen wapens leveren?

Retweet @roelants_c: Ha! Nederland mag wapens blijven leveren aan Egypte! @PAXvoorvrede @amnestynl @hrw Wat kan het schelen, die 60.000 politieke gevangenen. https://nrc.nl/nieuws/2021/11/29/ha-nederland-mag-wapens-blijven-leveren-aan-egypte-a4067163

November 28

***
Australia’s Future Fund (FF) reveals over $155m of Future Fund investments linked to Myanmar military. https://www.investordaily.com.au/superannuation/50377-foi-reveals-future-fund-s-investments-with-links-to-myanmar-military-top-150m

***
How to promote a major arms sales to the #UAE? Say: if we don't, Putin's friend Chemezov, of Rostec, will offer fighter aircraft.

Or in other words if they don't use Western #F35's to bomb Yemen, they will do it with Russian Checkmate's. Difficult choice? https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/putins-friend-leads-russian-effort-sell-weapons-us-allies-rcna6599

***
"Defence companies are different from companies in other industries, being in a unique position to sustain corrupt practices, making a case for studying corruption risk in this industry …
Companies in other industries do not enjoy government support for their corrupt practices. … Despite the massive adverse publicity associated with corporate corruption, several firms in the defence industry continue to engage in unethical practices around the globe.” [pay wall] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0927538X21001888

***
#Norway spy agency calls off search for media outlet's source. The Aftenposten revealed in May 2021 that Norway's Foreign Ministry allowed arms exports to the #UAE, although it suspected that the weapons were being used illegally in the civil war in Yemen. https://www.aftenposten.no/norge/politikk/i/x89v0j/nasjonal-sikkerhetsmyndighet-nsm-avblaaser-jakt-paa-aftenposten-kilder

November 27

***
Report on European military industrial base states that the European fighter program #FCAS program "is the key to further consolidation," but also "the US remains a very important supplier ... in particular of fighter aircraft (such as the F-35)” #fairytale https://www.clingendael.org/sites/default/files/2021-11/Unpacking_open_strategic_autonomy.pdf

November 26

***
De Nederlandse marine werd tijdens de Indonesische onafhankelijkheidsoorlog ngezet om smokkel tegen te gaan. Kleine schepen met speciale troepen speelden hierin een rol. “Het beproefde operatieconcept van de marine bleek een effectief ‘wurgmiddel’. (…) Ook de inwoners van de Republiek ondervonden de gevolgen van de succesvolle aanpak van de Nederlandse zeemacht. Het is waarschijnlijk dat door de grote schaarste die ontstond van voedsel, kleding en medicijnen, slachtoffers zijn gevallen onder de burgerbevolking.https://www.militairespectator.nl/thema/geschiedenis/artikel/patrouilles-een-notendop

Iets heel anders uit de koloniale geschiedenis, dit vreselijke verhaal over een moordpartij op Bali in november 1946. Als je het leest doet het Nederlandse optreden denken aan de methoden van de Midden-Amerikaanse dictators. https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2021/11/26/nederland-liet-bali-bloeden-a4066939

***
De redactie van de Militaire Spectator klaagt dat de krijgsmacht niet in beeld was tijdens de verkiezingen. Ze werd ondergesneeuwd door "toeslagenaffaire, klimaatproblematiek en huizenmarkt." Aan het Plein 4 in Den Haag wil men €5 miljard extra per jaar. https://www.militairespectator.nl/thema/editoriaal/editoriaal/keuzestress

Wat verder in hetzelfde tijdschrift stellen twee wetenschappers dat "Nederland niet per se een numeriek grote troepenmacht hoeft te leveren om zijn steentje bij te dragen." https://www.militairespectator.nl/thema/geschiedenis-operaties-internationale-samenwerking/artikel/vredesmissies-een-geopolitieke

***
French military industry and the evil competitor in Washington. The whole range of arguments are dealt with to show how the US is using veil methods to suffocate its competitors like France, even while Paris and Washington came closer on policies.https://theconversation.com/ventes-darmes-la-france-resiste-a-lhegemonie-americaine-171798

***
French continue with opposition to Swiss F-35 acquisition. The Swiss authorities do not have an alternative plan if the Swiss people were to reject the choice of the American F-35 fighter plane by the Federal Council, a defense ministry official admitted. https://www.capital.fr/economie-politique/defense-la-suisse-na-pas-de-plan-b-si-le-choix-du-f-35-est-rejete-1421186

***
A tweet out of scope and in the category of peculiar sales, Airbus meets Dr Urs Brunner of fashin house Giulia & Romeo request for vegan helicopter interior. It fits in a category like environmental friendly ammo. https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2021-11-airbus-meets-customer-request-for-vegan-helicopter-interior

***
Airbus Helicopters has delivered a H225M in naval combat configuration to the Brazilian Navy. The aircraft will boost the Brazilian Navy's mission capabilities including anti-surface warfare and maritime surveillance. https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2021-11-first-ever-naval-combat-h225m-delivered-to-the-brazilian-navy

***
In advance to meeting Journalist Benoit Collombat states: The problem is not that this secret defense exists... But in many cases, it is used to cover individual deviations, in other words the collective interest is invoked to protect particular interests. https://www.ouest-france.fr/normandie/lisieux-14100/lisieux-secret-defense-il-y-a-une-culture-de-l-opacite-qui-est-tres-problematique-35065150-4955-11ec-a0b7-64a183ad6699

***
Article on arms export to Eritrea mentions, with help of @Alex_Kuimova, exports this century by Belarus, Bulgaria, Russia & Ukraine. https://allafrica.com/stories/202111260059.html It brings back old memories to the sale of tank engines from Dutch province of Drenthe via Antwerp. https://stopwapenhandel.org/eritrea-en-de-containers/

***
The spending on new military aircraft in the coming decade is valued at $135 billion by Aviation Week. It makes the world a healthier, safer, just and more climate friendly place, isn't it. https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/135-billion-military-aircraft-market-opportunities-expected-over-next-decade

***
The Greens criticize Turkey’s military operations without naming them explicitly and add that German arms exports to war zones and “dictatorships” should be stopped. https://toysmatrix.com/what-will-the-new-german-govts-perception-of-turkey-be/

November 25

***
Illegal occupation meets illegal occupation.

Israel-Morocco defense deal opens door to intel sharing, joint drills. https://www.timesofisrael.com/israel-morocco-defense-deal-opens-door-to-intel-sharing-joint-drills/

***
Three French companies have sold massive digital surveillance tools to Egypt with the consent of the French State. https://www.lemonde.fr/pixels/article/2021/11/24/trois-entreprises-francaises-ont-vendu-des-outils-de-surveillance-numerique-massive-a-l-egypte_6103421_4408996.html

***
Aftersales, the gain continues: The #Qatar-badged joint squadron will enable UK & Qatari personnel to train together using the most advanced version of the Hawk trainer aircraft in service today. The 9 #Hawks along with 24 #Typhoons were ordered in 2017. https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-to-provide-comprehensive-support-to-newly-formed-uk-qatar-joint-hawk-training-squadron-at-raf-leeming

***
With help from #Spain #Turkey could become the first country to develop an aircraft carrier specifically designed for #drones The concept of an aircraft carrier is starting to change as Turkey also brought about a new concept of a 'drone aircraft carrier'. https://www.usnews.com/news/business/articles/2021-11-17/turkey-spain-discuss-sale-of-aircraft-carrier-submarine

***
Nuclear muscles. Australia signed the agreement to share nuclear propulsion information with the United States and the UK on Monday, marking the initial steps towards the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine fleet with the assistance of the UK & US. https://news.usni.org/2021/11/22/australia-signs-nuclear-propulsion-sharing-agreement-with-u-k-u-s?mc_cid=89a2944908&mc_eid=c0fc1b3f7d

***
US Hypersonic Weapons on Track to Deploy on Attack Submarines in 2028 https://news.usni.org/2021/11/18/hypersonic-weapons-on-track-to-deploy-on-attack-submarines-in-2028?mc_cid=89a2944908&mc_eid=c0fc1b3f7d

***
The operator of one of the world's largest private fleets of fighter jets, Draken, is expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia, a promising market given the air force's need for help in Yemen. 1 / 2

2 / 2 The people skills of the UK's former chief of defence staff, Nicholas Houghton, went a long way to securing this success with Riyadh. {pay wall] https://www.intelligenceonline.com/international-dealmaking/2021/11/24/how-draken-has-made-its-way-to-royal-saudi-air-force,109706846-art

***
In addition to growing restrictions and embargoes on military and defense components imported by #Turkey, the regime of President Erdoğan also faces undeclared sanctions on the transfer of dual use items that have both civilian and military applications. https://nordicmonitor.com/2021/11/turkey-faces-embargo-on-dual-use-goods-for-civilian-needs-on-fears-that-it-may-use-for-military-and-defense/

***
A report published yesterday by the #UNDP estimated that 377,000 people will have died in the war in Yemen by the end of 2021. #CAAT spokesperson notices a fesw small steps forward, but in general arms trade to Saudi's continue with this horrifying result. https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/43531

***
Housing and arms trade? The vote this week by Dublin city councillors to halt an agreement to lease homes for social housing from the pension fund of BAE Systems, a British arms company, is the only acceptable outcome. https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/why-dublin-city-council-should-not-lease-homes-from-an-arms-maker-1.4737591

November 24

***
French-German #KNDS is interested in 2 Italian Leonardo subsidiaries which would allow it to develop its European battle tank project.

A story of distrust, strategic interests, internal EU power diplomacy, inclusion and market positions unfolds. https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/air-defense/char-du-futur-litalie-sceptique-sur-le-projet-franco-allemand-1366429

***
German arms exports for almost € 4 billion in Jan-Nov 2021. These facts come from answers on Parliamentary questions by Die Linke.

