Latest
on top (updated regularly):
(https://twitter.com/martinbroek)
September 30
***
Will Sweden's
ascension to NATO lead to heavy military exports to the Turkey of
Erdogan? The Senate Foreign Relations Committee's new chairman said
(28-9) he would look at Turkey's $20 bn Lockheed F-16 deal and the
possibility to lift his predecessor's (Senator Bob Menendez)
longstanding hold.
https://www.reuters.com/world/new-us-senate-foreign-relations-chair-will-look-turkish-f-16-deal-2023-09-28/
See also:
https://www.euractiv.com/section/defence-and-security/news/new-us-senate-foreign-relations-chair-will-look-at-turkish-f-16-deal/
***
Push against
Japanese military export #constraints, here in The Diplomat.
Japan’s Defense Industry Is Hindered by Self-Imposed Constraints. Nearly a decade ago #Japan widened the scope for #arms exports, but there is little to show for the policy change.
https://thediplomat.com/2023/09/japans-defense-industry-is-hindered-by-self-imposed-constraints/
***
While Talking Peace, UAE
Fuels Sudan Fight
From a remote air base in Chad, the Emirates is giving arms and medical treatment to fighters on one side in Sudan's worsening war, officials say.
Emirati cargo planes began to stream into Amdjarass, a tiny oasis town with few inhabitants but an unusually long airstrip.Many of the cargo planes landing at Amdjarass had previously transported weapons for the Emirates to other conflict zones. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/29/world/africa/sudan-war-united-arab-emirates-chad.html
***
ADF retires
#Airbus #helicopters early after years of issues and deadly crash
The grounded fleet of #Australian Defence Force MRH-90 #Taipan helicopters will be immediately scrapped from -service, 14 years ahead of initial schedule.
***
EU aims to
put its military industry on to a war footing. Joint procurement of
weapons has been introduced for the 1st time.
No turning back possible? Nonsense! But it will become more difficult and will confront entrenched interests of the arms industry. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/sep/30/ukraine-russia-war-changed-eu
***
One of the
newcomers at the Belgrade Partner 23 defense fair was Taharqa
Technologies, a #Kazakhstan-based company that has purposely kept a
low profile over the last year while developing a new explosive
#drone for the country’s armed forces. #Turkey
https://www.c4isrnet.com/unmanned/2023/09/28/kazakh-startup-pushes-into-local-market-for-explosive-drones/
***
In July 2023,
the #Turkish & #UAE presidents signed a series of defence deals &
MoUs estimated at $50 bn. They included licence production for
drones, short-range air defenses, cooperation on the KAAN 5th gen.
fighter, cyberdefence, & electronic warfare.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/in-depth/62213
***
Students
seize Arts Tower to protest Sheffield University links with arms
manufacturers.
Data reveals the institution has received more investment from weapons manufacturers than any other university in the UK.
***
Wapens en
militarisering van het buitenlands beleid.
Deze tekst sprak Wendela de Vries uit op een vredesweek-bijeenkomst in Vlaardingen.
https://www.globalinfo.nl/achtergrond/wapens-en-militarisering-van-het-buitenlands-beleid/
September
29
***
#Saudi Arabia is
interested in developing domestic production capabilities for
Multiple Launch Rocket System #MLRS launcher platforms.
For
this aim #Raytheon (RTX) is said to be aiming to establish a
strategic partnership with Saudi military industries.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62211
***
“The
F-35’s growing presence across Europe is a powerful example of
alliance-based deterrence and is setting the foundation for NATO and
allied nation’s next-generation air power capability,” Lockheed
said in a statement. Especially the USA part of it.
https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/czech-government-green-lights-controversial-f-35-purchase
***
During
his visit to Kyiv, #French Armed Forces Minister Lecornu and
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed further supplies of
French #arms to #Ukraine and potential joint weapon manufacturing
ventures, Zelenskyy’s office said on Sept. 28.
https://english.nv.ua/nation/zelenskyy-discusses-joint-arms-production-with-french-defense-minister-ukraine-war-news-50356991.html
***
Krijgsmacht
olieslurpers, #DPO. Tussen Lopikerkapel en Best wordt maar liefst 67
kilometer aan pijpleiding vervangen. Defensie pompt hier 24/7
duizenden liters kerosine doorheen naar militaire vliegbases,
Schiphol en opslagpunten in binnen- en buitenland.
https://magazines.defensie.nl/defensiekrant/2023/37/01_pijpleidingen-vervangen_37
***
#Israel's
$3.5-billion sale of its #Arrow 3 missile defence system to #Germany,
sparked by security fears after Russia's Ukraine invasion, is the
biggest yet for the small country's outsized arms sector.
https://www.barrons.com/news/3-5-bn-germany-deal-the-biggest-yet-for-israeli-arms-sector-3ae4f54b
***
New F-127
ferigates for the German navy, Thyssenkrupp #TKMS was joined by
another company that would like to build them at the Marineworkshop
in Linstow: Dutch #Damen - the shipping company that is currently
producing the F126 for the #German Navy.
https://www.tagesschau.de/inland/regional/mecklenburgvorpommern/ndr-marine-werft-in-wismar-will-milliardenprojekt-an-land-ziehen-100.html
***
Mijn korte
bespreking van 'De gelaagde oorlog in Oekraïne' door Guido van
Leemput.
https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2023/09/de-gelaagde-oorlog-in-oekraine-en-de.html
De uitgave is op het internet te vinden (https://soc21.nl/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/De-gelaagde-oorlog-web.pdf) of te koop voor €20,- (incl. €25,-) bij de uitgeverij SOC21 (https://soc21.nl/alle-publicaties/de-gelaagde-oorlog-in-oekraine-en-de-botsing-van-grootmachten-guido-van-leemput/).
