My tweets (or X's) for late August

 Latest on top (updated regularly):
(https://twitter.com/martinbroek)
(Between July 14 and August 19 no tweets were created by me.)

August 31

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When it comes to contributing to the European Defence Fund #EDF, #Spain “punches above its weight,” according to a new Spanish report (https://www.realinstitutoelcano.org/en/analyses/investing-and-innovating-spain-and-the-european-defence-fund/), even outspending Germany, despite Berlin having a military budget more than 3x that of Madrid. https://breakingdefense.com/2023/08/spain-punches-above-its-weight-in-european-defense-fund-investments-report/

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The “One China policy” has kept the peace in the Taiwan strait. The understanding has been strained in recently by statements and actions on both sides. But renewing it in one form or another will do more to prevent war than all the drones in the world. https://www.forbes.com/sites/williamhartung/2023/08/29/can-building-swarms-of-drones-head-off-war-with-china/?sh=2e75e5d6338b

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September 26, Military Emissions Gap Conference 2023--Military and Conflcit GHG Emissions: From Understanding to Mitigation, hosted by Conflict and Environment Observatory and others. https://ceobs.org/conference-military-and-conflict-ghg-emissions-from-understanding-to-mitigation/

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#Damen Digital Solutions, the digital services division of Damen Shipyards Group, and the British Royal #Navy’s innovation programme NavyX will work on the development of new solutions to enhance maritime operations based on the Damen Triton data platform. https://english.defensearabia.com/damen-triton-and-british-royal-navy-announce-collaboration/

August 30

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English Schadenfreude

Berlin and Paris clash over Europe’s next-generation fighter jet. Both countries have differing views on how to fund the project and who the jets should be sold to.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2023/08/30/berlin-paris-clash-europe-next-generation-fighter-jet/

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Remarkably, there is limited research and publicly available information about the connection between #climate change and militarism, but the impact of war and the military #industry on climate change can be observed on various levels. https://nation.cymru/opinion/the-arms-trade-and-the-climate-crisis/

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The arrest of the Egyptian father of a German activist is the latest in an escalating trend of targeting families of outspoken activists to silence dissent, while the world turns a blind eye. Cairo is even still a major destination for German arms exports. https://www.newarab.com/analysis/egypt-relatives-regime-critics-face-state-reprisal

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In 'Kijk eens aan, nu bewapent #Israël Europa' ontkent Robbert de Witt niet dat er talrijke rafelrandjes aan Israël zitten, maar we moeten toch vooral zien dat het land een succes is. 't Bewapent nu al her-en-der Europa, zo slaat hij de juichtoon aan.

Elseviers Weekblad EW 020923

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#Netherlands doubles order of MQ-9 Reaper #drones, plans to #arm them. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/08/29/netherlands-doubles-order-of-mq-9-reaper-drones-plans-to-arm-them/

August 29

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#Hanwha Defense #Australia has awarded #Israeli firm #Epsilor a contract to supply NATO-standard Li-Ion vehicle batteries for its Huntsman self-propelled #howitzers. https://www.thedefensepost.com/2023/08/25/australia-huntsman-howitzer-batteries-epsilor

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Surprising: Dutch maritime technology lobby organisation (NMT) advertises shipbuilding fair Marintec China https://maritimetechnology.nl/nl/agenda/marintec-2023/ the first mentioned suporter is the Equipment Department of PLA [Chinese] Navy. https://www.marintecchina.com/about_the_fair/

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Like in Norway (https://www.europeansanctions.com/2023/07/norway-to-establish-sanctions-and-export-control-agency/) also a separate department for export controls and sanctions will be created in the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (https://www.seco.admin.ch/seco/en/home/seco/nsb-news.msg-id-97397.html).
From 1 September 2023, sanctions, arms control and arms control policy, export controls on industrial products and export control policy dual-use will be separated from the previous area of bilateral economic relations and combined under their own management.

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The DOJ Aug. 24 filed an administrative lawsuit alleging that Elon Musk’s private rocket manufacturer #SpaceX engaged in “routine, widespread, and longstanding” #discrimination by refusing to hire asylees and refugees. The company wrongly stated that it could only hire US citizens and lawful permanent residents because of #export_control_laws limiting access to defence and national security-related technologies, the DOJ said.

https://news.bloomberglaw.com/daily-labor-report/spacex-hiring-case-shows-export-control-immigration-law-clash

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is hitting back at the Justice Department over a lawsuit alleging that the company engaged in employment discrimination against asylum recipients and refugees. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/elon-musk-hits-back-at-doj-over-lawsuit-alleging-hiring-discrimination-by-spacex/ar-AA1fR0Ju

August 28

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The Federal Government gives in its answer (20/8053 https://dserver.bundestag.de/btd/20/080/2008053.pdf) on a small request (20/7954 https://dserver.bundestag.de/btd/20/079/2007954.pdf) from the Die Linke for information on ammunition and armaments exports via the Port of Hamburg in the first quarter of 2023.
https://www.bundestag.de/presse/hib/kurzmeldungen-963564

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Allegations of #corruption at Ruag.

Geheimakte #Ruag Ermittlungen gegen Walliser Manager. Korruptionsvorwürfe beim Rüstungskonzern – internes Papier legt brisante Details offen.