1 US, 2 Netherlands, 3 UK, 4 Egypt and 5 Brazil most important receivers of German arms (big to smaller). https://www.handelsblatt.com/politik/deutschland/waffen-bundesregierung-genehmigt-fast-vier-milliarden-euro-an-ruestungsexporten/27819516.html

***
Call for binding German law to halt arms sales to 'despots'.

Keine Waffen für Despoten

https://www.fr.de/meinung/gastbeitraege/keine-waffen-fuer-despoten-91134581.html

***


Wapenexportbeleid m.b.t. Egypte: overheid houdt informatie achter. https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2021/11/wapenexportbeleid-mbt-egypte-overheid.html

"alleen ontbrak: “ondersteuning aan special forces eenheden,” dat wel in de vergunning stond, maar toevallig net niet in de informatie aan de Tweede Kamer. Ik zou me als Kamerlid belazerd voelen. Het gaat hier juist om de meest gevaarlijke troepen"

***
Retweet @JaspervanDijkSP: Absolute must-read Kijk ook om 11u debat over wapenexport met onze voorstellen om de regels aan te scherpen @NPOpolitiek

@evanscheltinga De atlas over Wapenhandel en Permanente Oorlog is gepresenteerd! Nederland: Faciliteert wapenhandel met slappe exportregels.
Faciliteert verdienen aan wapens met een belastingparadijs.
Wakkert wapenhandel aan met steun aan de permanente oorlog.
http://sp.nl/vrede

***
Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz takes off for Morocco to ink a number of agreements on arms sales from Israel to Morocco and other defense-related issues. Article mentions earlier NSO's Pegasus spyware sales, the flared conflict with Polisario. https://www.timesofisrael.com/gantz-takes-off-for-morocco-to-ink-defense-deals-buoy-ties/

Addition: In an column on the Israeli and Moroccan deal in the Algerian L'Expression it is stated: "Israel will not hesitate to set the region ablaze through weapon sales and the weakening of states." (Algiers and Rabat are in conflict.) https://www.lexpressiondz.com/nationale/le-mossad-a-nos-frontieres-350907

***
After the AUKUS setback, France is aggressively eyeing the Indo-Pacific region for its arms exports. New reports suggest that France might be pitching its Rafale fighter jets to Indonesia to replace its aging F-5 fighters. https://eurasiantimes.com/france-eyes-rafale-fighter-jet-deal-with-indonesia-after-aukus-disaster/

***
Ukraine has been outspoken in condemning the violence in Myamnar. However, Ukrainian BTR-3 armored vehicles were spotted in Yangon amid the violence after the coup, drawing attention to the well-established ties between both countries’s defence industries. https://www.thedefensepost.com/2021/11/23/ukrainian-weapons-myanmar/

November 23

***
Dutch judge acknowledges severe human rights violations in Egypt but does not calls on the Dutch State to halt arms sales to the al-Sisi regime, because it is of the opinion NGOs did not gave prove of misuse of Dutch military technology. [in Dutch] https://stopwapenhandel.org/rechter-erkent-ernstige-mensenrechtenschendingen-egypte-maar-staat-wapenexport-toch-toe/ (In English: https://stopwapenhandel.org/press-release-judge-recognizes-serious-human-rights-violations-in-egypt-but-still-allows-arms-exports-to-take-place/)

Addition: Judge referred to criteria for risk assesements 2 and 6 from the EU Common Position. See the ruling here (in Dutch) https://pilpnjcm.nl/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Rechtbank-Den-Haag_uitspraak-kort-geding-wapenexport_23-november-2021.pdf

Addition: Rechter wijst eis tot stopzetten wapenexport naar Egypte af https://www.rtlnieuws.nl/nieuws/nederland/artikel/5269065/nederland-egypte-wapens-levering-pax-kort-geding-rechter

***
EU nations add air, space and drone tech to their defence cooperation roster. The fourth wave of 14 initiatives boosts the slate of Permanent Structured Cooperation projects to 60 since late 2017. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2021/11/18/eu-nations-add-air-space-and-drone-tech-to-their-defense-cooperation-roster/

***
During an exercise in #Qatar, Qatari #French Rafale jets have conducted air-to-air refuelling sorties with a #British Voyager tanker. It is the first time for the British Air Force to conduct AAR with the Qatar Emiri Air Force. https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-refuels-qatar-emiri-air-force-for-the-first-time/

***
Vragen van #BIj1 over scheepswerf #Damen - belangrijke militaire producent - waren kritischer dan de antwoorden. Eind goed al goed, de Gemeente #Amsterdam besliste: “Er is geen grondslag om Damen op dit moment te compenseren voor een bedrijfsverplaatsing.” https://amsterdam.raadsinformatie.nl/document/10800102/1/SV336_21_Beantwoording_schriftelijke_vragen_Veldhuyzen_behoud_van_scheepswerf_Damen

***
State-owned Bharat Electronics on Monday announced that it has a signed a contract with Airbus Defence and Space for the manufacture and supply of Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) and Missile Approach Warning System. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/bel-inks-airbus-deal-for-c295/articleshow/87858210.cms

***
Dutch arms industry complains banks have 2nd thoughts financing them. Military industry lobby #ASD will go to European Commission.

https://fd.nl/bedrijfsleven/1419179/defensie-industrie-vangt-vaker-bot-bij-banken-die-reputatieschade-vrezen

In France banks complained a while ago on compliance rules.https://business.lesechos.fr/entrepreneurs/gestion-finance/0604132275846-defense-l-industrie-francaise-confrontee-aux-craintes-des-banquiers-340415.php

Financing is key, also for arms trade.

November 22

***
When you'll look what Dutch companies will be at the #EDEX Arms Fair in #Egypt next week, there are two results: 1) KNDS, the association of Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter, two of the leading European manufacturers of military land systems based in Germany and France. 1/4

But for tax reasons officially in the Netherlands. (See e.g. in Dutch) https://groene.nl/artikel/de-financiele-draaischijf like so many internal arms manufacturers. 2/4

And 2) Riscure, a company working on cryptography 'driving your securit foward' and thus part of a large Dutch industry in this field. https://riscure.com/about-riscure 3/4

See for more info on EDEX and 'your'country on the site of the arms fair: fully supported by Egyptian Armed Forces and presents a brand new opportunity for exhibitors to showcase the latest technology, equipment and systems across land, sea, and air. https://egyptdefenceexpo.com/what-is-edex 4/4

***
The US military and Jordan have started work on unmanned systems and artificial intelligence integration as part of their efforts to establish a new unmanned task force. https://www.cusnc.navy.mil/Media/News/Display/Article/2849439/us-navy-jordan-partner-on-new-unmanned-systems-integration/

***
Oped in Haaretz: Israel needs to pass a law prohibiting the export of weapons to regimes engaged in gross violations of human rights, and to empower a mechanism that will make that evaluation in an effective and transparent manner. https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/.premium-israel-must-stop-arming-brutal-regimes-it-s-a-jewish-imperative-1.10403761

***
More than 50 UK MPs are backing legislation to prohibit arms sales to Israel, Labour MP Richard Burgon told guests at a fundraising dinner for Palestine in Halifax in West Yorkshire on Friday. https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/more-50-mps-back-burgons-bill-ban-arms-sales-israel-he-tells-halifax-psc-fundraiser

***
Western ally Egypt has used intelligence supplied by the French military to target and "kill civilians" suspected of smuggling, according to a report Sunday by investigative website Disclose, based on leaked documents. https://english.alaraby.co.uk/news/egypt-using-french-military-aid-kill-civilians-report

[VIDEO] opération Sirli : révélations sur la complicité de la France dans de potentiels crimes contre l’humanité en Egypte.

#Egyptpapers https://twitter.com/Disclose_ngo/status/1462697399533592580


November 21

***
Part of the 4th wave of #PESCO projects is an semi-autonomous surface vehicle #M_SASV.

It will be equipped with multiple mission modules for a range of military tasks such as intelligence, and #warfare capabilities against ships and and submarines. https://www.naval-technology.com/news/european-defence-agency-launches-m-sasv/

***
Beleggingsadvies in de Telegraaf door @sandramolenaar van de @Consumentenbond: "(...) gaat uw geld naar bedrijven in wapenhandel, kinderarbeid of milieuvervuiling, of dient het een duurzaam of ander goed doel? Wat mij betreft is dat waar het echt om gaat." https://www.telegraaf.nl/financieel/1128755805/column-risico-met-beleggen-zit-ook-in-verborgen-kosten

***
According to a survey, a majority of Germans are in favour of stricter rules for arms exports : 63% want arms and other armaments to be sold only to states that are not involved in human rights violations.

(76% is against buying new atomic bombs) [German] https://taz.de/Umfrage-zu-Ruestung-und-Waffenexporten/!5814233/

***
The US and its NATO allies are busily arming Ukraine and engaging in other actions that encourage the leaders in Kiev to believe that they have strong Western backing in their confrontation with Russia and Russian‐backed separatists. https://www.cato.org/commentary/nato-arms-sales-ukraine-spark-starts-war-russia

Addition: According to reports from foreign media such as The Times, Britain is negotiating with Ukraine on arms deals and plans to sell missiles to Ukraine. Ukrainian sources said that the arms sales will represent the UK's first arms sales to Ukraine. https://min.news/en/military/0df4b75e00318730765e7f414b15e680.html

Addition: Into the unknown: Earlier this week, the British government also announced arms sales to Ukraine, as part of a joint project with Kyiv for Ukraine to acquire new ships and weaponry for its navy. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/britain-troops-belarus-ukraine-borders-b1960882.html

***
Israel will beef up the Armed Forces of the Philippines by providing military technology and other systems. https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/israel-to-help-the-philippines-modernize-its-armed-forces-685527

Reaction @v23id: "In 2019, human rights attorneys filed a lawsuit with the High Court demanding that Israel refrain from selling armsto the Philippines, saying it is a country that violates human rights. The lawsuit said that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is “a mass murderer".