***
UAE President
Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ) is looking to expand
strategic defense relations with France in several fields, included
AI. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62208
***
US Special
Ops Command has issued a call for a new class of Air-launched Loiter
Munitions #ALMs to arm its fixed-wing aircraft. #SOF
https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/missile-defense-weapons/special-forces-want-equip-aircraft-loiter-munitions
Wiki: Loitering munition (also known as a suicide drone, #kamikaze drone, or exploding drone). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loitering_munition
***
Swiss
parliament approves resale of Leopard 2 tanks to Germany. German
Ministers of Economy & Defence provided assurances to neutral
#Switzerland that the tanks wouldn't be transferred to Kyiv, thereby
addressing concerns related to international security.
https://menafn.com/1107150685/Swiss-parliament-approves-resale-of-leopard-2-tanks-to-Germany
***
Thompson
Hine: “U.S., UK and EU Announce Updated List of Controlled
‘High-Priority’ Items Restricted for Export to Russia” [Some
text with Audio podcast]
https://mondoweiss.net/2023/09/antony-loewenstein-on-how-israel-exports-weapons-and-surveillance-around-the-world/
***
Thompson
Hine: “U.S., UK and EU Announce Updated List of Controlled
‘High-Priority’ Items Restricted for Export to Russia”
https://www.thompsonhinesmartrade.com/2023/09/u-s-uk-and-eu-announce-updated-list-of-controlled-high-priority-items-restricted-for-export-to-russia/
***
The UAE considers to
introduce export licenses for a no. of items incl. chips and other
parts sanctioned by the US & EU and used by Russia's military in
Ukraine. If implemented, licenses could be withheld for dual-use
goods used in the battlefield, potentially hurting the
Kremlin's ability to "feed its war machine," the report
added.
***
#Dutch #Damen
has awarded #Spakenburg-based Heinen & Hopman a contract to
supply the climate & filtration systems as well as a chemical,
biological, radiological & nuclear #CBRN filtration system for 4
ASW frigates on order for the Dutch & #Belgian navies.
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/heinen-hopman-to-supply-hvac-r-and-cbrn-filter-systems-for-dutchbelgian-asw-frigates
***
Turkey deputy
minister of foreign affairs says Ankara still wants Canada to drop
its arms embargo. Canada halted new export permits to Turkey in
October 2019 after its military incursion into Syria, and renewed the
embargo in 2020 citing evidence Canadian drones sent to ...
Turkey
ended up being used by Azerbaijan.
Ottawa might lift its arms embargo if
Ankara supports Sweden's bid to join NATO, and if it agrees to
restrictions on where Canadian drones can be used.
https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/turkiye-senior-diplomat-disappointed-by-canada-s-ongoing-arms-export-embargo-1.6579760
To make it a bit more complicated Ankara will support Sweden's bid when the US provides it with F-16's. https://www.reuters.com/world/turkey-will-back-swedens-nato-bid-if-us-keeps-promise-f-16-sale-erdogan-2023-09-26/
***
In the main
hall of the Belgrade Partner 23 Arms Fair, an unusual display of
drone technologies captured the attention of visitors. Swarm of
loitering munitions (killer #drones) made by #Serbian PR-DC draws
attention. #Saudi Arabia may be a first customer.
https://www.c4isrnet.com/unmanned/2023/09/26/swarm-of-loitering-munitions-draws-attention-at-serbian-defense-show/
***
The notorious
firm #Palantir wins $250 million US Army #AI research contract to
research and experiment with artificial intelligence and machine
learning.
https://www.c4isrnet.com/artificial-intelligence/2023/09/27/palantir-wins-250-million-us-army-ai-research-contract/
***
A #Japanese
official will be the first chief of a joint project with #Britain and
#Italy to develop a next-generation #fighter jet, according to
Japanese government sources.
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15015408
***
#Dutch
shipbuilding group Damen is pitching its Enforcer #amphibious ship
family as the basis for a potential joint #UK/Netherlands amphibious
ship acquisition.
https://www.7-star.net/bbs/board.php?bo_table=news_global&wr_id=51364
***
According
to a 47-page document submitted by #Ukraine’s government to the G7
governments, 52 electrical components made by #western companies were
found in #Russian used #drones, like the Shahed-136 model (flight
range 2,000km & cruising speed 180kmh).
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/sep/27/revealed-europes-role-in-the-making-of-russia-killer-drones
Western
parts found in Russian drones as Putin dodges sanctions and Ukraine
plots strike on Iran’s factories.
‘There is a whack-a-mole
dynamic in that as soon as you block or blacklist or sanction one
entity, another will take its place,’ an arms trade researcher told
i
https://inews.co.uk/news/world/western-parts-found-russian-drones-sanction-ukraine-strike-iran-factories-2646676
September 27
***
Singapore
fined Hydronav Services $ 1 mln for violating Singapore’s export
controls. Hydronav procured a echosounder from a company in Norway
after falsely informing Oslo that they were being exported to
Indonesia.
Press release:
https://www.customs.gov.sg/files/2023-9-21-media-release.pdf
***
Uit praatje
afgelopen zondag op 't Spui, Amsterdam: "Oorlog is iets
vreselijks. Vrede is heel kostbaar. We moeten het gesprek blijven
voeren en aandacht blijven vragen voor andere middelen dan geweld om
tot vrede te komen.
Vredesactie op het Spui elke 24ste van de maand om 18 uur." https://stopwapenhandel.org/stop-de-oorlog-amsterdam/
***
#UK PM Sunak urges #Germany to approve
£5bn #Eurofighter sale to #Saudis. He pressures Olaf Scholz to lift
veto on Typhoon combat jets. In the interest of Human Rights or Pound
Sterling?