#Leopard tanks, #Ukraine, lax/creative rules, #Swiss, #Germany. https://www.blick.ch/news/internes-papier-legt-brisante-details-offen-geheimakte-ruag-spur-fuehrt-zu-einem-walliser-manager-id18881069.html

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Klimaat is een issue bij #Damen. Het gaat wel eens mis. De Australische #Nuyina van de scheepsbouwer mag niet onder een brug door en moet 100den km's omvaren om te bunkeren. Door de problemen werd ook een poolijsonderzoeksexpeditie afgelast. https://www.schuttevaer.nl/nieuws/actueel/2023/08/25/damens-ijsbreker-nuyina-mag-brug-in-tasmanie-niet-door/

See also Australia’s $528m Antarctic icebreaker too big to fit under Tasman bridge to refuel: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/aug/24/australias-528m-antarctic-icebreaker-too-big-to-fit-under-tasman-bridge-to-refuel

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#UAE Major-General Al-Alawi indicated that #MBDA approached the UAE with offers for an air defense system and AShMs for the Gowind corvettes. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62125

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EDITORIAL in major Japanese daily:

Arms exports rules must not be gutted without full public debate.

"the administration must not be allowed to make this grave decision in the rash manner"
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14989145

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The #UAE's #Edge_Group has expanded its footprint in the #Brazilian military sector by signing cooperation agreements with the Brazilian Air Force’s Department of Aerospace Science and Technology and engine developer Turbomachine. https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/air-warfare/edge-group-deepens-brazil-defence-ties-with-new-technology-agreements/

UAE’s EDGE Group to co-develop defense systems with Brazilian military organization. https://breakingdefense.com/2023/08/uaes-edge-group-to-co-develop-defense-systems-with-brazilian-military-organization/

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#India has lifted a ban on #AgustaWestland and its parent company, Italian firm #Leonardo, allowing them to participate in ongoing projects and upcoming defence contracts. They were banned in 2015 for alleged #corruption in a helicopter supply contract. https://the1014.co.nz/uncategorized/agusta-westland-ban-revoked-law-asia/47859/

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A notorious arms fair in London is to be targeted for two weeks of resistance by protesters.

The annual #DSEI fair is attended by delegates from the world’s most repressive and murderous regimes, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Bahrain, Qatar and Israel.

https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/activists-announce-two-week-action-targeting-notorious-dsei-arms-fair-london

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#South_Korea uses a warship (with exhibition booth) on a training mission (the #Hwacheon) to globally promote exports for its military industry.

The ship will visit the US, #Saudi Arabia, #Egypt, India and #Germany and several other countries. https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2023/08/113_357929.html

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How Europe is shifting its Middle East policy: choosing geopolitical interests over values – OpEd

Includes a number of reasons/interests why European countries have choosen to lower normative standards.

https://www.eurasiareview.com/28082023-how-europe-is-shifting-its-middle-east-policy-choosing-geopolitical-interests-over-values-oped/

August 24

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Dutch government receives parliamentary questions on European arms exports. https://www.asser.nl/about-the-asser-institute/news/dutch-government-receives-parliamentary-questions-on-european-arms-exports/

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UK #Labour conference set to host weapons manufacturers and a controversial #spyware firm. https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/labour-party-conference-greenwashing-weapons-boeing-palantir-babcock/

Arms firms, oil companies and private healthcare among firms sponsoring this autumn's Labour conference

https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/arms-firms-oil-companies-and-private-healthcare-among-firms-sponsoring-autumns-labour

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German critics are linking the Israle-German Arrow deal to Chancellor Olaf Scholz allegedly blocking a statement on the legality of Israeli occupation recently, and pointing to possible ramifications for the Palestinians. https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-08-23/ty-article-magazine/.premium/insanely-complex-germany-israels-arrow-3-system-and-the-occupation/0000018a-224d-da97-a7cb-66ffd86a0000

August 23

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The Israeli government has announced that it will sell the Arrow 3 missile-defence system to Germany, a $3.5 billion deal, marking it as Israel’s largest military export ever. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-says-arrow-3-missile-killer-sale-germany-approved-by-us-2023-08-17/

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Netherlands to double MQ-9A Reaper order to 8 drones

“We are doubling the number ... so we can increase our maritime and overland intelligence, reconnaissance, surveillance (ISR) capacity,” said Lt-Col Ruedisueli, cdt of the Dutch Air Force's 306 Squadron. https://breakingdefense.com/2023/08/netherlands-to-double-mq-9a-order-to-eight-aircraft/

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US TOW anti-tank missiles potentially combined with Bradley armour for Morocco. The latest addition to a significant increase in the firepower of the Morroccan Royal Army (https://ledesk.ma/enoff/des-missiles-antichars-americains-tow-potentiellement-combines-a-des-blindes-bradley-pour-le-maroc/) involved in the illegal occupation of Western Sahara (https://press.un.org/en/2023/gacol3370.doc.htm).