***
COVID: France sends security forces to Guadeloupe amid riots

The French territory in the Caribbean has witnessed several nights of violent protest against COVID rules. Elite police officers have been sent to help quell the unrest.
https://www.dw.com/en/covid-france-sends-security-forces-to-guadeloupe-amid-riots/a-59892162

***
It isn't always cosy in the #EU. The #Greek government reacted strongly after #Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez agreed with #Turkish President Erdogan to enhance their countries' collaboration in the defence industry. https://www.euractiv.com/section/defence-and-security/news/greece-fumes-over-new-spain-turkey-armament-deal/

Addition: Op-ed: Sanchez's unethical arms deal, #Turkey, and the EU

Spain is arming Turkey. It is all the more curious when one considers that #Spain is a member of the MED-9 group of Mediterranean countries that is working more closely with #Greece. #unacceptable

https://www.tovima.gr/2021/11/20/international/op-ed-sanchezs-unethical-arms-deal-turkey-and-the-eu/

***
ARES (https://ares-aviation.com/?lang=en), located in the south-east of France, has just concluded the purchase in Qatar of 12 2nd-hand Mirage 2000-5's to develop the “Red Air” market in Europe; that is the training of the armed forces by private fleets. https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/air-defense/ares-la-pme-francaise-qui-rachete-les-mirage-du-qatar-1365200

***
With the ability to operate from rough and short runways, the A400M is also believed to strengthen the Indonesian Air Force's airlift capability in responding to any crisis. [Prabowo Pesan 2 Pesawat Jumbo A400M yang...] What kind of crises is the question. https://www.inilah.com/prabowo-pesan-2-pesawat-jumbo-a400m-yang-bisa-angkut-truk-bahan-bakar-dan-excavator

***
By the end of this decade, the Spanish Air Force will replace its fighter trainers with data-centric aircraft to train its pilots to fly 5th- and 6th-generation jets. And even though a contract isn’t yet on the horizon, #Airbus is ready to start building. https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/feindef/2021/11/08/airbus-unveils-jet-trainer-with-eyes-on-spain/

***
The inevitability of dangerous a development? Article by CNN on arms build up in Asia. Australian Strategic Policy Inst #ASPI Davis said while expecting the arms race in Asia to make the region more dangerous, he doesn't think nations 've "much of a choice." https://edition.cnn.com/2021/11/19/asia/china-taiwan-asia-us-militarization-intl-dst-hnk-ml/index.html

***
The "naval battle" for Greek corvettes is developing into a fierce struggle between the two leading shipbuilding groups. The Naval Group seems to be determined not to allow the Dutch Damen wharf to dominate. "The Naval Group wants to 'exhaust' the Dutch." https://newpost.gr/amyna/61993a1639b3743324fbbf11/h-naymahia-gia-tis-korvetes-apofasismenoi-oi-galloi-na-paroyn-kai-tis-korvetes-nea-relans-me-protasi-meiomenoy-kostoys-gia-tesseris-gowind-olo-to-paraskinio

Addition: Damen advanced its SIGMA 10514 (already sold to Indonesia & Mexico) as counterproposal to the French offer. These 107-mtr corvettes are offered with armament equivalent to the French Gowinds, including a surface-to-air system and Exocet anti-ship missiles. https://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/les-neerlandais-retentent-leur-chance-en-grece-avec-des-corvettes

November 20

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US military industry fears Buy American policy of Biden will've trade consequences for US itself, because "it could give ammunition to,"those "who want to lock down their own markets."

Sounds logical, but European governments will continue to buy US arms. https://www.defensenews.com/global/the-americas/2021/11/01/buy-american-biden-sees-industry-pushback-as-allies-warn-of-trade-consequences/

***
South Korea is emerging as a major defense production hub, developing new technologies, be it combat aircraft, missiles, artillery, tanks, or small arms. The UAE announced a $3.5bn deal with SK for its “Cheongung-II” mid-range surface-to-air missiles. https://eurasiantimes.com/south-korea-emerging-as-a-global-military-powerhouse-biggest-ever-defense-deal-with-the-uae-in-pipeline/

***
Work on ‘Chinese military base’ in UAE abandoned after US intervenes. The UAE embassy in Washington told the Wall Street Journal: “The UAE has never had an agreement plan, talks or intention to host a Chinese military base or outpost of any kind.” https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/19/chinese-military-base-uae-construction-abandoned-us-intelligence-report

***
The UAE’s Ministry of Defence signed Dh22.5 billion (€5.4bn) worth of contracts with European, American and Asian contractors and suppliers at the Dubai Air Show #DAS2021. https://www.zawya.com/mena/en/business/story/Dubai_Airshow_2021_closes_with_over_78bln_in_deals_in_5_days-ZAWYA20211119041425/

***
The Mexican government argues the companies knew their practices had encouraged illegal arms trafficking into Mexico, helping to cause thousands of gangland deaths.

The arms industry has rejected Mexico’s allegations. https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/mexico-expects-arms-suit-bring-change-industry-officials-2021-11-19/

***
#Niger becomes 1st foreign customer of #Turkey’s Hurkus aircraft, a tandem 2-seat, low-wing, single-engine turboprop aircraft designed as a new-generation trainer as well as a platform for performing light-attack and armed reconnaissance #combat missions. https://www.defensenews.com/air/2021/11/19/niger-becomes-first-foreign-customer-of-turkeys-hurkus-aircraft/

***
Despite pledge, Biden leaves tap open, billions in arms deals to Saudi Arabia

Study reveals that US weapons manufacturers have sold well in excess of $28.3bn worth of arms to KSA since start of the Yemen War, incl. 20 deals inked during Biden’s presidency. https://www.mintpressnews.com/despite-pledge-biden-leaves-tap-open-approving-billions-arms-deals-saudi-arabia/279001/

***
Algeria’s dependence on Russia unraveled: “Algeria, a global energy exporter with the largest defense budget in Africa, is one of the main destinations for Russian weapons, behind India and China” https://moroccolatestnews.com/algerias-dependence-on-russia-unraveled/

https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R46937

November 19

***
Jobs are no excuse — Canada must stop arming Saudi Arabia https://theconversation.com/jobs-are-no-excuse-canada-must-stop-arming-saudi-arabia-171792

***
Turkey made its bed, flirting with both Russia and the West. Instead of rewarding Ankara’s estrangement from NATO, the United States should allow Erdoğan to lie in it and end arms sales to Turkey. https://www.defensenews.com/opinion/commentary/2021/11/18/dont-give-turkey-an-f-16-consolation-prize/

November 18

***
Sen. Rand Paul calls for Democrats to force vote on Saudi arms sales. He will most likely force a ground vote on the Biden White House’s first major arms sale to Saudi Arabia and is seeking Democrats to help support a resolution. https://x99news.com/2021/11/18/sen-rand-paul-calls-for-democrats-to-force-vote-on-saudi-arms-sales/

***
Americans propose EU to borrow € 100bn to spend on Defence. They will know overspending let the USSR collaps and US military expenditures resulted in enormous debt, paid by foreign nations and institutions (https://ticdata.treasury.gov/Publish/mfh.txt); curiously China as 2nd. https://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/europe/2021-11-18/europe-needs-step-defense

***
Number 2 US military officer Hyten said China’s hypersonic test should spark urgency in DoD. https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/missile-defense-weapons/hyten-chinas-hypersonic-test-should-spark-urgency-dod But it seems the tests are used for internal use. Military industry has no better lobbyist than the military.

https://www.armscontrol.org/act/2021-11/news/us-hypersonic-capabilities-advance

Addition: US Navy looks to get back on schedule for fielding hypersonic missiles on submarines https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2021/11/18/navy-looks-to-get-back-on-schedule-for-fielding-hypersonic-missiles-on-submarines/

Addition 2: Wright added that there is some reason to be concerned that part of the issue also is that those worried about the lack of progress and investment by DoD in hypersonic weapons are hyping both Russian and Chinese progress as a way to spur more funding. https://breakingdefense.com/2021/11/chinas-mysterious-hypersonic-test-may-take-a-page-from-darpas-past/

***
UAE’s indigenous weapon developments accelerate with foreign help. Edge is still largely reliant on foreign expertise in the development of its products, benefiting particularly from South Africa’s knowledge in the defense industry. https://aviationweek.com/shownews/dubai-airshow/uaes-indigenous-weapon-developments-accelerate

***
De Nederlandse maritieme industrie moet zoveel mogelijk worden betrokken bij de vervanging van de onderzeeërs van de marine. Een motie ingediend door SGP-Kamerlid Chris Stoffer daarover werd 17 november aangenomen. https://maritimetechnology.nl/regering-moet-maritieme-industrie-optimaal-betrekken-bij-vervanging-onderzeeboten/

Een recent blog: https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2021/11/varende-stokborden.html

***
Wat een heldere brochure: wapenhandel en permanente oorlog. Als inleiding op wapenproductie en -handel, maar zeker ook voor hen die al ingevoerd zijn in het onderwerp interessant. https://www.sp.nl/sites/default/files/atlas_van_de_macht_wapenhandel_en_permanente_oorlog.pdf

***
Prof. Dr. Hans Joas from Berlin set a big question mark behind the title of a lecture: Peace Project Europe. He pointed out that increased Europeanization could also bring dangers, eg. the watering down of the relatively strict German rules on arms export. https://plus.pnp.de/lokales/passau_stadt/4162389_Uni-als-Ort-der-Forschung-Lehre-und-Gemeinschaft.html

***
Until recently Israel has been spared due criticism, not only for its unlawful spying methods on the Palestinians but also for being the originator of many of the technologies which are now being heavily criticized by human rights groups worldwide. https://dissidentvoice.org/2021/11/from-pegasus-to-blue-wolf-how-israels-security-experiment-in-palestine-became-global/

***
On the 3rd day of the Dubai 2021 Air Show, the #UAE MoD announced the conclusion of 6 agreements worth AED 4bn (€ 1bn)

#LOCKHEEDMARTIN
#GLOBAL_AEROSPACE_LOGISTICS
#THALES
#AGUSTA_WESTLAND
#RHEINMETALL_AIR_DEFENCE

were involved in the largest contracts. https://www.wam.ae/en/details/1395302993364

***
CEA's Military Applications Division launches EXA1 supercomputer for French nuclear weapons simulations. It involves an Atos system (https://atos.net/en/), the fourth used by CEA/DAM.

https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/ceas-military-applications-division-launches-exa1-supercomputer-for-french-nuclear-weapons-simulations/


***
Retweet @_ENAAT: Quite a shortcut: because #EU citizens want to be protected they would want "improved capacities" (i.e. more weapons and military spending), more military interventions abroad and more arms exports ?! ("projection" in understated language) #noEUmoney4arms https://www.euractiv.com/section/defence-and-security/interview/europe-has-to-become-a-security-provider-says-eus-borrell/

***
Retweet @FrankSlijper: Why do companies offer to weaponise commercial helicopters post-sale? Simple: cheaper and much easier in terms of export controls. https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/dubai-air-show/2021/11/17/whats-the-advantage-of-militarizing-commercial-helos-post-sale/