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/sunak-urges-germany-to-approve-5bn-eurofighter-sale-to-saudis-qmtprbskb
UK urges Germany to
approve fighter jet delivery to Saudi Arabia, threatens to cut it out
of program.
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20230927-uk-urges-germany-to-approve-fighter-jet-delivery-to-saudi-arabia-threatens-to-cut-it-out-of-program/
September 26
***
Massacres of migrants and asylum seekers by US-trained
Saudi border guards.
The answer?
Far from holding the Saudi government accountable, the Biden administration announced last week the first proposed arms sale to Saudi Arabia in over a year. https://responsiblestatecraft.org/congress-war-powers/
Petitie tegen herrie vluchten van #F35 F-35. https://straalvliegtuigen.petities.nlArtikel in Udens Weekblad: https://www.kliknieuwsuden.nl/nieuws/algemeen/212834/veghelaar-wil-f35ers-verbannen-uit-luchtruim-en-start-petitie
***
Northrop nabs
$705M Air Force award for new F-35 air-to-ground missile.
The Air Force's $705 million award for Phase 2 of the Stand-in Attack Weapon (SiAW) is targeting initial operational capability by 2026, Northrop Grumman says.
***
The US State
Department has approved a possible sale to replenish Saudi Arabia’s
stocks of spare and repair parts for the country’s fleet of combat
vehicles, at an estimated price tag of $500 million.
https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/saudi-arabia-cooperative-logistics-supply-support-arrangement-clssa
***
On Saturday
23rd September 2023 hundreds of protesters descended on more than 25
Barclays branches across Britain to demand the bank divests from arms
companies supplying Israel with weapons used in its attacks on
Palestinians.
https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/657587384/hundreds-protest-at-barclays-links-to-israeli-arms-companies
***
The Biden
administration announced it is offering a $2 billion #loan to #Poland
to support the ally's defence modernisation.
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2023/09/25/us-offers-poland-rare-loan-of-2-billion-to-modernize-its-military/
Poland
has a few major industry headlines as it beefs up its defenses amid
the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLjr4XKxKiA
***
India
plans to extend fence along Myanmar border. Rights groups &
Burmese refugees say the move will keep civilians from seeking
safety.
“Drug & arms trade ... have become more frequent lately during tough situations like there is now,” said Chin general.https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/india-border-fence-09252023181910.html
September 25
***
A
man in Dnipropetrovsk Region sold weapons to criminals. The SBU
exposed 2 channels of underground arms sales in Dnipropetrovsk and
Kherson regions, through which Russian automatic weapons &
explosives reached the criminal world.Dnipro Operatyvnyy website, 7 Sep
23
***
#Pakistani Navy configured both
the #Damen OPV 1900 & OPV 2600 for conventional warfare roles,
such as anti-ship/anti-surface warfare, that would typically belong
to corvettes and frigates. They are part of the PN’s vision to
build a 50-ship surface fleet.
https://quwa.org/2023/09/24/pakistan-navy-makes-gains-in-surface-combatant-programs-2/
September 24
***
UK pledges
'tens of thousands' more 155mm artillery shells for #Ukraine. The UK
Government contracted #BAE for more artillery shells and other
ammunition. The contract will facilitate an additional #155mm
artillery shell line in Washington, Tyne & Wear.
https://www.army-technology.com/news/as-ukraine-advances-uk-pledges-tens-of-thousands-more-155mm-artillery-shells/
***
Germany's
questionable arms exports and the unresolved conflict in Yemen,
German politics and the past and developing relations with Saudi
Arabia.
SWR Aktuel Radio program in German.
***
Germany's
questionable arms exports and the unresolved conflict in Yemen. SWR
Aktuel Video in German.
https://www.swr.de/swraktuell/radio/deutschlands-fragwuerdige-ruestungsexporte-und-der-ungeloeste-konflikt-im-jemen-100.html
***
#MoD of
Taiwan signed a contract with UK #Flyby Technology to procure 160
Jackal #drones. The agreement was formalized in Taipei.
https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_september_2023_global_security_army_industry/taiwan_buys_160_flyby_technology_jackal_drones_from_uk.html
#JACKAL is a multi-role attack drone capable of firing multiple missiles. https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/jackal-vertical-take-off-and-landing-vtol-drone-uk/
***
#Tata Advanced
Systems #TASL, the group's aerospace & military unit, will scale
up the group's defence business & organises to become India's
first private manufacturer of a military aircraft. TASL has allready
partnered with Airbus to make 40 #Airbus C295
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/banmali-agrawala-new-chairman-of-tata-advanced-systems-group-aims-to-scale-up-defence-business/articleshow/103874819.cms
***
Saga of
the Romanian corvettes contract. It is not sure if Naval Group signed
the contract &...The law allows the authorities, under certain
conditions, when the French company refuses to sign, to give the
contract to the company that ranked second, Damen.
https://www.cotidianul.ro/romania-renunta-la-corvete/
However:
"The cancellation of the corvette contract with Naval Group
caused the Army to pivot to a new plan. ... At least in the
foreseeable future, #Romania will no longer launch any procedure for
the purchase of '#corvettes'," sources told Hotnews.
https://www.hotnews.ro/stiri-defense-26548257-romania-renunta-mai-cumpere-corvete-reorienteaza-urgenta-catre-alte-tipuri-nave-cum-arata-planul-pentru-fortele-navale-pentru-urmatorul-deceniu.htm
September 23
***
#Sudan’s
eastern tribes showed hundreds of its members weapons in hand. The
price of a Kalashnikov jumped to “$1,500 per rifle, up from $850
before the war”. More sophisticated arms are even more expensive. A
US M16 rifle goes for $8,500, and a Israeli for up to $10,000. Asked
where his weapons come from “machine guns and assault rifles …
come from the Red Sea”. #Traffickers take advantage of “a weak
security presence” there, using “isolated ports and the rugged
terrain” that others can’t navigate. #SALW
https://kuwaittimes.com/in-sudans-east-murky-arms-trade-thrives-as-war-rages/
***
Gold bars, sniper
rifles and a Mercedes-Benz: US senator indicted on #Egypt #corruption
charges.