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“Japan’s New Chip Equipment Export Rules Take Effect” Effective 23 July 2023, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (“METI”) imposed export regulations on 23 types of advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment. “General Bulk License (一般包括許可) for the Netherlands, the US, Taiwan, India, & Lithuania. And e.g China requires a “Specific Bulk License (特定包括許可) https://www.engage.hoganlovells.com/knowledgeservices/news/japans-new-chip-equipment-export-rules-take-effect/

August 22

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President Biden is warned, when he isn't friendly to Riyad the Saudi's/SAMI will cooperate with China on killer drones. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62126

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"As a nation we have [the UK has] to stop sitting down to tea with human rights abusing dictatorships, without exceptions. That means imposing sanctions on Saudi Arabia and withdrawing military support, not rolling out the red carpet.”

Retweet with comment @FisherAndrew79: Looking forward to the stern public condemnations from Rishi Sunak and Andrew Bailey any second now ... "the median pay of a FTSE 100 chief executive was £3.91m in 2022, up 16% from £3.38m in 2021" https://bbc.co.uk/news/business-66574218

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Israeli Elbit Systems will supply a multilayered counter-drone system to the Netherlands in a deal worth $55 million, the Israeli firm announced Monday. https://www.defensenews.com/unmanned/2023/08/21/netherlands-buys-counter-drone-defense-from-israels-elbit-systems/

August 21

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#Riyadh is interested in U.S. ground platforms, particularly ones that the Saudi Armed Forces possess, such as the M2 #Bradley vehicle. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62122

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Dutch group #Damen has been compelled to give up management and operational control of the #Mangalia shipyard, #Romania’s largest shipbuilder and the biggest in Damen’s international network. https://www.motorship.com/vessels-and-shipyards/strain-on-damens-romanian-links/1486766.article

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There’s only one way to control AI: nationalization.

True of more strategic products. But control of the economy and improve security is not the priority of the neoliberal political system we live in.

https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/08/20/its-time-to-nationalize-ai-00111862

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Preparing the next war. #China, #US test intelligent-#drone_swarms in race for military #AI dominance.

Beijing and Washington prioritize autonomous vehicles and surveillance, study shows. https://www.wsj.com/world/china/china-u-s-test-intelligent-drone-swarms-in-race-for-military-ai-dominance-db361265

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How many #Dutch F-16s will be delivered to #Ukraine and when they will be made available hasn't been announced.

Government report in Dutch https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2023/08/21/zelensky-krijgt-in-nederland-toezegging-voor-f-16s-en-voortdurende-steun

So the 42 fighters (all Dutch #F16s) mentioned by Ukrainian & UK press isn't communicated by the Dutch government.

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On 2 August, MBDA, leaders of the HYDIS consortium, announced that the European Commission has backed the project framework for research on a hypersonic interceptor, through the #EDF. The consortium contributes to the AQUILA concept for an endo-atmospheric hypersonic interceptor capability that can reach 100km above the surface of the Earth. https://www.army-technology.com/news/quantum-interceptor-technology-showcased-for-missile-defence/

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The question of Saudi Arabia's participation in the #GCAP project (#UK, #Italy, #Japan fighter programme) could be decided this fall, during a meeting of the three partner states in London or during the visit of #Saudi prince MbS to the English capital. https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/air-defense/avion-de-combat-du-futur-le-gcap-anglo-italo-nippon-prend-de-lavance-sur-le-scaf-franco-allemand-1971136

London speeds up negotiations with Riyadh on Typhoon order and sixth generation fighter programme membership. [Paywall] https://www.intelligenceonline.com/international-dealmaking/2023/08/22/london-speeds-up-negotiations-with-riyadh-on-typhoon-order-and-sixth-generation-fighter-programme-membership,110034552-eve

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Biden should rethink the Saudi Arabia-Israel normalization deal.

What does Riyadh (civil nuclear knowledge, advanced weaponry, security guarantee) and Washington (more oil production...), want from the deal? What will be effects on Saudi foreign policy? https://thehill.com/opinion/international/4158677-biden-should-rethink-the-saudi-arabia-israel-normalization-deal/

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The British Armys AS90 turret training system (developed and manufactured by Van #Halteren Technologies #VHT) has recently reached 100,000 simulated firings since its introduction into the UK Armed Forces in 2005. https://www.army-technology.com/news/uk-as90-turret-trainer-hits-100000-firings-milestone/

August 21

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Last year In Europe military budgets increased by 13%, faster than in any other region. That is translating into big business for European military contractors, who have secured a flurry of new contracts for military ware in recent months. The Economist, August 19, 2023

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German businesses knows very well how important Hungarian factories, skilled workers and engineers are to the global success of German vehicle production and the military industry, PM Orban said at the inauguration of Rheinmetall Hungary's plant in Zalaegerszeg on August 18.

Moreover on the military cooperation between Berlin and Budapest: the Airbus factory in Gyula manufacturing parts for combat helicopters started operating a year ago, Orban said. https://www.budapesttimes.hu/hungary/orban-hungary-germany-natural-allies-on-competitiveness/

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The German arms company Rheinmetall wants to start servicing tanks in Ukraine in the coming days. "We will start the service this month," said Armin Papperger, CEO of the "Frankfurter Allgemeine Sunday newspaper" https://www.indonewyork.com/business/russian-war-of-aggression-rheinmetall-begins-servicing-tanks-directly-h93873.html

My tweets for July 2023

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

 

July 24

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A delegation of Belgium’s #Wallonia region has visited #Serbia to verify arms exports based on permits issued by regional authorities to arms maker Lachaussee, the Serbian Ministry of Defence said on Thursday. https://www.britic.co.uk/?p=1362816