***
Thales negotiates to acquire RUAG International's Simulation & Training business. This to reinforce Thales' relationship with the Swiss Army, to complement Thales's industrial presence in the simulation business & strengthen its footprint in Europe & #UAE. https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/THALES-4715/news/Thales-enters-into-exclusive-negotiations-to-acquire-RUAG-International-s-Simulation-Training-busi-37057110/

***
China is responding to the much larger nuclear arsenals of Russia and US and the increasing numbers of US missile interceptors that undermine China’s confidence in its ability to retaliate. Such tensions call for more diplomacy and arms control, not less. https://www.defensenews.com/opinion/commentary/2021/11/17/to-prevent-nuclear-war-president-biden-should-listen-to-vice-president-biden/

***
The notorious red beret Subianto speaks about fire fighting for new Airbus transport planes for Indonesia. But they are also suited for troop transports, which comes in handy in a archipelago from Sabang to Merauke and TNI focused on internal security. https://asiapacificreport.nz/2021/10/19/sharp-rise-in-papuan-mass-arrests-during-military-operations-says-icp/

Retweet @AirbusDefence: "The A400M greatly enhances the Indonesian Air Force’s tactical air-to-air capabilities. We are also looking at additional A400M in the near term, with future developments such as firefighting capability we are jointly exploring with Airbus." ~Prabowo Subianto, MoD of Indonesia. https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2021-11-indonesia-ministry-of-defence-orders-two-airbus-a400ms

***
The US Navy looks into methods to improve safety to manoeuvre "nuclear-powered steel tubes ... far below the surface" secretive operations after a major accident in October in the South China Sea. Not the first and not the last. https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2021/11/17/navy-holds-navigation-stand-down-for-submarine-force-after-undersea-collision/

November 17

***
With militaries’ locked-in fossil fuel systems and looming climate chaos, the arms industry continues to take advantage of nefarious profit opportunities. https://www.thecairoreview.com/essays/locked-in-emissions-the-climate-change-arms-trade/

***
@FrankSlijper Nigerian Army killed unarmed protesters in October 2020 which could be “equated with a massacre,” a government panel said, refuting the army’s claim that soldiers only fired blanks. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/16/world/africa/nigeria-protest-report-massacare.html

Addition: Nigeria risks US arms embargo over alleged protesters' killings by soldiers. Nigerian The Punch reports. https://punchng.com/nigeria-risks-us-arms-embargo-over-alleged-protesters-killings-by-soldiers/

Addition: While the Netherlands enables Nigeria to transport its troops & vehicles, the US Secretary of State warned that if rights violations persisted, the US might evoke the Leahy Law to deny Nigeria access to military assistance included weaponry. https://punchng.com/endsars-us-may-stop-military-aid-to-nigeria-over-rights-abuse-blinken-warns/

***
Damen launches Landing Ship Transport #LST100 for Nigerian navy. Over the last 2 years several tests with regards to various components and weapons of the LST 100 have been jointly and successfully completed by the Nigerian Navy and Damen Shipyards. https://militaryleak.com/2021/11/17/damen-launches-new-landing-ship-transport-lst-100-for-nigerian-navy/

Addition: Mensenrechtenorganisaties waarschuwen voor een escalerend conflict in het zuidoosten van Nigeria. Groepen die pleiten voor regionale onafhankelijkheid krijgen wind in de zeilen. ‘Repressie is het enige middel dat de Nigeriaanse overheid kent.’ https://www.mo.be/analyse/de-crisis-te-veel-voor-nigeria

***
Officier b.d. brandt Jasper van Dijk af. https://www.telegraaf.nl/watuzegt/2007746351/snapt-links-wel-wat-er-in-de-wereld-gebeurt

De SP parlementariër wees er fijntjes op dat 6 van de 10 grootste wapenproducenten een vestiging ons land hebben. https://joop.bnnvara.nl/opinies/nederland-is-ook-een-paradijs-voor-de-wapenindustrie

Ook GroenLinks moet 't overigens ontgelden bij de gepensioneerde militair.

Aanvulling: Vandaag reageert @JaspervanDijkSP in de Telegraaf: "Wat ons [SP] betreft moeten we zeker een krijgsmacht hebben, maar laten we in vredesnaam stoppen met de steun aan dubieuze Amerikaanse interventies die tot onnoemelijk veel leed hebben geleid." De hele brief die verrassend afsluit. https://www.telegraaf.nl/watuzegt/1565967588/niet-meer-geld-naar-defensie

***
62% of countries face a high to critical risk of corruption in their defence and security sectors, reveals the 2020 Government Defence Integrity Index (GDI), released yesterday by Transparency International Defence and Security programme. https://www.transparency.org/en/press/62-per-cent-countries-at-high-risk-of-defence-and-security-corruption

***
Deception in high places

"The latest facts prove it beyond doubt that the corruption in multi-crore Rafale deal goes right upto the doorstep of Prime Minister Narendra Modi", spokesperson for the All #India Congress Committee #AICC Pawan Khera alleged. https://newsmeter.in/politics/bjp-government-sacrificed-national-security-cong-on-rafale-deal-controversy-686275

***
A Hong Kong-registered company had in 2018 acquired Italian military drone manufacturer Alpi Aviation Srl. It is reported that the acquisition, which may be in violation of Italian laws, evaded the attention of the EU and Italian government’s watchdogs.https://theprint.in/world/3-years-after-acquiring-italian-drone-company-hong-kong-firm-being-probed-for-arms-law-breach/766820/

Addition: In 2018, a Chinese state-controlled company bought an #Italian manufacturer of military #drones. Soon after, it began transferring the company’s know-how and technology—which had been used by the Italian military in Afghanistan—to #China. https://www.wsj.com/articles/china-bought-italian-military-drone-maker-without-authorities-knowledge-11636972513

***
Turkish defence systems company Havelsan is working with Thales Nederland to equip Indonesia's new class of two 90 m offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) with its combat sensors. https://www.janes.com/defence-news/naval-weapons/latest/havelsan-teams-up-with-thales-on-indonesias-90-m-opv-programme Is that part of the new - still tight - Dutch arms export policy on Turkey?

November 16

***
@PAXvoorvrede, @CTWnl and @PILPNJCM submitted to the Dutch courts a summons for a representative of the government to explain the arms deals that the Netherlands has concluded with the Sisi regime during the past year. https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20211116-sisis-battle-with-human-rights-is-not-over-yet/

***


The Biden admin is "fully committed" to a proposed sale of F-35 fighter jets to the UAE, despite the White House slowing down the deal, a senior US official overseeing arms exports said. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/uae-arms-sale-biden-administration-fully-committed-official-says

Enough space to hide components from partners, like Netherlands, etc.

Addition: Are #F35 program partners consulted on potential fighter sales with components produced by their military industries to #UAE & #Qatar?

If not, will they demand to be asked. Or will they wash their hand in innocence with the words: it is a US decision.

https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/us-looking-closely-qatars-f-35-request-official-says

***
Retweet TI Defence&Security @TI_Defence: Nearly two thirds of countries score 49 out of 100 or lower in the #GDI2020. This indicates a high to critical risk of defence sector. Full results -> https://ti-defence.org/gdi/

***
Welcome contribution to debate on arms control by @WolfgangKaleck #ECCHR & @hipp_roland #Greenpeace: The EU isn't the solution, a national arms export control law is required. A contribution to the debate on the design of future German arms export control. https://www.faz.net/einspruch/exklusiv/die-eu-ist-nicht-die-loesung-17630239.html

***
Selling arms to human rights violators a reason to cheer? French fighter deliverances exuberant applauded.

https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/air-defense/rafale-un-succes-de-plus-en-plus-franc-1363807#xtor=RSS-153

***
After the last year normalisation of diplomatic ties with the UAE, Israeli military companies displayed their hardware for the first time at the Dubai Air Show. A paradox: the so-called peace agreement is good for Israeli arms sales. https://www.aljazeera.com/gallery/2021/11/15/photos-dubai-air-show-opens-as-israel-attends-for-the-first-time

***
40 German organisations sent an open letter to German politicians and political parties to demand a end on arms sales to the countries participating in the Saudi led coalition against Yemen.

Retweet @AktionAufschrei: Offener Brief – 40 Organisationen fordern #rüstungsexporte stoppen für #Jemen-Militärkoalition. #EntrüstungJetzt @CDU @spdde @fdp @Die_Gruenen @ABaerbock @OlafScholz @c_lindner Brief hier: https://aufschrei-waffenhandel.de/fileadmin/user_upload/dokumente/offener_brief/2021_11_16_offener_brief_ruestungsexportverbot__jemen-militaerkoalition.pdf PM hier: https://aufschrei-waffenhandel.de/presseerklaerungen-1/16112021-40-organisationen-fordern-keine-ruestungsexporte-fuer-gesamte-jemen-militaerkoalition

***
Emma Soubrier, a fellow with the Arab Gulf States Institute, & an expert on the political economy of the arms trade in the Middle East expects the Biden administration’s new policy will have a modest effect on arms exports] overall. https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2021/11/15/foreign-military-sales-slowing-under-biden

https://agsiw.org/a-new-u-s-weapons-exports-policy-transformed-or-simply-revamped/


***
Nov 3, 21, the US Dep. of Commerce’s #BIS added the Israeli NSO Group & Candiru to the Entity List due to malicious cyber activities, based on evidence that both developed & supplied spyware to foreign governments. In total 12 Israeli entities are listed. https://foleyhoag.com/publications/alerts-and-updates/2021/november/biden-administration-focus-on-cybercrime-continues-with-israeli-companies-added-to-entity-list-new-export-controls-and-cryptocurrency-sanctions

November 15

***
The Hindu: Explainer | S-400 Triumf long-range air defence system

India has a series of big-ticket high-tech deals lined up with both Russia and the U.S. and it will be a tightrope walk for New Delhi in balancing the two.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/explained-s-400-triumf-long-range-air-defence-system/article37499541.ece

***
The business plan was risky, but forecast a mammoth profit. The company fronted by a handsome and charismatic former #Australian AF elite pilot.

"markets included places better known for bullets, beheadings and bombs: Libya, Somalia, Afghanistan, Iraq."

https://www.afr.com/policy/foreign-affairs/conflict-entrepreneurs-the-dollars-behind-war-zone-work-20211110-p597lv

***
The #UAE air force bought 2 A330 Multirole Tanker Transport #MRTT from #Airbus, bringing the MRTT fleet to 5. Deliveries start in 2024. The deal includes also upgrades of the whole A330 MRTT fleet.