Prosecutors allege that #Senator_Robert_Menendez took #bribes in exchange for approving arms sales and leaking sensitive information to Egyptian government.
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/gold-bars-mercedes-benz-and-sniper-rifles-us-senator-indicted-egypt-corruption-charges
Prosecutors:
Menendez deleted evidence and advised wife, ‘You should not text or
email’.
https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/4218443-prosecutors-menendez-deleted-evidence-advised-wife/
Even
as US Senator #Menendez accused the Trump administration of being lax
when it came to #Egypt, prosecutors say he was doing favors for
Egyptian officials — signing off on arms sales and secretly helping
it lobby Washington to release funding.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/23/world/middleeast/egypt-robert-menendez-indictment.html
***
Germany,
France eye new partners for next-gen tank in 2024. Italy, the
#Netherlands and “many others” expressed an interest in joining
the project to develop the Main Ground Combat System, or #MGCS.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/09/22/germany-france-eye-new-partners-for-next-gen-tank-in-2024/
***
Kaag said that
the EU needs to assert on a international playing field that has
become more complex, because of:
- tech such as artificial intelligence
- the declining importance of the West
- a retrenchment of globalization,
spurred by public backlash.
https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/new-atlanticist/financing-ukraines-defense-is-a-down-payment-for-peace-in-europe-says-dutch-deputy-prime-minister/
September 22
***
US approves
$500m sale for #Saudi Arabia’s combat vehicle upkeep.
The gross human rights violator Riyadh is slated to get the equipment through a longstanding support program that transfers standard maintenance parts to allied nations from #US stocks.
***
The #Estonian
army will soon stand up a unit solely dedicated to #kamikaze #drones
(euphemistically also called loitering munitions) drawing on lessons
from the Ukrainian war.
https://breakingdefense.com/2023/09/in-a-first-uaes-loitering-munitions-integrated-on-a-european-unmanned-ground-vehicle/
***
The trillion+
dollar fighter aircraft
("life cycle costs ... exceeding $1.7 trillion"):
Only 55% of F-35s mission capable, putting depot work in spotlight: GAO (https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-23-105341.pdf).
And the winner is #Lockheed Martin.
#F35
GAO
blasts contractor-led F-35 maintenance as costly, slow
Without key technical data from F-35 manufacturer Lockheed Martin, GAO said military maintainers can't fix some parts — or even learn how to fix them. https://www.defensenews.com/air/2023/09/22/gao-blasts-contractor-led-f-35-maintenance-as-costly-slow/
***
#Denmark’s
defense establishment is embroiled in a growing scandal over arms
purchases from the #Israeli weapons manufacturer #Elbit Systems. The
deal worth some $250 million with Elbit was to replace 19 howitzers
Copehagen had given to Ukraine’s military.
https://electronicintifada.net/blogs/omar-karmi/murky-israel-deal-embroils-denmark-scandal
***
Will Indian weapons be
used in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict? Armenia is the second-largest recipient
of Indian military assistance after the Philippines.https://www.news9live.com/world/will-indian-weapons-be-used-in-the-armenia-azerbaijan-conflict-2294730
***
Two persons
have been arrested in Arnhem (#Netherlands) for supplying #airplane
parts to #Russia in defiance of international sanctions – one of
whom worked for the Dutch MoD. https://www.dutchnews.nl/2023/09/defence-worker-arrested-for-selling-plane-parts-to-russia/
Fiscal Intell & Investigation Service [Dutch] https://www.fiod.nl/twee-aanhoudingen-in-onderzoek-naar-omzeiling-sanctiewetgeving/
September 21
***
France &
Germany remain committed to jointly developing a next-generation tank
in the framework of the Main Ground Combat System project, French
Armed Forces Minister Lecornu & German Defence Minister Pistorius
told newspaper Le Monde in a joint interview.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/09/20/france-germany-remain-committed-to-new-tank-defense-ministers-say/
***
Poland says
it is ending its supply of weapons to Ukraine amid a dispute about a
grain import ban with Kyiv.
https://www.dw.com/en/poland-says-it-will-no-longer-supply-ukraine-with-weapons/a-66879743
One
of Ukraine's staunchest allies, Poland, has said it is no longer
supplying weapons to its neighbour, amid a diplomatic dispute over
Kyiv's grain exports. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-66873495
***
Poland
says it is ending its supply of weapons to Ukraine amid a dispute
about a grain import ban with Kyiv.