July 23

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How the arms industry wins whether Ukraine wins or loses. In reality, the EU's Act in Support of Ammunition Production has little, if anything, to do with supporting Ukraine, and everything to do with guaranteeing the profit-driven interests of Europe's highly-lucrative arms industry. https://euobserver.com/opinion/157279

July 16

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French thought reaches a new height. German arms export controles limit the prospects for a German armaments sector. Wow! That is serious for Paris because Germany and France are cooperating on several arms systems. https://en.topwar.ru/221520-germanija-neset-ugrozu-dlja-jeksporta-oruzhija-vo-francuzskoj-presse-zadumalis-o-prodazhah-perspektivnogo-istrebitelja-ngf.html

So why not end all arms control?

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The UK is a weaponry ‘Amazon’ for Ukraine and a Supermarket Sweep for dictators. https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2023/07/13/the-uk-is-a-weaponry-amazon-for-ukraine-and-a-supermarket-sweep-for-dictators/

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MEPs (the pariliamentarians in Brussels) approve plans to provide more ammunition for Ukraine. https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20230711IPR02613/meps-approve-plans-to-provide-more-ammunition-for-ukraine

A policy which is considered left and green; the Times They Are A-Changin'

***
Waar een klein land zich groots in kan voelen:

Denmark and the Netherlands heading coalition of 11 nations responsible for training pilots and ground personnel

https://dsm.forecastinternational.com/wordpress/2023/07/14/ukraine-f-16-pilot-training-to-commence-in-denmark-in-august/

July 15

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Things may look rosy for NATO today, but climate breakdown, not wars, are the biggest threat to global security. https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/nato-vilnius-summit-ukraine-membership-climate-breakdown/ Sttttt those with euro's or dollar in their pockets don't want to know. They want to continue or at best kick a can down a the road.

Two Q&As are missing in: Scientists are freaking out about surging #temperatures. Why aren’t politicians?

1) Why are sitting politicans refusing to take facts seriously?
2) What's the strategy to replace them asap with responsible ones? #ClimateCrisis

https://www.politico.eu/article/eu-scientists-freaking-out-about-surging-temperatures-heat-record-climate-change/

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Serbia suspended all arms exports for 30 days, the defense minister said Friday, just days after the US imposed sanctions on the Balkan country’s intelligence chief, Aleksandar Vulin, over alleged illegal arms deals and other criminal activities. https://apnews.com/article/serbia-suspends-export-weapons-us-sanctions-kosovo-ba744a5fc27d2362dfe065c9156705b8

July 12

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Egyptian Minister of Defense and Military Production Mohammad Zaki held on 19/6/2023 a meeting with the Chairman of the European Union Military Committee #EUMC General Robert Brieger.

The meeting focused on naval cooperation between #Egypt and the #EU. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62017

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Factsheet: Human Rights Conditions on U.S. Military Aid to #Egypt Under the Biden Administration. https://pomed.org/publication/human-rights-conditions-on-u-s-military-aid-to-egypt-under-the-biden-administration/

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A crystal clear worded opinion on why delivering #F16's to #Ukraine is not advisable from a tactical viewpoint.

By US Air Force Col. Maximilian Bremer and Kelly Grieco (a senior fellow with the Reimagining US Grand Strategy Program at the Stimson Center). https://www.defensenews.com/opinion/2023/07/12/ukraines-push-for-f-16s-risks-a-battlefield-advantage-simplicity/

***
#Germany loosens arms exports to #Saudi Arabia, but continues #blocking #Eurofighter jets.

Berlin will allow weapon sales to Saudi Arabia in 'specific individual cases' but they cannot be used in Yemen.

https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/germany-loosens-arms-exports-saudi-arabia-continues-blocking-eurofighter-jets

July 11

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Nordic defense firms are buying each other up as they vie for a greater share of potential contracts that could come with increased #cybersecurity funding among the region’s armed forces. https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2023/07/04/nordic-firms-ride-wave-of-cyber-ma-activity/

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How many failures of US arms export policies combined with military interventions are needed before controls are taken seriously?

How Taliban Turned Arms Dealers For Terrorists; Fancy NATO Weapons Replace Kalashnikovs.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/videos/shows/how-taliban-turned-arms-dealers-for-terrorists-fancy-nato-weapons-replace-kalashnikovs-101689091093992.html

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US export #controls problematised in case of strategic tech cooperation with #India.

“Modi’s US Technology Transfer Deals May Stumble On US Export Controls”. Can India succeed in getting the critical techn from the US when Australia and the UK have failed?

https://thewire.in/security/modi-tech-transfer-deals-may-stumble-on-export-controls

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To date, replenishing of stocks of weapons dispatched to the Ukraine has largely centered on missiles including the Anti Tank NLAW.

BAE said 11/7 it was already expanding munition capabilities in the UK to increase domestic capabilities in the sector.

https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2023/07/11/bae-systems-wins-order-for-munitions-as-uk-rebuilds-stocks/

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Are Dutch PzH2000s delivered to Ukraine used to fire US https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/07/10/why-biden-is-giving-ukraine-cluster-bomb-weapons/8eac1352-1f50-11ee-8994-4b2d0b694a34_story.html & Turkish deliverd (https://foreignpolicy.com/2023/01/10/turkey-cold-war-cluster-bombs-ukraine/ cluster #DPICM ammo? They are fitted to do. https://www.steelbeasts.com/sbwiki/index.php?title=PzH_2000

(The M483A1 was once produced in the Netherlands, deliverd to Turkey and used against Kurds in Turkey.)