Tankers give fighter aircraft a wider range. https://www.boursier.com/actions/actualites/news/airbus-les-emirats-arabes-unis-commandent-2-appareils-pour-leur-defense-aerienne-862641.html

***
In June Swiss Parliament voted in favor of the US F-35. Now Airbus casts doubt on the selection process. Politicians and the MoD looses patience. Opposition prepares a referendum to include a prohibition on the acquisition of the F-35 in the Constitution. https://www.blick.ch/schweiz/airbus-macht-stimmung-gegen-entscheid-politiker-genervt-die-heimliche-luftschlacht-um-den-f-35-id16985141.html

***
"Naval Defence" website published on November 9 that the Dutch shipyard Damen has submitted a proposal to respond to the corvette program of the Greek Navy with its SIGMA 10514 frigate. https://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/naval-news/naval-news-archive/2021/november/10992-dutch-shipyard-damen-submits-its-sigma-10514-frigate-for-hellenic-navy-program.html

It is worth to read the original from Greek: https://navaldefence.gr/damen-strikes-back-10514-for-hellenic-navy/

***
Emirati conglomerate Edge Group has unveiled a series of vertical-takeoff-and-landing drones (QX-5 and QX-6) as well as a precision-guided munition system. https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/dubai-air-show/2021/11/14/emirati-conglomerate-unveils-two-drones-and-a-weapons-system/

***
India has formally lifted its 7-year-long ban on Italy’s Leonardo, thus allowing it to take part in the bidding for defence contracts in the future. The company was blacklisted after it was accused of paying bribes to get a $48m Indian government contract. https://www.deccanherald.com/national/govt-withdraws-ban-on-italian-defence-firm-leonardo-spa-1050822.html

Addition: India removes Leonardo from list of banned companies
An MoD official said the suspension was lifted on the grounds of operational urgency and because of a lack of available alternatives for procuring 127mm naval guns and heavy-weight torpedoes.https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2021/11/16/india-removes-leonardo-from-list-of-banned-companies/

November 14

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European missile producer #MBDA opens permanent office in #Brussels to accelerate EU, NATO defence projects. https://www.defenseworld.net/news/30755/MBDA_Opens_Permanent_Office_in_Brussels_to_Accelerate_EU__NATO_Defence_Projects

***
French journal Mediapart has made fresh claims that alleged bogus invoices were used that enabled French aircraft maker Dassault Aviation to pay at least 7.5 million euros in secret commissions to a middleman to help it secure the Rafale deal with India. https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/french-journal-makes-fresh-claims-of-kickbacks-in-rafale-deal-121110801408_1.html

November 13

***
Je zou het boek van commando Gijs Tuinman https://www.telegraaf.nl/nieuws/142076747/ridder-gijs-tuinman-vertelt-voor-het-eerst-over-geheime-commando-acties-in-afghanistan eens naast de feitelijke rapporten uit de Afghanistan wikileaks over TF55 en TF Uruzgan moeten leggen. https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8nHmbT0qNjWbF96THAzRFdOaHc/ Mij viel juist op dat TB-aanvallen tot de einddatum v/d lek doorgaan tot voor de poort.

Reactie @Gleemput: P 227 en verder

***
Israel, India agree to develop bilateral defence tech. Just weeks after Israel & India agreed to identify new areas in defense cooperation, the two countries signed an agreement to develop bilateral tech such as drones, artificial intelligence and more. https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/israel-india-agree-to-develop-bilateral-defence-technology-684692


***
The Committees on Arms Export Controls holds a further oral evidence session for its inquiry into UK arms exports in 2019. https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/15/committees-on-arms-export-controls/news/158867/hm-revenue-and-customs-officials-questioned-on-uk-arms-exports-in-2019/

***
US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Bob Menendez strongly opposes the sale of F-16 fighter jets and modernisation kits to #Turkey, insisting human rights conditions in the NATO member state needed to be improved first. https://ahvalnews.com/turkey-arms/us-senate-foreign-relations-committee-chair-opposes-turkey-f-16-sale


Addition:
Dutch export of military aircraft parts to the US are exported, but what happens with the components, in respect to re-exports, is let to Washington. This is the result for 2021 until September.

***
Turkish TAI installs missile destroyer on A400M aircraft. TAI holds a 7% share in A400M consortium, which involves Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Spain, Turkey, Britain & Malaysia. (Other companies with shares BAE Systems, EADS & Belgium’s Flabel.) https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2021/11/12/tai-installs-missile-destroyer-on-a400m-aircraft/

***
Brussels police constable sentenced for rol in illegal arms trade.

Een Brusselse politiecommissaris is veroordeeld tot 15 maanden cel voor zijn aandeel in een grootschalige wapentrafiek. Hij kreeg ook 'n boete van € 16.000. https://www.nieuwsblad.be/cnt/dmf20211112_96461342

November 12

***
Dutch arms fair and exhibition #NEDS2021 postponed because of Covid-19 restrictions to 24 februari 2022 also in Rotterdam. https://www.nidvexhibition.eu/

November 11

***
Oranje blanje bleu lobby blijft maar klagen over de afwezigheid van garanties dat Nederlandse industrie wordt ingezet bij bouw Nederlandse onderzeeërs. Dit terwijl nog niet duidelijk is wie ze gaat bouwen; een Duits-NLse, Frans-Nlse of Zweeds-NLse combi. https://maritimetechnology.nl/duidelijkheid-over-inbreng-nederlandse-kennis-en-kunde-voor-onderzeeboten-blijft-uit/

***
Retweet @Drone_Wars_UK: World’s militaries avoiding scrutiny over emissions - @guardian. Important work by @ResponsibleSci. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/nov/11/worlds-militaries-avoiding-scrutiny-over-emissions

***
A loosely written overview of Dutch activities & business opportunities concerning cyber security. It includes this: NATO’s Communications and Information #NCI Agency acquires, deploys & defends communications systems for NATO’s political decision-makers.https://investinholland.com/news/decrypting-cybersecurity-in-the-netherlands/

***
Explaining Indonesia’s Under-balancing: The Case of the Modernisation of the Air Force and the Navy. Writers conclude that combating internal security threats in Papua, reiterated by MoD Prabowo, may result in the perpetuation of army dominance within TNI. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/23477970211039645

***
Role of European Defence Agency in European military tech innovations. EU leaders weigh new innovation hub role for #EDA. EU defence ministers on Nov. 16 will consider beefing up EDA’s role in breeding technology that can be used by the EU's armed forces. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2021/11/10/eu-leaders-weigh-new-innovation-hub-role-for-the-european-defence-agency/

November 10

***
The Biden administration likely understands that it cannot limit itself to working only with democracies. This is surely one of the reasons that the United States continues to approve arms sales to partners that respect neither democracy nor human rights. https://warontherocks.com/2021/11/the-am

Weeks after Biden’s inauguration, the State Department approved the sale of missiles to Egypt. after that the US approved lucrative defense contracts to other countries with problematic records on democracy and human rights, like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the Philippines, & Thailand.

Addition: Letter to President Biden on US Policy toward the Middle East.

Military support to Egypt, arms sales to Israel, UAE and Saudi-Arabia, not surprising Human Rights Watch asks the president to return to his campaign promises (which seem quickly forgotten). https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/11/09/letter-president-biden-us-policy-toward-middle-east

***
Negotiations between Turkish and South Korean companies to power Turkey’s first indigenous tank are shifting from plans for co-production in the European country to an off-the-shelf contract, Turkish procurement and industry sources told Defense News. https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2021/11/10/altay-power-pack-talks-between-turkey-skorea-changes-to-off-the-shelf-supply

***
The Pakistan Navy has held a keel laying ceremony for its 4th Milgem-class corvette at the Karachi shipyard KS&EW.

https://www.navaltoday.com/2021/11/05/keel-laid-for-pakistan-navys-final-milgem-class-corvette/

With Dutch radar: https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2020/11/dutch-military-naval-technology-to.html

https://quwa.org/2020/05/03/the-jinnah-class-frigate-pakistans-next-generation-warship-2/

***
A role for refugees

Ironically, the situations from which these people [on the Polish/Belarus border] have fled were often caused by the greed and aggression of us in the west, as well as others, the profitable arms trade playing no small role. https://www.pressreader.com/uk/the-independent-1029/20211110/282282438537306

***
Arianespace will launch three CERES Earth observation satellites for French defence and security applications on board Vega rocket https://www.arianespace.com/press-release/arianespace-will-launch-three-ceres-earth-observation-satellites-for-french-defense-and-security-applications-on-board-vega/ (with Dutch high tech components, https://www.airbusdefenceandspacenetherlands.nl/nl/gelanceerde-vega-raket-uitgerust-met-hollandse-hightech/)

***
Sous-marins australiens: chez Naval Group, après le choc. Detailed ins & outs of the ended Australian submarine program and the future export potential of the Naval Group (owned 35% by Thales, also mother company of most important Dutch military producer). https://www.lesechos.fr/weekend/business-story/sous-marins-australiens-chez-naval-group-apres-le-choc-1362543

***
Rechts in Kamer wil dat nw onderzeeboot in Nederland kan worden onderhouden en impliceren dat dit alleen bij gunning aan Damen/Saab kan.

https://www.ad.nl/politiek/kamer-nieuwe-onderzeeboot-moet-in-nederland-worden-onderhouden~a728061d/

Het klinkt als lobby-positie van de wapenindustrie die vorige week naar buiten werd gebracht.

https://www.nidv.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/NIDV-Magazine-2021-3-DEFINITIEF-Web.pdf


***
Europe’s deadly trade: arms exports By- Collectif, sous la direction deBenjamin Vokar Comic Book Launch & Panel Discussion – December 1st at Brussels https://www.rosalux.eu/en/article/2042.europe-s-deadly-trade-arms-exports.html

***
The US science association #AAAS spending on military R&D reached $73bn in 2020 — 20x the government’s spending on energy research. Even if Biden's Build Back Better plan passes, military R&D will still be 10x larger than spending on energy research. https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/11/09/why-we-need-long-telegram-about-climate-crisis-not-conflict-with-china-or-russia/

***
A US metallurgist in pleaded guilty to fraud Monday after she spent decades - 1985-2017 - faking the results of strength tests on steel that was being used to make US nuclear submarines. The government didn't disclose which subs were affected. https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2021/11/08/metallurgist-admits-faking-steel-test-results-for-navy-subs/