***
The #UAE MoD
received several offers from US, European, Chinese, and South Korean
defense companies for air defense systems, triggering intense
competition. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62192
***
A #French
journalist has been detained for reporting on leaked documents that
claimed French #intelligence was used to #target #civilians in
#Egypt, sparking accusations of an "unacceptable" attack on
press freedom.
https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20230920-french-journalist-arrested-for-reporting-on-egypt-spy-operation
***
TechTech
War ExclusiveTech war: China’s top memory chip maker YMTC forges
closer ties with domestic supplier to replace US parts, sources say.
https://www.scmp.com/tech/tech-war/article/3235074/tech-war-chinas-top-memory-chip-maker-ymtc-forges-closer-ties-domestic-supplier-replace-us-parts
***
According to a open
letter by a group of 21 technology industry leaders
(https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jacob-helberg-issues-an-open-letter-to-the-us-government-co-signed-by-leading-defense-technology-companies-301929140.html#20230918)
the US government should additionally incentivize private investments
in research and development of dual-use technologies, implement the
National Security Commission on #AI’s
recommendation to boost DOD’s investment in artificial intelligence
and other science and technology areas.
https://executivegov.com/2023/09/tech-industry-executives-urge-us-government-for-systemic-reforms/
***
A
#German-made #shell production machine is currently en route from
#Turkey to #Russia and will reportedly be used at the Serov
Mechanical Plant to manufacture shells for Russia’s war against
#Ukraine, the Ukrainian Trap Aggressor project reported.
https://euromaidanpress.com/2023/09/20/statewatch-german-made-shell-production-machine-on-its-way-to-russia/
***
What's
wrong with a fighter plane which ejects the pilot out of the cockpit
while it is still able to fly for 60 miles? Untill now that remains
an unanswered question. #F35
https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2023/09/20/what-we-know-about-the-marine-corps-f-35-crash-in-south-carolina/
September 20
***
De defensie
uitgaven 2024 gaan naar €21,2 miljard, aldus de nw.
#Defensiebegroting. Vorig jaar, 2023, was 't €15 miljard. Dus +41%.
De defensielobby schakelt gelijk weer 'n tandje bij. ‘Voor schut, internationale aanfluiting’, dat zijn hun woorden om voor nog meer te pleiten.
***
German
protests from peace activists: Habeck is expanding the possibility of
sensitive arms exports.
https://www.fr.de/politik/ruestungsexport-ohne-kontrolle-92529662.html
***
#US &
#Saudi officials are discussing the terms of a mutual defence #treaty
that would resemble military pacts that the US has with allies such
as Japan & South Korea—in a bid to get Saudi Arabia to
normalise relations with Israel. https://www.dawn.com/news/1776798
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/19/us/politics/biden-saudi-defense-treaty.html.
***
#Saudi
#border killings: #German police #training under scrutiny. German
policemen who have participated in the training missions in Saudi
Arabia have confirmed the programme is ongoing, and that training was
being provided at the Saudi-#Yemeni border.
https://www.newarab.com/analysis/saudi-border-killings-german-police-training-under-scrutiny
***
Israeli
#Elbit sells #SkyStriker
(https://elbitsystems.com/product/skystriker/) loitering munition
(kamikaze drones) to mystery #European #customer
SkyStriker is an autonomous loitering munition that can locate, acquire and engage operator-designated targets. https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2023/09/19/elbit-sells-skystriker-loitering-munition-to-mystery-european-customer/
***
#Israel’s
armed #drones are heralding an era of automated killing. The army's use of UAVs has led to
soaring exports and a mounting #Palestinian death toll, yet there is
no public debate over their legality or morality. https://www.972mag.com/armed-drones-automated-killing-palestinians/
***
“New Dutch
Export Controls on Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment”
https://www.engage.hoganlovells.com/knowledgeservices/news/new-dutch-export-controls-on-advanced-semiconductor-manufacturing-equipment
Regulation on Advanced Semiconductor
Manufacturing Equipment (Regeling van 23 juni 2023, nr.
MinBuza.2023.15246-27)
https://zoek.officielebekendmakingen.nl/stcrt-2023-18212.html
***
Japan's new jet
fighter alliance pushes limits of defense policy.Collaboration with U.K. and Italy
forces Tokyo to reconsider constitutional restrictions on arms
exports. https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/The-Big-Story/Japan-s-new-jet-fighter-alliance-pushes-limits-of-defense-policy
September 19
***
French
cooperation with undemocratic regimes violating human rights:
1 French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Colonna met the Egyptian President El-Sisi in Cairo to discuss military cooperation. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62190
2 Saudi Arabia officially submitted its
application to host World Expo 2030 in Riyadh, with the support of
French President Emmanuel Macron. Despite European pressure, Macron
has not shown any signs of withdrawing his support for the Saudi's
hosting of World Expo 2030 in Riyadh.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62191
***
France &
Germany for years worked on a new land combat system with a shared
tank and on an air combat system with a fighters. But differences are
increasing. The tank alliance is now even on the verge of collapse -
also due to two German armaments giants.
https://www.welt.de/wirtschaft/plus247380178/Streit-um-Superpanzer-Europas-groesstes-Ruestungsprojekt-steht-vor-dem-Aus.html
September 18
***
Study on
public attitude towards arms exports in France and Germany also
concludes that the Germen policy is more strict "which could
make a Franco-German or European defence policy more difficult in the
near future." https://idw-online.de/de/news820773
***
Ukraine’s
Hunger for Howitzers Transforms an Arms Industry.
Hanwha Aerospace is doubling its howitzer production capacity as South Korea becomes the world’s fastest-growing weapons exporter.