***
Andrew it does not even need expertise to come to this conclusion. The main reports are easy to find on the internet and the broad campaign against these fragmentation ammunitions became well informed during the many years the campaign ran.

For those not aware: read and absorb.

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See - but verify (https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2023/june/see-verify) is on the power of #AI to generate #desinformation. The article states this word comes from the Russian #Dezinformatsiya. But the word was already part of American English in the 19th century as wiki (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disinformation) documents.

***
The price of confrontation policies instead of aiming for control.

Concerns about China are driving a projected surge in US military spending over the next 4 years, both conventional and nuclear, according to a recent report by investment bank TD Cowen.

https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/budget-policy-operations/china-biggest-driver-us-defense-spending-surge-td-cowen

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Retweet met comment @arjenvanderziel: Frankrijk gaat #Scalp-raketten leveren aan #Oekraïne. De Oekraïners kunnen daarmee Russische doelen diep in bezet gebied raken. Parijs volgt hiermee Londen dat dezelfde raketten al levert onder de Britse naam #StormShadow. De raketten worden gemaakt door 't Europese bedrijf #MBDA https://twitter.com/arjenvanderziel/status/1678724284871573505

MBDA B.V.

Rotterdam

Coolsingel 61 7th floor (r

Hoofdvestiging

KVK 33285376

Nederland gering belastingland.

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Germany is threatened with a shortage of hardened steel used to make parts of tanks. That's why #KDNS bought a 200-year-old steel foundry to ensure supply to make parts Leopard 2 tanks and other armored vehicles currently deployed on Ukrainian battlefields.https://www.wsj.com/articles/facing-a-battle-for-armored-steel-this-tank-maker-bought-the-factory-dfb8839a

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#Lockheed expands relations in murderous dictatorship. Representatives of the #Saudi Arabian Defence Electronic Company #SADEC are said to be currently in talks with Lockheed Martin for the acquisition of a sonar system & the transfer of technology (ToT). https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62013

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Uhm, beause it runs smoothly? #WhiteHouse said it opposes a provision in the House’s annual defence policy bill that would create a special #inspector general for #Ukraine aid, modelled after the Special Inspector General for #Afghanistan Reconstruction. https://www.defensenews.com/congress/2023/07/10/white-house-wants-ukraine-inspector-general-out-of-defense-bill/

But battle lost, the House’s $874bn National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal 2024, would establish a special inspector general for Ukraine aid. https://www.c4isrnet.com/congress/budget/2023/06/22/house-defense-bill-adds-special-ukraine-ig-taiwan-cyber-cooperation/

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What a Negotiated Settlement to the Ukraine War Could Look Like? Author gives 3 main parts. Guarantees:

- Ukraine on souvereignity and security.
- Russia's security concerns should be respected.
- Russians of the Donbas must be guaranteed protection. https://original.antiwar.com/Ted_Snider/2023/07/09/what-a-negotiated-settlement-to-the-ukraine-war-could-look-like/

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Natural allies?

#Morocco is set to receive an unspecified number of Merkava tanks from #Israel as part of the African nation’s efforts to bolster its military firepower.

Come in handy in the #Western_Sahara? https://www.elespanol.com/omicrono/defensa-y-espacio/20230705/merkava-nuevos-tanques-marruecos-pueden-destruir-blindados-km-distancia/774922547_0.html

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Nordic tech companies could enlarge their share of the world’s quantum computing pie. Sweden & Finland each aim to advance their capabilities using the disruptive technology. Saab is an “industrial partner” to the Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology .https://www.defensenews.com/industry/techwatch/2023/07/07/sweden-finland-eye-quantum-tech-leap-amid-call-for-official-strategy/

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"Military actions in #Ukraine have the potential to spread beyond Ukrainian territory and the option of using weapons of mass destruction cannot be completely ruled out". This is according to a report of the Bulgarian "National Security" agency #SANS. https://www.novinite.com/articles/220797/Bulgaria%E2%80%99s+National+Security+Agency%3A+Military+Actions+in+Ukraine+may+also+Spread+into+other+Countries

***
Sweden no accepted by Erdogan as NATO member. The costs: "Sweden has amended its constitution, changed its laws ... and resumed arms exports to Turkey." https://uk.news.yahoo.com/turkish-president-backs-swedens-entry-204100404.html

Amnesty International on Turkey: https://www.amnesty.org/en/location/europe-and-central-asia/turkey/report-turkey/

Despite the question in the title (What are the terms under which Turkey’s Erdogan agreed...?) it seems a one way deal. It provides Turkey presents in exchange for NATO-membership.