***
While the contract attack submarine with the French Naval Group may not have been perfect, the Government’s plan for nuclear submarines is beyond the existing skillsets of Australia’s local industry, wrote the CEO of Weld Australia. https://www.aumanufacturing.com.au/lack-of-local-skills-will-impact-nuclear-submarine-manufacture

November 9

***
Turkish Dearsan Shipyard will build 2 Offshore Patrol Vessels for the #Nigerian navy. The OPV’s will be armed with:

76 mm and 40mm #Leonardo Gun
2 x 12.7 mm automatic and
2 x 12.7 manuel machine guns
2 x 2 surface to air missiles by #MBDA. https://navalpost.com/nigerian-navy-opv-contract-with-dearsan/

***
The discussion & negotiation on military emission are almost missing at the Glasgow UN #COP26 Conference. Though militaries are major emitters, the 2015 Paris Agreement has left the greenhouse gas emission target to the discretion of individual countries. https://gulfnews.com/opinion/op-eds/how-wars-contribute-to-global-warming-1.83520236

Addition: CAMPAIGNERS condemned military “greenwashing” at the Cop26 climate summit today, and demanded an end to the silence surrounding the defence industry’s role in climate chaos. https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/campaigners-call-out-military-greenwashing-at-cop26

***
Joe #Biden has recently violated his campaign-time promises of ceasing arms sales to #Saudi's, which came in response to rights groups’ criticism. He approved weapons exports to the Arab kingdom in the first publicized deal since he assumed the power. https://en.abna24.com/news//analysis-will-new-us-arms-sales-to-saudi-arabia-tip-scales-in-riyadh%e2%80%99s-favor_1196929.html

***
Kernenergie? #Fukushima #Tsjernobyl #ThreeMileIsland #AQKhan #etc



***
With the Ground Master 400, the Moroccan Air Forces have a decisive military advantage. This new contract testifies to the renewed confidence of the Moroccan authorities in Thales, a long-time partner of Rabat. https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/group/press_release/thales-ground-master-family-radars-celebrates-milestone-100th-deployment

Retweet @Cocoamok: Algeria and Morocco on collision course https://bukraa.com/2021/11/07/algeria-and-morocco-on-collision-course/ via @jan_keulen

***
F-35 fighter sale to UAE a difficult negotiation. That's not because the Emirates have a bad human rights track record. No because it has first to remove Chinese firm Huawei from its telecommunications network, some consider the ultimatum. #PowerOverRights https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/dubai-air-show/2021/11/08/abu-dhabis-dilemma-will-the-uae-ever-operate-the-f-35/

But also others are involved.

Tier 1: United Kingdom
Tier 2: Italy, Netherlands
Tier 3: Australia, Canada, Denmark, Norway
Security Cooperative Participants: Israel, Singapore
FMS Participants: Belgium, Japan, South Korea

They, beside Israel, keep quiet. https://www.f35.com/f35/global-enterprise.html


***
“A grim outlook”: How cyber surveillance is booming on a global scale

New data paints a detailed picture of the ways Western companies are selling cyber weapons and surveillance technology to NATO’s enemies. https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/11/08/1039395/grim-outlook-cyber-boom-atlantic-council-report/

French https://en.milipol.com/ and UK https://www.securityandpolicing.co.uk/ are the two most widely attended arms fairs for the high/medium-confidence firms selling interception/intrusion capabilities. https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Surveillance-Technology-at-the-Fair.pdf

Action Sécurité Ethique Républicaines visited Milipol and published its findings. #ASER stated there is an urgent need for NGOs to take an interest in companies which, like ATOS, are working on the prevention of risks, observation and monitoring. https://aser-asso.org/milipol-2021-un-salon-sous-surveillance/

November 8

***
Retweet @PAXvoorvrede: Morgen, 9 november, staat de Nederlandse staat voor de rechter voor een kort geding over wapenexport naar Egypte. De zaak is aangespannen door PAX, @stopwapenhandel en @PILPNJCMom de export van wapens naar Egypte te stoppen en de ernst van de situatie kenbaar te maken. ¼

***
Betekent dit dat er een einde komt aan de enorme hoeveelheid #Atradius DSB exportkredieten voor Damen schepen voor de Nigeriaanse offshore industrie? https://www.nu.nl/klimaat/6166184/nederland-draait-op-klimaattop-einde-aan-buitenlandse-investeringen-olie-en-gas.html Zie m'n blog Dutch naval and maritime protection of Shell in #Nigeria (met tabel). https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2021/05/dutch-naval-and-maritime-protection-of.html

Dutch major daily Telegraaf on 'the end of Dutch glory' and 1,000 jobs because of stopping State Export Credits for fossil fuel related projects. Damen states it does no know yet what it will mean for them. https://www.telegraaf.nl/financieel/1336673264/hollands-glorie-op-achterstand-bij-fossiele-projecten-in-buitenland

***
Is China a US enemy? Many in the US government think so. But CODEPINK, an anti-war NGO in the US, launched a campaign called "China is Not Our Enemy" to advocate peace with China. Reporters of the notorious Global Times interviewed the coordinator. https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202111/1238257.shtml

***
“Turkey’s drone sales are dangerous, destabilizing and a threat to peace and human rights,” added Menendez. “The US should have no part of it, and this amendment is a recognition that we must prevent US parts from being included in these Turkish weapons.” https://www.menendez.senate.gov/newsroom/press/chairman-menendez-announces-ndaa-amendments-to-hold-turkey-and-azerbaijan-accountable

***
Indian press coverage: German engines powering China's warships: EU arms ban torpedoed by dual-use tech. https://www.theweek.in/news/world/2021/11/07/german-engines-powering-china-warships-eu-arms-ban-torpedoed-by-dual-use-tech.html

***
Brave Turkey withstand the outer world and builds its domestic arms industry against the tight, that's the tone from the Turkish establishment. https://www.dailysabah.com/business/defense/turkey-advances-toward-fully-independent-defense-industry But in fact it is done at high cost for society and with massive help from abroad. https://stopwapenhandel.org/turkish-defence-industry-not-a-miracle/

***
Nederlandse Staat voor de rechter vanwege wapenexport naar Egypt https://stopwapenhandel.org/nederlandse-staat-voor-de-rechter-vanwege-wapenexport-naar-egypte/

Dutch State before Court over arms export to Egypt

***
Internal EU draft document, Strategic Compass, seen by Bloomberg says EU members should be prepared to boost #EDF European Defense Fund after 2027. Text aims to establish an EU Intervention Force by 2025 which can be deployed without unanimous decision. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-11-03/eu-sees-military-intervention-force-by-2025-in-draft-proposal

***
Retweet @IISS_org: Unlike the Cold War, where crisis management and avoidance mechanisms were established between the US and the USSR, such arrangements are either unravelling, outdated or completely absent in #Asia, argue @BrendanKTaylor and @DrTimHuxley. https://www.iiss.org/publications/Adelphi/2021/Asias-New-Geopolitics

November 7

***
Myanmar citizens victims of regime and Cold War position of China in UN SC.

Rights groups called on the UN to impose a global arms embargo to stop the flow of weapons and dual-use goods to the Myanmar military government.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/11/5/over-500-rights-groups-urge-un-to-stop-myanmar-armys-violence

***
A group of Republican senators introduced a bill that would set aside $2 billion! a year in military aid, including hypersonics, to Taiwan to ensure the autonomous island is able to stand up to the People's Republic of China. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/us-republicans-want-billions-taiwan-military-aid-counter-china-2021-11-04/

***
‘Ik stem er niet mee in’

Niet iedereen was enthousiast over de deal. Bert Grimmius #GroenLinks) vond het niet zo’n sterk plan dat de gemeente optreedt als ‘bankier’. Peter Stremler #PAB is ‘tegen staatssteun’ aan bedrijven en stemde o.a. daarom tegen.

https://www.ad.nl/dordrecht/miljoeneninvestering-in-fokker-gaat-officieel-door-wat-een-kansen-voor-jongens-en-meisjes-hier~ab7b7784/

‘Ik stem er niet mee in’

omdat Fokker/GKN een van de belangrijkste wapenproducenten in Nederland is en F-16 onderdelen worden geëxporteerd naar tal van landen. Ook waar men het minder nauw neemt met rechten van burgers en buurlanden, voeg ik zelf mogelijk ten overvloede toe.

***
#a4ESSOR (Alliance for ESSOR), a multinational joint venture developing secure European Software Defined Radio technology, has signed a procurement contract with #OCCAR and received funding from the European Defence Industrial Development Programme #EDIDP. https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/05-11-2021-a4essor-and-occar-sign-essor-new-capabilities-enc-contracts-embark-on-new-telecommunications-projects-focusing-on-armed-forces-interoperability

***
Bestaat de kans dat Nederland nog meer oorlogsschepen aan Marokko gaat verkopen? https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/et-si-fincantieri-etait-le-plus-feroce-des-concurrents-de-naval-group-894552.html

***
Almost 3 years ago Naval Group won the Romanian corvette order. But only now, the contract for 4 naval vessels is in the final phase. The navy announced that permits for signing the contract between the Constanța Shipyard & Naval Group 've been met. Why? https://www.realitatea.net/stiri/actual/culisele-statului-paralel-corvetele-din-franta-intarzie-sa-apara-in-romania_61854d6a8eb0292c614aa653

***
Tussen de mega-rijken is Kommer Damen de grootste verliezer. Toch hoeft niemand medelijden te hebben met de commissaris van Damen Scheepswerven, o.a. bouwer van oorlogsschepen.

Quote schat Kommer Damens vermogen nog altijd op € 425 miljoen. https://www.pzc.nl/dordrecht/bijna-miljardair-baggerbroers-en-plofkipverkoper-deze-mensen-uit-de-regio-staan-in-de-quote-500~acf488ba/

***
"De NAVO heeft aan haar leden opgelegd de militaire uitgaven op te voeren tot 2 procent van het Bruto Binnenlands Product. Letterlijk een aanzet tot een nieuwe wapenwedloop, vooral goed voor de wapenindustrie."

Het artikel sluit af met de constatering dat veiligheidsbeleid moet worden geherdefinieerd vanwege de ervaringen met Covid en de steeds groter wordende natuurkrachten (het woord klimaatverandering wordt vermeden). Veiligheid is geen militaire kwestie, maar allereerst een sociale.