Guess what will happen after the war...
https://www.wsj.com/world/ukraines-hunger-for-howitzers-transforms-an-arms-industry-a1b907c4
***
The
#arms_trade is likely to become increasingly attractive for
entrepreneurs. For the arms industry, the war in #Ukraine is a gift
that keeps giving.
https://inews.co.uk/news/world/inside-arms-deals-worth-billions-ukraine-war-2620665
***
#Pakistan's
secret arms sales to #US linked with IMF bailout. The arms sales were
made for the purpose of supplying the #Ukrainian military, signaling
Pakistani involvement in a conflict it had faced US pressure to take
sides on.
https://www.livemint.com/news/world/pakistans-secret-arms-sales-to-us-linked-with-imf-bailout-report-11695019184917.html
Pakistan's
Foreign Ministry dismissed a report claiming that the country sold
its weapons to Ukraine to secure an emergency bailout package from
the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
https://www.dawn.com/news/amp/1776567
***
NATO made
vehicles fitted with #Belarus missiles launchers. #Azerbaijan
operates a fleet of #Turkish-made #Otokar Cobra 44's (based on AM
General Humvee) armed with Ukrainian-Belarusian AT- missile
launchers. (a photo conforms its the #Belarusian version.)
https://21stcenturyasianarmsrace.com/2023/09/17/more-anti-tank-missiles-appear-in-azerbaijan/
***
#Eurosam (a
Franco-Italian European joint venture) contracted four #Thales'
SMART-L Multi-Mission / N (Naval) long-range radars for #French and
#Italian Horizon class air defence #frigates.
https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/worldwide/defence/news/thales-smart-l-multi-mission-radar-selected-eurosam-french-and-italian-air
***
Rafale scam:
"the biggest and most brazen defence scandal in India’s
history". The communist party of India on the Modi policy on
acquiring French Rafale fighters: less (36 instead of 126), against a
higher price and the anti-corruption clause waived.
https://cpim.org/views/bjp%E2%80%99s-doublespeak-corruption
***
All in the
interest of peace, security and human rights:
#Saudi Arabia, Under Fire For Civilian Killings, Is Largest Buyer Of US Arms.
It imports nearly 80 percent of its arms from the United States. https://www.eurasiareview.com/16092023-saudi-arabia-under-fire-for-civilian-killings-is-largest-buyer-of-us-arms-oped/
***
Lt. admiral Bauer of
the Netherlands , chair of the NATO military committee, noted:
→
Production capacity of the arms industry is to small;
→ Liberal
economies aren't apt prioritising what is needed, arms production;
→ Military budgets are
not sufficient any more because of the rising prices of arms.
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/ukraine-invites-arms-manufacturers-kyiv-053503824.html
Production
of #155mm artillery rounds crucial to the war in Ukraine is years
ahead of schedule, according to Pentagon acquisition chief Bill
LaPlante. The was aim was 85,000 per month by fiscal year 2028.
Currently reaching 100,000 p.m. by FY25.
https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2023/09/15/production-of-key-munition-years-ahead-of-schedule-pentagon-says/
***
The
consequences of war and climate change have been demonstrated with
the Libyan flood disaster. The Nato-led bombing in 2011 plunged the
country into chaos. The following destruction of infrastructure and
the descent of the country into civil war laid the basis for the
destruction of the two dams and the horrors we are now witnessing,
said Lindsey German convenor of the UK Stop the War coalition.
https://www.counterfire.org/article/afghanistan-iraq-libya-thhttps://pbs.twimg.com/card_img/1703535078822076416/tNfpd9vj?format=jpg&name=smalle-result-in-ukraine-wont-be-any-different-weekly-briefing/
***
Military
cooperation between North Korea and Russia is looming large. A vague
concern becomes a real risk. Arms trade with North Korea however goes
against resolutions of the United Nations Security Council.
https://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20230917000223
The
UN bans North #Korea from making any arms trade. Russia agreed on the
adoption of the #UN sanctions as one of the few permanent members of
the Security Council. Now the country is trying to flout the
principles and norms of the international community.
https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20230918000500320
***
EU
extends arms embargo on Iran, accuses it of violating nuclear deal.
Iran states the embargo is irrelevant because the country has Iits
own domestic production of most weapons and military supplies.
https://en.trend.az/iran/nuclearp/3798212.html
September 16
***
Activiteiten
vredesweek: Stop Wapenhandel.https://vredessite.nl/nieuws/vredesweek_2145.html
***
The climate
can't afford the cost of war
This week, London is hosting an exhibition of #weapons of war. Phil Laurie from Quaker Roots reflects on the contradiction of spending money on the military when we need to be responding to the #climate emergency. https://www.quaker.org.uk/blog/the-climate-can-t-afford-the-cost-of-war
***
Lulkoek: Stssec
Defensie Van der Maat: "Europa heeft 16 soorten
gevechtsvliegtuigen... niet ideaal,” zo herkauwde hij de woorden
van de Europese wapenlobby op de DSEI wapenbeurs. Welke 16 en hoeveel
zijn er Amerikaans en Russisch? Hoeveel heeft de VS er?https://magazines.defensie.nl/defensiekrant/2023/35/06_globaal_35
***
State
Department diverting $85m in Egyptian military financing towards
Taiwan and Lebanon.
$55 million would be bound for Taiwan and $30 million for Lebanon. https://breakingdefense.com/2023/09/state-department-diverting-85m-in-egyptian-military-financing-towards-taiwan-and-lebanon/
***
Reuters: At
London arms fair, global war fears good for business
As one defence [= military
manufacturer] executive put it: "War is good for business".
https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/london-arms-fair-global-war-fears-good-business-2023-09-15/
***
How the
UK’s arms trade funnels public cash into private pockets,
The Ministry of Defence’s leading suppliers have paid shareholders billions from a cruel industry beset by failures.
September 15
***
#Ukrainian
arms importer prioritizes howitzers, drones, ammo. Oleksii Petrov,
the acting director of #SpetsTechnoExport, told Defense News the
company is holding talks with various Western partners during this
year’s #DSEI industry show.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/09/13/ukrainian-arms-importer-prioritizes-howitzers-drones-ammo
***
“Efforts to
Evade Russia Export Controls Highlighted in New Report”
The federal government says it has identified nearly $1 billion in trade activity suspected of being associated with efforts to evade Russia-related export controls.
https://www.strtrade.com/trade-news-resources/str-trade-report/trade-report/september/efforts-to-evade-russia-export-controls-highlighted-in-new-report
Companies
in mainly in China and Hong Kong but also in #Belgium, #Germany,
Singapore, Turkey, the UAE, and the #UK – appear to be purchasing
U.S.-origin goods on behalf of Russian end-users.