Stockholm as strong backer of an autocratic and violent regime. https://english.alarabiya.net/News/world/2023/07/11/What-are-the-terms-under-which-Turkey-s-Erdogan-agreed-to-back-Sweden-s-NATO-bid-

July 9

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Not rocket science, but this story and these facts must be told to the public:
UK ‘wastes billions’ on defence firms that give investors rich returns

Study claims taxpayer is subsidising up to 90% of weapons companies’ research and development budgets.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/09/uk-wastes-billions-defence-firms-investors-taxpayer-weapons

***
So, the cluster munitions are not being sent because they are perceived as effective but because they're all that's left of the shelf? Is the entire West's arms production capacity that limited? https://twitter.com/AliR_Ahmadi/status/1677411248953077760

Biden to CNN on cluster munitions: "It was a very difficult decision on my part. And by the way, I discussed this with our allies, I discussed this with our friends up on the Hill...The Ukrainians are running out of ammunition." https://cnn.com/2023/07/07/politics/joe-biden-cluster-munitions-ukraine/index.html

+ This tweet by Ali Ahmadi on the issue of cluster ammo on the annoucement of what was already delivered. https://twitter.com/Kathleen_Tyson_/status/1677655247370452994

July 8

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Half of #Germany’s whopping $109 billion military modernization fund could be heading straight into the pockets of #American military contractors. The CEO of German tank-parts manufacturer Renk Group paints a rather grim picture of the home-grown industry. https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2023/07/06/f-35-stomps-european-competitors-german-industry-stagnates/

***
New #Germany-based F-35 fuselage factory will allow #Lockheed to boost #production. The #Weeze-based factory will replace a factory previously operated by Turkey. https://www.defenseone.com/business/2023/07/new-germany-based-f-35-fuselage-factory-will-allow-lockheed-boost-production/388210/

***
https://www.defensenews.com/global/the-americas/2023/07/07/us-to-destroy-its-last-chemical-weapons/

Want to read more on the peculiar relationship of the US to #chemical weponstocks, read Six stops on the national security tour by Miriam Pemberton with a chapter dedicated to the Pine Bluff Arsenal https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2022/11/boekbespreking-de-economie-van-de.html

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#UAE’s military conglomerate EDGE Group has taken over Abu Dhabi-based #Oryxlabs, in its 1st-ever acquisition in the #cybersecurity realm. The move is to focus on unconventional tech & boost the UAE’s capabilities for regional and international exports. https://breakingdefense.com/2023/07/edge-group-acquires-oryxlabs-marking-first-move-into-cybersecurity/

***
NATO sec. gen. refuses to oppose #cluster munitions to #Ukraine. The errosion of norms and standards is part of the military support. This is just one of them.

Russia is using them as part of agression.
Ukraine as part of defence the argument goes.

https://breakingdefense.com/2023/07/will-us-cluster-munition-decision-meet-pushback-at-nato-summit/

US transfer of cluster munitions to Ukraine undermines international efforts to safeguard civilians from indiscriminate weapons. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2023/07/ukraine-us-plan-to-transfer-cluster-munitions-to-ukraine-undermines-international-efforts-to-safeguard-civilians-from-indiscriminate-weapons/

***
#Damen has signed an agreement with Dutch #RH_Marine to deliver management capabilities for the Netherlands and Belgium’s upcoming Anti-Submarine Warfare frigates each will receive RH Marine’s Mission Management, Navigation & Platform Management system. https://www.thedefensepost.com/2023/07/06/netherland-belgium-frigate-management-system/

July 6

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#China cancels planned trip by EU's foreign policy chief @JosepBorrellF; gives no reason. Guess what.

Is not that difficult, isn 't it? Seen what happened in past few months on the policies concerning "economic competitor and a systemic rival".

https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china-cancels-planned-trip-by-eus-foreign-policy-chief-gives-no-reason-101688472980157.html

***
The West Again Learns That #War Needs Industry

Biden and NATO leaders, fearing a war of attrition with Russia or China, will focus on rebuilding militaries and their supplies at coming summit.

https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-west-again-learns-that-war-needs-industry-33c8ca88

If you want war prepare for war.
If you want peace ...

***
Arme boeren, natuur & burgers.

Defensie heeft meer fysieke & #milieuruimte nodig voor gezamenlijke internationale oefeningen en militaire vervoer. Zij wel. https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2023/07/05/defensie-heeft-meer-fysieke-en-milieuruimte-nodig

En dan hebben ze het niet eens over brullende voertuigen en grommende F-35s.

Argument: #Oekraïne.

***
Submarine proliferation in the Persian Gulf and Red Sea. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/61542-saudi-arabia-conditions-set-and-offers-received-for-submarines-tot Who are planning to deteriorate security in the MENA region? Offers are presented by France, Italy, Spain, and Turkey. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62003

JADC2 provides now and in the future: “an approach for developing the warfighting capability to sense, make sense, and act at all levels and phases of war, across all domains, and with partners, to deliver information advantage at the speed of relevance.” https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2023/june/navy-information-warfare-needs-requirements-officers

***
he #UAE is in talks with the US and #European military companies concerning Joint All Domain Command and Control #JADC2 and #C4ISR systems. (Paywall: Report includes European companies involved.) https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62002

***
Chinese military holds strategy talks with UK, France in first since Ukraine war to boost ‘understanding and trust’. #China and the two militaries must restore people-to-people exchanges after the pandemic, says Chinese security analyst. https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3226626/chinese-military-holds-strategy-talks-uk-france-first-ukraine-war-boost-understanding-and-trust

***
Open letter to @MEPs by @ENAAT on on EU funding for ammunition and missiles.

ENAAT alerts MEPs: The #ASAP regulation is turning into a subsidy for the proliferation of #munitions and #missiles around the world.