Retweet @JaspervanDijkSP: De NAVO heeft niet alleen enorm gefaald in Afghanistan, het heeft dood en verderf gezaaid in een straatarm land. Tijd voor een andere defensiepolitiek. Mijn opinie in het @brabantsdagblad

November 6

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Turkey replaces #Thales Netherlands SMART-S Mk2 radar with the #Aselsan MAR-D on tank landing ship TCG Bayraktar. https://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/naval-news/naval-news-archive/2021/november/10953-turkey-replaces-smart-s-mk2-radar-with-the-mar-d-on-tcg-bayraktar.html

***
Het blad van de Nederlandse wapenlobby is weer uit. De nieuwe voorzitster, voormalig PvdA-Kamerlid, wil banen in de wapenindustrie aan jongeren slijten. Ze noemt dit opkomen voor veiligheid. https://www.nidv.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/NIDV-Magazine-2021-3-DEFINITIEF-Web.pdf

***
In 2020 Finland exported arms worth €160.9m. The lowest since 2011. But Finland granted two export licenses to the UAE for a total value of 139.3 million euros. Both licenses were for components of military vehicles. https://saferglobe.fi/armsreport/

***
Active sales campaigns for Lockheed Martin’s F-35 are underway in the Czechia, Greece & Spain, officials say.

And at the same time they will lobby for more financial and organisational structures for European defence industry consolidation.

https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/three-european-countries-eyeing-f-35

Addition: French press on Spanish F-35 move: Spanish government must be clear on what it wants. The country has just presented a 2022 draft budget very focused on social spending and is already struggling to honor the commitments made in certain European programs. https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/air-defense/lespagne-menace-dacheter-des-f-35-americains-pour-peser-davantage-dans-le-programme-de-defense-europeen-1361816

Addition: Spain has no interest in the American F-35 fighter jet and is solely committed to the Future Combat Air System that it is pursuing with France and Germany, a defense spokeswoman told Reuters. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2021/11/09/spains-ministry-of-defense-denies-interest-in-the-f-35/

Addition: Who's right, who's wrong? A Lockheed Martin executive says discussions continue with the Spanish government about a potential future order of F-35Bs and F-35As despite a firm denial by Madrid. https://aviationweek.com/shownews/dubai-airshow/lockheed-re-affirms-spanish-f-35-talks-despite-madrid-denial

***
Glasgow demonstration travelled from the Home Office to BAE Systems to highlight the links between the climate crisis, Britain’s racist immigration policies and the arms trade — and in solidarity with climate and war refugees. https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/cop26-protest-demands-end-to-the-hostile-environment-and-the-arms-trade

***
US sanctions NSO Group, Israeli maker of Pegasus spyware

US authorities said the NSO Group's spyware helped authoritarian governments "silence dissent." The new measures will limit NSO Group's access to US components and technology.

https://www.dw.com/en/us-sanctions-nso-group-israeli-maker-of-pegasus-spyware/a-59711260

***
Nog deze week in de Tweede Kamer, tijdens het wapenexportdebat, argumenteerde de Minister van Buitenlandse Zaken waarom je Turkije best wel militire marine technologie kan leveren. Hier wordt uit een ander vaatje getapt.

(Kwam waarschijnlijk goed uit voor Thales aangezien op 4 februari 2021 een levering geweigerd werd van onderdelen voor radar- en C3-systemen te leveren aan het Turkse Aselsan en bestemd voor de Turkse marine. https://t.co/FMz1tFghY5?amp=1)

The United States should support stability in the Eastern Mediterranean by strengthening its role in NATO, increasing cooperation with Greece and other partners, and putting pressure on Turkey when necessary. https://www.defensenews.com/opinion/commentary/2021/11/04/countering-erdogan-what-biden-must-do-for-the-sake-of-stability/

***
Washington OKs missiles worth $650M for #Saudis The weapons would support Saudi Arabia’s #European Eurofighter Typhoon, and US F-15C/D, F-15S and F-I5SA. https://www.defensenews.com/air/2021/11/04/washington-oks-missiles-worth-650m-for-saudis/

***
One of the many articles on the rising Turkish drone exports, without care for peace and human rights: Kyrgyzstan signed a deal to purchase Turkish armed drones last week, two Turkish sources familiar with the issue told Middle East Eye. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/kyrgyzstan-turkey-first-drone-sale-central-asia

***
US Senator Bob Menendez introduced a piece of legislation on Thursday that seeks to track and restrict the sale of American parts to Turkey's drone programme and investiate if any program since 2018 of their drones contain US-made parts. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/top-us-senator-introduces-legislation-track-us-drone-parts-turkey

***
Norway’s largest pension fund divests from 14 arms firms: Rolls Royce, Raytheon, Thales, Babcock International, China Shipbuilding Industry, Dassault Aviation, Elbit Systems, General Dynamics, KBR, L3Harris Technologies, Larsen & Toubro, Leidos & Leonardo. https://www.norwaynews.com/norways-largest-pension-fund-divests-from-14-arms-firms/

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Retweet @hmtillack: PS für Peking: Kriegsschiffe mit in Deutschland entwickelten Motoren werden von China offenkundig auch bei der Sicherung von umstrittenen Inseln im Südchinesischen Meer eingesetzt. Recherche für @reportmuenchen und @WELTAMSONNTAG, mit @Philipp_Gruell.
https://www.welt.de/politik/deutschland/article234869472/Deutsche-Firmen-lieferten-Motoren-fuer-chinesische-Kriegsschiffe.html

November 4

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A $3bn submarine with a nuclear reactor run aground because it had no sufficient maps & still wanted to operated without active sonar to keep silent.

New Cold War starts bring back memories to the Neptune Papers of @Greenpeace produced by @warkin. https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2021/11/03/how-could-the-uss-connecticut-sub-crash-into-an-undersea-mountain/

***
This trend of military build-up fits neatly with the use of proxies by the UAE & Saudi Arabia... Needless to say, the billions spent on weapons purchases and on the production of this local arms industry could be put to better use in a region that is marked by widespread poverty.

Retweet @TNInstitute: Saudi Arabia and the UAE have pursued an aggressive foreign policy to further their interests in North Africa, West Asia and the Horn of Africa. What are their aims and methods? Read @RafeefZiadah’s essay to learn more: https://longreads.tni.org/saudi-uae-interventions-arms-aid-and-counter-revolution

***
European corvette #EPC program comes of steam. Meanwhile, a list of about 40 firms, all from around Europe, have been assembled as potential sub-contractors: Greek, Dutch, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, Portuguese, and German businesses are on the list. https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/feindef/2021/11/03/amid-high-hopes-can-the-european-patrol-corvette-deliver/

The vessel is also expected to provide a push also for the European’s combat and platform systems suppliers as it is being envisaged to include a variant to be offered on the export market. https://www.edrmagazine.eu/the-pescos-european-patrol-corvette-epc-programme-gains-momentum-2

November 3

_________

Wapenexport debat tweets

→ In de pers is wapenhandel de handel van criminelen in handvuurwapens. In het Kamerdebat gaat het over wapens die soms p.s. honderden miljoenen kosten en geleverd worden aan Marokko, Pakistan, Indonesië, Nigeria, UAE etc. Het daar zelden over. Hier wel een begin van een draadje.

→ Voorzitter Van der Lee constateert, dat maar een klein aantal van de 19 partijen vertegenwoordigd is. Van Haga begint gelijk met een stevig pleidooi voor soepeler wapenexportbeleid. #Wapenhandel2021 Nederland slaap en is het braafste jongetje van de klas.

→ Van Dijk van de SP vraagt of het Kamerlid Klink weet dat wapens geen bloemen zijn en dat leveranties gevolgen kunnen hebben voor de mensenrechten in derde landen. Toch blijft hij bij het punt dat Nederland te restrictief is en er is geen gelijk speelveld. #RaceToTheBottom

→ Je kan ook allen streven naar strenger toetsen, zegt Van Dijk. Klink blijft bij zijn punt. Zweden en Duitsland zijn minder streng en oordelen ook naar eer en geweten. Duitse onderzeeboten naar Turkije, Israël en Egypte normaal?

→ Van Haga pleit voor het Europees harmoniseren op het gemiddelde. De initiatief VVD nota van Helvert en Bosman. Ik schreef er al eens een stukje over. https://stopwapenhandel.org/afbraak-wapenexportcontrole/

→ Klink zegt dat Nederland geen wapens maakt maar hoogwaardige technologie produceert. Daar gaan we weer: wapens knallen en zeggen boem. Dat was zo. De militaire technologie wordt juist met het jaar belangrijker. We moeten ook overal in de wereld de veiligheid kunnen bevorderen.

→ Belhaj (D66) bestrijdt de relativering dat Nederland alleen onbelangrijke onderdelen levert. Ook kleine delen spelen een rol in wapenleveranties. Klink vindt dat Nederland onbetrouwbaar wordt door geen vergunningen te verstrekken.

→ Klink probeert de banden tussen Ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken en individuele Nederlandse producenten van militaire technologie structureel te versterken.
Welke afwijkende controle is er op exporten naar Turkije?

→ Klink gooit dual-use en militaire goederen van hoogtechnologische waarde op een hoop, terwijl ze beiden strategische goederen zijn. Dual-use en militaire goederen zijn de twee componenten ervan. Maar ja als je een trapje een wapen noemt in een Tweede Kamerdbat, tja...

→ Dual use gaat voor Nederland over kernenergie, informatie beveiliging, chemicaliën, zie: https://rijksoverheid.nl/onderwerpen/exportcontrole-strategische-goederen/documenten/rapporten/2016/10/01/overzicht-dual-use-vergunningen
Recent schreef ik een artikel over een deel daarvan. https://stopwapenhandel.org/who-are-the-clients-for-dutch-information-security-tech/

→ Van Dijk gaat in op Nederlandse leveranties aan het Egypte van Morsi en vraagt om een strenger beleid op dit land, evenals op Turkije en VAE, de zogenaamde presumption of denial.

→ Stop Wapenhandel constateerde dat er vergunningen groter dan € 2 miljoen niet gemeld zijn. Van Dijk vraagt waarom niet. Hier wordt uitgelegd waarom niet: https://stopwapenhandel.org/grote-verdwijntruc-binnen-nederlandse-wapenexportcontrole/ Maar waarom is dit niet wenselijk?