The majority of companies identified are connected to the electronics industry
***
In July 2023, the
French General Directorate for Enterprise published its 2nd
Annual Report (French) to Parliament on dual-use goods exports,
outlining:
→ the number of authorisations and
denials;
→ the legislative and regulatory
control framework;
→ the role of the
departments which implement export controls
→ industry and
stakeholder awareness.
Report:
https://medias.vie-publique.fr/data_storage_s3/rapport/pdf/290900.pdf
https://www.europeansanctions.com/2023/09/french-government-publishes-report-on-dual-use-goods-exports/
***
#KNDS,
a #Amsterdam-based joint venture between Krauss-Maffei Wegmann #KMW &
#Nexter together with #Israel’s #Elbit to produce a rocket
artillery kit.
Will the weapons not be exported to a war somewhere or a dictatorship elsewhere as Israel recently did?
September 14
***
#Saudi
Minister of Defense Prince Khaled Bin Salman met with his #French
counterpart Sebastien Lecornu in Riyadh on 7/9/2023.
The two ministers are said to have touched on the #Rafale matter. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62178
***
Pakistan
Navy's Offshore Patrol Vessel Launching Ceremony Held In Romania.
https://www.urdupoint.com/en/pakistan/pakistan-navys-offshore-patrol-vessel-launch-1749074.html
Daar gaat weer een groot Damen
wapenplatform naar Pakistan.
The OPV 2600 will be armed
with the main 76mm gun on the bow deck and two 20mm guns as secondary
weapons. In Romanian
https://adevarul.ro/stiri-interne/evenimente/in-romania-se-construiesc-nave-de-lupta-dar-2299871.html
***
Chair of
York's Green Party sentenced after #protest at #UAV_systems. He was
accused of damaging the forecourt by spraying red paint on it. UAV
systems is part of #Elbit Systems which makes drones for Israel which
are used to kill and maim Palestinians.
https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/crime/tom-franklin-chair-of-yorks-green-party-sentenced-after-protest-at-drone-manufacturing-site-4333733
***
Export of
German engines for Indian battle tanks approved. German companies are
allowed to participate in the construction of Indian battle tanks.
India and Germany had recently agreed to expand arms cooperation.
https://www.handelsblatt.com/politik/deutschland/ruestungsexporte-export-deutscher-motoren-fuer-indische-kampfpanzer-genehmigt/29388932.html
***
Again Israel
arms exports are immoral.
#Azerbaijan tests advanced Israeli missile, as Nagorno-Karabakh tensions mount.
Azeri cargo flights to #Israeli base - used for arms exports - spike in recent weeks, as tensions with #Armenia run high.
***
Elizabeth Beavers
and William Hartung, "Why Are We Still Arming Saudi Arabia? |
Opinion," Newsweek, September 7, 2023.
https://www.newsweek.com/why-are-we-still-arming-saudi-arabia-opinion-1824773
Riyadh "is more likely to embroil the United
States in conflict than stabilize the Middle East."
***
Biden
administration will track civilian deaths from U.S.-supplied arms.
New program will have officials investigate reports of foreign governments using American-made weapons against non-combatants.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2023/09/13/state-department-chirg-civilian-deaths/
September
13
***
At past DSEI fairs a
variety of illegal #torture equipment was advertised for sale -
including electro-shock stun guns, leg-irons, and body- and
gang-chains.
Amnesty has identified 9 companies that
have violated UK law at #DSEI events between 2005 and 2013
https://www.amnesty.org.uk/press-releases/uk-police-must-allow-peaceful-protesters-demonstrate-global-arms-fair-london
***
Britain wants to loosen
rules and boost its arms exports
The UK is already a large weapons seller; it wants to get even bigger.
https://www.politico.eu/article/britain-wants-to-loosen-rules-and-boost-its-arms-exports/
***
Nederlandse
overheid cq. #marine neemt deel aan omstreden #DSEI-wapenbeurs in
Londen.
https://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/naval-news/naval-news-archive/2023/september/13559-dsei-2023-royal-netherlands-navy-showcases-hmnls-de-ryuter.html
Dutch
Navy improves radar, adds Tomahawk cruise missile
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomahawk_(missile))
to fleet.
https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2023/09/13/dutch-navy-improves-radar-adds-tomahawk-missile-to-fleet/
For decades already the Tomahawk is the weapon used in the early stages of a military involvement of the US in a international conflict.
September 12
***
#MBDA offered the
#UAE Navy Anti Ship #Missiles under a tender to arm the Gowind
corvettes being built by Naval Group.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62170
***
Joe Biden’s
administration is linking #F16 fighter jet sales to #Turkey with
Turkish ratification of #Sweden’s #NATO membership bid and this
“seriously upsets” Ankara.
https://www.dailysabah.com/politics/news-analysis/distrust-disrupts-progress-in-turkish-us-ties
***
#France inks
deal to aid #Bangladesh launch second satellite to orbit. The
low-Earth orbit observation satellite is also for defence purposes.
Involved are state-run Bangladesh #Satellite Company Limited and
France's #Airbus Defence and Space company.
https://www.qatar-tribune.com/article/82629/world/france-inks-deal-to-aid-bangladesh-launching-2nd-satellite-to-orbit
***
In a Campaign
Against Arms Trade #CAAT said the companies taking part in Londen
held Defence and Security Equipment Int. #DSEI arms fair read as a
"who's who of the world's worst arms dealers".