English: https://enaat.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230103_ASAP_ENAAT_OL-to-MEPs_03.07.2023_EN.pdf

French: https://enaat.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230103_ASAP_ENAAT_OL-to-MEPs_03.07.2023_FR.pdf

***
US President Biden has so often reiterated a narrative that positions ‘democracy vs autocracy’ as the defining struggle of our time that this is framed as core to the #Biden_doctrine. However, a string of observers have voiced #concern. https://sipri.org/commentary/blog/2023/arming-autocracies-arms-transfers-and-emerging-biden-doctrine

But Italy = worst.

***
The Pentagon finds itself with a sort of headache: how to stop weapons and systems that are dirt cheap.

The growing problem of inexpensive unmanned systems employing autonomy and #AI has been a longtime subject of military study and discussion.

https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2023/07/05/us-military-calls-for-better-weapons-to-fight-artificial-intelligence/

July 5

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Kampfjets für Saudi-Arabien Grüne fordern Stopp der geplanten Rüstungsexporte Fighter jets for Saudi Arabia; Greens demand a halt to the exports Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, July 5 2023

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#Pakistan government has requested a nearly 16% increase to its military #budget, despite a standoff with the #IMF over economic stagflation. The government unveiled a request for $6.267bn for fiscal 2023-24. https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pakistan-unveils-51-billion-budget-with-half-to-service-debt-602703

***
#Rafale and #France advance In India while US and Russia lag behind Rafale and France advance in #India while US and Russia lag behind. https://www.indiandefensenews.in/2023/07/rafale-and-france-advance-in-india.html

***
Opvoeren Koude Oorlog tussen NAVO+ en China verergert ook de grootste globale crisis: #klimaatverandering.

Blijkbaar wordt het concept veiligheid wat beperkt opgevat door Jens 'Wacht-op-Rutte' Stoltenberg en zijn vrienden. https://www.standaard.be/cnt/dmf20230704_95476188

***
An inquiry has been told that 80 Afghan civilians may 've been victims of summary executions by 3 separate SAS units operating in Afghanistan between 2010 - 13, & that evidence of these murders was allegedly destroyed in a war crimes coverup by SAS chiefs. https://aoav.org.uk/2023/inquiry-considers-allegations-of-80-unlawful-civilian-killings-and-cover-up-by-uks-sas-in-afghanistan/

***
In #Amsterdam kwam de Joint Expeditionary Force #JEF samen, een militair samenwerkingsverband van 10 N-Europese landen o.l.v. het VK. Het richt zich primair op hybride oorlogsvoering, zoals het verspreiden van #desinformatie of de inzet van cyberaanvallen. https://maritiemland.nl/nieuws/betere-bescherming-van-internetkabels-op-zee/

***
#Myanmar's domestic weapons industry produces five types of #antipersonnel land mines and has benefited from USD 1 billion worth of arms trade with foreign suppliers under the military regime. They are used to protect #Chinese assetys in the country.

https://www.aninews.in/news/world/asia/myanmar-landmine-exacts-growing-toll-on-citizens-as-military-rings-chinese-assets20230705025121/

July 4

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Singapore acknowledges 138 Singapore-based entities involved in Myanmar’s military junta supply chain amid international probe. They are engaged in the transfer spare parts for fighter aircraft, Naval equipment, and equipment for electronic warfare. https://www.theonlinecitizen.com/2023/07/04/singapore-acknowledges-138-singapore-based-entities-involved-in-myanmars-military-junta-supply-chain-amid-international-probe/

***
South Africa has not approved any arms sales to Russia since 2020, minister says. https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/south-africa-has-not-approved-arms-sales-to-russia-since-2020-c9180280-1b4d-4493-9b88-aec01139e6bc Reassuring in the Lady R case (late 2022), but when was the Crim annexed?

***
Airbus Defense and Space  is to test intelligent swarms of drones on behalf of the German Armed Forces . Two start-ups (Quantum Systems & Spleenlab) are to help. The Bundeswehr needs artificial intelligence (AI) for this. https://www.handelsblatt.com/technik/it-internet/kuenstliche-intelligenz-bundeswehr-airbus-erprobt-mit-start-ups-intelligente-drohnenschwaerme/29235616.html

***
#Damen will design and partly build the four wew anti-submarine #frigates for the Netherlands and Belgium in ... #Romania.

Wonder how the #Buy_Dutch_parliamentarians will react. https://www.romaniajournal.ro/society-people/damen-will-design-and-partially-build-in-romania-the-4-new-anti-submarine-frigates-for-the-netherlands-and-belgium/

In English: Damen's Romanian subsidiary to partly build hulls for four frigates https://www.romania-insider.com/romania-damen-hulls-asw-frigates-2023

***
Japan is one of the most significant countries in East Asia and a ally of the US in the Indo-Pacific region. With the changing global scenario and new realities of the Russia-Ukraine war, there has been a greater strategic alignment between #NATO & #Japan. https://www.eurasiareview.com/03072023-japans-deepening-ties-with-nato-a-shift-in-strategic-objectives-in-the-indo-pacific-oped/

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Cold War? #China curbs critical metal #gallium #germanium exports in retaliation for Western restrictions on chip industry.