→ Zijn banen voor de SP niet belangrijk vraagt Klink VVD aan Van Dijk. Dit artikel uit onverdachte bron is nog steeds waardevol: https://militairespectator.nl/thema/bedrijfsvoering/artikel/militaire-productie-en-neerlands-welvaren

→ Eppink (JA21) vraagt zich af wat Turkije heeft verbeterd zodat het wapenexportbeleid weer verspeld kan worden. Diplomatie rel, troepen naar de grens, wapens verdwijnen in Noord-Syrië. Hoe gaat de Minister vaststellen dat de wapens niet in Noord-Syrië worden gebruikt.

→ Belhaj welke volgende stappen worden gezet in harmonisatie op Europees niveau? Zouden lidstaten geen vraagtekens kunnen zetten bij leverantie van een ander land en dit laten onderzoeken door een onafhankelijke organisatie.

→ Belhaj: Het onderscheid tussen krijgsmacht onderdelen in Egypte is vreemd. Ze begrijpt de leveranties niet, ze vindt het merkwaardig en ingewikkeld. Ze deelt de zorgen. Wapens kunnen veranderen van inzet. Het begrip tijd zou deel van de afweging moeten worden.

→ Deze Parlementsleden doen aan het wapenexportdebat:
@KlinkJan (@VVD)
@JaspervanDijkSP (@SP)
@TomvanderLee(@GroenLinks)
@SalimaBelhaj (@D66)
@djeppink (@JA21)
@WybrenvanHaga (Groep Van Haga/@BelangVanNL)

Zes partijen van de 19 in de Tweede Kamer, zelfs geen PvdA, geen CDA.

→ Ben Knapen (@KnapenBen) verdedigt de wisseling der meningen. We kunnen niet zeggen wat er is gebeurt met surveillance apparatuur die 10-15 jaar gelden is geleverd aan China.

→ @SalimaBelhajgaat in op de factor tijd. Je zou kunnen kijken naar de betrouwbaarheid in het verleden, stelt ze Toch mis ik hier de blik naar de toekomst, dreigingsanalyses zijn een belangrijk onderdeel van militaire en veiligheidspolitiek, waarom dan niet bij wapenexporten?

→ Van der Lee @TomvanderLee vraagt of het niet verstandig is om geen wapens te leveren aan autoritaire regimes. Knapen legt uit dat wapenexportbeleid geen sanctiebeleid is, we wegen af. Egypte heeft een functie in de regionale veiligheid, je kan dus wel leveren en kritiek hebben.

→ Minister van Buitenlandse Zaken @KnapenBen legt uit dat het ingewikkeld is om vast beleid te hebben voor 10 jaar. De zaak is altijd in beweging. Zo is Turkije zich op maritiem gebied beter gaan gedragen, stelt hij. We handelen op grond van de feiten die zich hebben voorgedaan.

→ Turkije krijgt wel maritieme systemen, maar geen wielen voor tanks, zegt Knapen. @JaspervanDijkSP zegt dat Turkije en Egypte niet voldoen aan de criteria. Knapen reageert met betrekking tot Turkije en het mensenrechtencriterium. Criteria kunnen met elkaar op gespannen voet staan. Je moet afwegen. De strenge positie m.b.t. Turkije kon niet blijven duren. Turkije is NAVO-bondgenoot. @djeppink komt met het Nagorna-Karabach conflict waar Turkije drones aan leverde. Azerbeidzjan zou onderdeel van de afweging moeten zijn. Volgens Knapen gebeurt dat.

→ Eppink vervolgt dat je al hebt gezien waartoe Turkije in staat is. Knapen vindt dat je niet bij voorbaat uit gaan van kwader trouw. Even over die marine en tank weigeringen. In 2021 was er een weigering en die betrof Onderdelen voor radar- en C3-systemen te leveren aan Aselsan.

→ In 2020 was er een weigering m.b.t. Turkije rond voertuigen. Weigeringen zijn hier te vinden: https://rijksoverheid.nl/binaries/rijksoverheid/documenten/rapporten/2019/03/04/historisch-overzicht-afgewezen-aanvragen-voor-militaire-goederen/Historisch-overzicht-denials-11102021.csv

→ De industrie heeft de taak om te mopperen, zegt Knapen. Wij luisteren en kijken of we er wat mee doen. Daar waar het wringt overleggen we. De Regering zoekt een balans. Van Dijk komt terug op Egypte en zal een motie indienen.

→ Knapen belooft dat een wetenschappelijk onderzoek rond surveillance apparatuur gebruikt zal worden om deze technologie te definiëren die verschilt in toepassingen en techniek. Een technische briefing wordt aabngeboden.

→ Voor wie nog niet genoeg heeft. @CTWnl twitterde ook met het debat op 3 november mee.
________

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Unfrozen relations on Arabian peninsular with Israel opens the route for Israeli arms industry to the countries awash in petrodollars. #IAI and #Rafael will for the first time exhibit at the Dubai Airshow taking place from 14-16/11. https://staging.taktikz.com/israel-aerospace-rafael-to-exhibit-at-dubai-airshow-for-the-first-time-ever/

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German arms exports were down 17 per cent in the first half of 2021 compared to the same time frame last year, according to a report prepared by the Economics Ministry in Berlin ahead of a cabinet meeting Wednesday. https://www.rtl.de/cms/bundesregierung-genehmigt-deutlich-weniger-ruestungsexporte-4859159.html

***
“It’s not too late for the UN SC to do what it should have done long ago: impose a legally binding global arms embargo on Myanmar to send a clear message to the junta that business as usual is out of the question,” Louis Charbonneau of HRW said. https://www.ft.com/content/fdc4a13d-d00a-4cdf-bd09-2af054583377

***
Turkey unleashes hard power wave in Africa with drone sales

Requests flow in for game-changing devices after Azerbaijan victory

https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Turkey-unleashes-hard-power-wave-in-Africa-with-drone-sales

November 2

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Israeli military technology (Elbit Systems, Electronic Warfare) on future Dutch Belgian frigates.

Retweet @marineschepen: Stoorzender voor de nieuwe Nederlandse en Belgische fregatten? Een van de opties voor het pakket voor Elektronische Oorlogvoering is afkomstig van Elbit Systems. In dit [door Elbit] gesponsorde artikel meer over dit nieuwe EOV-systeem: https://marineschepen.nl/dossiers/Elbit-elektronische-oorlogvoering.html

***
Retweet with coment @EUDefenceAgency:
We're hiring!
Looking for your next #EUcareer?
Head of Unit Cooperation Planning
#Naval Systems Technology
Ammunition Technology
#UAS Programmes
#ICT Solutions Architect
Head of #Finance Unit Info?
http://eda.europa.eu/careers
30 Nov & 31 Dec

Want to work on European arms production? Or on a cleaner, more secure, and just world for all?

***
Israel Aerospace Industries #IAI has signed an agreement with Romanian defence company IAR-Brasov. It enables the two to offer Romania drone technology based on IAI’s Tactical Heron. The drones will be manufactured in Brasov, Romania. https://www.iai.co.il/cooperation-on-uavs-with-romanian-defense-company-iar-brasov

***
De NIDV Exhibition Defence and Security #NEDS2021, staat in het teken van Klimaat & Krijgsmacht. https://nidvexhibition.eu/thema/ Op de door SAAB en Damen gesponsorde beurs wordt de krijgsmacht aanbevolen te stoppen met gebruik fossiele brandstoffen, niet meer varen, vliegen en rijden.

Zou een dergelijke berekening al voor Nederland bestaan? The UK's military-industrial sector alone annually emits more greenhouse gases than 60 individual countries, such as Uganda, which has a population of 45 million people.
https://declassifieduk.org/exclusive-uk-military-and-arms-companies-produce-more-carbon-emissions-than-60-individual-countries/

***
Turkey's president said on Monday that US President Biden promised to do "his best" to ensure Ankara's request to purchase American F-16 fighter jets went through, but noted there's only a 1 in 2 chance that the US Congress and Senate would approve it. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/biden-will-do-his-best-turkey-f-16-sale-says-erdogan

Not because Turkey has ramped up military activity on the ground in Syria following a parliamentary extension of the government's mandate to carry out cross-border operations.https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2021/10/turkey-eyes-five-new-targets-possible-offensive-syria But because Ankara is buying Russian air defence systems S400.

November 1

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Wendela de Vries explains why of Stop Wapenhandel participated in the tribunal against Airbus accused in the Court for Intergenerational Climate Crimes.



Addition:

But there is much more interesting information, questions and thoughts in this long video. Listen e.g. on 1:06 on how NGO-politics can be part of the neo-liberal agenda (included, the ATT policy developments).

YOUTUBE

***
Russia is warning Turkey over arms sales to Ukraine after a Turkish-made drone attacked Russian-backed rebels in Ukraine.

A Kremlin spokesman has warned that Turkey's ongoing arms sales to Ukraine threaten to destabilize the region.

https://www.voanews.com/a/russia-warns-turkey-after-ukraine-drone-strike/6289071.html

***
President Joe Biden has rolled back tariffs on EU steel and aluminum, while the European Union has lifted its retaliatory levies, ending a bitter dispute being litigated before the World Trade Organization.
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/politics/biden-trump-eu-tariffs-erdogan

***
Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. and Airbus are jointly entering the satellite business to capture the burgeoning private-sector aerospace market. But both are also involved in the military satellite business.
https://www.kedglobal.com/newsView/ked202110310001

***
#German public prosecutor imposes fine of of €10m on Airbus Defense and Space in Bundeswehr case. It is not the first fine imposed on #Airbus. In 2018, a fine of over € 81m was imposed in connection to Eurofighter sales to Austria. #Corruption https://www.welt.de/wirtschaft/article234727782/Airbus-Ruestungssparte-muss-Millionen-Busse-zahlen.html

***
1+1=2 MoD Henk Kamp today in Telegraaf: 1) "There must be 4 billion more". It doesn't seem to stop. 2) 4 Submarines cost about €3½-4 billion + to maintain the entire submarine service. End of story for resting places for stray marine mammals? https://fd.nl/bedrijfsleven/1416986/nederlandse-industrie-hekelt-aanbesteding-onderzeeers-door-defensie