The rules come just after the #Netherlands announces new measures to limit China’s access to advanced chip manufacturing equipment.

https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3226430/china-curbs-critical-metal-exports-retaliation-western-restrictions-chip-industry

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#Dutch companies that produce machines that make advanced #semiconductor processor chips will be required to have export licenses before they can sell them overseas starting in September, the government announced Friday. https://government.nl/latest/news/2023/06/30/government-publishes-additional-export-measures-for-advanced-semiconductor-manufacturing-equipment

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When you think you've seen the most polluting, the weirdest ... The Defense Innovation Unit #DIU is seeking pitches from commercial #space companies to provide “novel” launch capabilities for delivering #cargo around the globe, into space and within space. https://www.c4isrnet.com/battlefield-tech/space/2023/07/03/defense-innovation-unit-seeks-proposals-to-ship-cargo-using-rockets/

July 3

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1/2 #F35 fighter jet #noise #Opposition to the reopening of the dormant De Peel airbase is increasing. Entrepreneurs in the horse world in East Brabant and Limburg fear that their companies and their horses will suffer seriously from the noise of the F-35 fighter jets.

2/2 Several entrepreneurs in the Limburg horse world have now joined forces. They have their first meeting tomorrow in the village of Kronenberg. Nearly 200 people have already registered for the meeting.
https://www.ed.nl/gemert-bakel/ook-paardenwereld-verzet-zich-tegen-heropening-vliegbasis-de-peel~abf1792d/

***
#Dutch against the #Swiss. The Hague wants to put pressure on Switzerland. Not only the Netherlands that should stop buying Swiss weapons and ammunition. They also call on other European countries to increase their pressure on Bern, guilty of #neutrality. https://www.blick.ch/politik/nach-panzer-absage-macht-der-westen-richtig-druck-niederlaender-wollen-keine-schweizer-waffen-mehr-id18712887.html

***
US Republicans loose achorage to even a tiny bit of civilisation and embark on extreme policies.

Republican politicians are expressing their bloodlust in public. As "Build the #Wall" loses its edge, "Bomb the #Mexicans" is becoming mainstream in the GOP. https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2023-06-30/gop-conservatives-republicans-desantis-trump-mexico-fentanyl

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A UN human rights expert said Wednesday (June 28) that a specialized international force is needed to help fight gang violence in #Haiti and that a weapons embargo should be implemented immediately. https://www.voanews.com/a/arms-embargo-special-force-needed-in-haiti-un-rights-expert-says-/7159606.html

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France offers to co-develop engine for combat jets. Ahead of #Indian PM Modi's visit to Paris, #France made an offer many steps ahead of the path-breaking GE-414 #engine deal with the US, people familiar with the matter said on Saturday. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-drdo-frances-safran-jointly-manufacture-certify-engine-amca-combat-aircraft-emmanuel-macron-101688259382106.html

***
#Israel is already #weaponizing #AI — but not in the ways it claims to be.

Israel claims to be a leader in AI tech, but its main innovations are lax industry ethics and widespread surveillance. https://truthout.org/articles/israel-is-already-weaponizing-ai-but-not-in-the-ways-it-claims-to-be/

***
Britain’s hopes of reviving a lucrative but long-stalled agreement to export dozens of fighter jets to Saudi Arabia have been stirred by signals that Germany could drop its veto against the sale. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/germany-may-end-veto-on-uk-deal-to-sell-typhoons-to-saudi-arabia-cxtq8grgm

Ampel-Koalition droht Streit über neue Kampfjets für Saudi-Arabien

Dispute in German coalition on sale of fighters to Saudi's. Critisism from Geens, but also in SPD. https://www.welt.de/politik/deutschland/article246144724/Ruestungsexporte-Ampel-Koalition-droht-Streit-ueber-Eurofighter-fuer-Saudi-Arabien.html

July 2

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#Germany’s National Security Strategy previews change in arms-export policy. Will it be as tight as prommised? The fact that India was seen as 'third country' but became one of Pistorius's first visits shows how quickly politics can change. https://www.iiss.org/online-analysis/military-balance/2023/06/germanys-national-security-strategy-previews-change-in-arms-export-policy/

***
#Disinformation, a key instrument of  #India’s foreign policy in relation to #China and Pakistan?  https://countercurrents.org/2023/07/disinformation-a-key-instrument-of-indias-foreign-policy-in-relation-to-china-and-pakistan/

Second of a two Part article on India’s media relations with China.

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#Pentagon lacks ‘comprehensive’ strategy for buying AI tech, #GAO warns.

GAO advices AI acquisition strategy and that the military services should also develop their own guidance to help navigate the #AI acquisition process. https://breakingdefense.com/2023/06/pentagon-lacks-comprehensive-strategy-for-buying-ai-tech-gao-warns/

GAO: https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-23-105850

***
Norms to the dump?

White House weighing controversial #cluster munitions deliveries to #Ukraine

“We will [...] continue to work with allies and partners to identify and provide Ukraine with additional capabilities,” said a US State Department spokesperson.

https://breakingdefense.com/2023/06/white-house-weighing-controversial-cluster-munitions-deliveries-to-ukraine/