Activists promise two-week 'resistance' campaign against it. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/dsei-israel-companies-worst-arms-dealers
September 11
***
In a
dangerous world, Japan sharpens its foreign policy weapon.
https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/in-a-dangerous-world-japan-sharpens-its-foreign-policy-weapon
***
German
MEP for the CDU David McAllister states German French tank troubles
“of course also brings the cooperation on the #FCAS multi-purpose
combat aircraft back into focus”.
https://www.hna.de/wirtschaft/david-mc-allister-panzer-projekt-mgcs-europa-knds-nexter-rheinmetall-krauss-maffei-wegmann-muenchen-zr-92511876.html
----
Europe's
largest arms project is in jeopardy because differences between its
partners France and Germany are increasing.
Europas größtes Rüstungsprojekt steht auf der Kippe, weil die Differenzen zwischen den Partnern Frankreich und Deutschland zunehmen
WELT AM SONNTAG 10/09/23
***
Washinton
and Hanoi the upgrade growth "in critical industries from
semiconductors to defense, even as #Vietnam reportedly looks to buy
arms from Russia secretly despite Western sanctions over the #Ukraine
war." #US #China
https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/International-relations/U.S.-upgrades-Vietnam-ties-as-Biden-blasts-China-for-changing-rules
September 10
***
Stop
Shopping Choir today at 14.00 hour at DSEI arms fair. Antother good
reason to go to the protest.
***
On Thursday,
UK Pax Christi joined the Anglican Pacifist Fellowship, Quakers,
Columbans and others for the 'No Faith in War Day' protest at the
#DSEI Arms Fair, the ExCeL Centre, London.
https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/47970
***
The
Department of Defense #DoD has paid about $1 billion to an arms
dealer who was once indicted for allegedly #bribing foreign officials
to supply equipment to Ukraine, The New York Times reported Saturday.
https://dailycaller.com/2023/09/09/pentagon-indicted-arms-dealer-supply-ammo-ukraine/
NYT: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/09/world/europe/ukraine-military-arms-dealer-pentagon.html
September
9
***
7 questions to the
#OCCAR (https://www.occar.int/) director. OCCAR is a multi-national
organisation managing 18 programs (like: A400M airlifter, FREMM
frigate & the MAST-F tactical missile) with a total operational
budget this year of about €6 billion.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/09/08/seven-questions-with-the-head-of-international-arms-manager-occar/
September 8
***
The Chief of
Staff of the Saudi Armed Forces met with the Head of the Joint
Chinese-Saudi military work team Major Gen Fan Jianjun in Riyadh.
During this meeting 3 projects related to the production of arial & naval #drones are said to have been finalised. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62161
***
The
#Indonesian MoD & Navy have reached an impasse over the ‘Red
White' frigate programme's combat systems. The defence ministry
insist that the frigates be equipped with a #Turkish combat
management system instead of a #Thales-supplied one as planned.
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/naval-weapons/latest/indonesian-defence-ministry-navy-at-impasse-over-red-white-frigates-combat-systems
***
The @CAATuk
#UK arms exports browser has been updated to include data up to March
2023.
Unfortunately, this quarter the data is only partial as licences held by many exporters are absent from official government figures.https://caat.org.uk/data/exports-uk/overview
***
Behind the
scenes
See how private #ammo sales from #US are fueling the war in #Ukraine.
“War is bad,” weapons dealer Brown said. “Loss of life is bad. But at the end of the day, it’s very profitable and injects revenue into this military industrial base.” https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/investigations/2023/09/07/war-in-ukraine-private-ammunition-sales/70708811007/
***
Rather than
clarifying details of the mysterious circumstances surrounding the
docking of the #Russian cargo vessel, the #SA executive summary of
the #Lady_R report leaves questions open on what happened.
https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2023-09-07-uae-role-in-lady-r-saga-doesnt-make-sense-say-experts/
E.g. what has the #UAE to do with the shipment?
***
Rather than
clarifying details of the mysterious circumstances surrounding the
docking of the Russian cargo vessel, the #SouthAfrican executive
summary of the #Lady_R report leaves several questions open what was
really ongoing.
https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2023-09-07-uae-role-in-lady-r-saga-doesnt-make-sense-say-experts/
What has the #UAE to do with the shipment?
***
#Qatar may
opt to purchase an additional 24 #Rafale from Dassault, which would
bring the country’s fleet to 60, having acquired an initial batch
of 24 in 2015 and another 12 in 2017. Analysts have told Defense News
such a sale appears likely. #France
https://www.defensenews.com/air/2023/09/07/rafales-on-the-upswing-french-fighter-eyes-additional-mideast-sales/
***
Swedish military
company #Saab AB acquired #AI firm CrowdAI, again expanding its
footprint in the fast-growing sector.
The deal’s closing was announced Sept. 7. No financial details were shared. Saab ranked No. 33 of the world’s largest defense companies.
https://www.c4isrnet.com/industry/2023/09/07/swedens-saab-snags-silicon-valley-based-crowdai/
September 7
***
A new RUSI
analysis calls on partners of Ukraine to “ensure” the proposed
artillery park is developed, while also working to cut down an
existing supply of 17 artillery systems to focus on “maintaining a
more limited range of guns at greater scale.”
https://breakingdefense.com/2023/09/ukraine-counteroffensive-analysis-west-needs-to-help-kyiv-outrange-russians-protect-own-artillery/
For RUSI report see here: https://rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/special-resources/stormbreak-fighting-through-russian-defences-ukraines-2023-offensive
***
The European Defence Agency (#EDA) on Tuesday (5 September) signed eight contracts with European industry for the joint procurement of #155mm ammunition for #Ukraine in the first-ever move to use the bloc to purchase weapons collectively.
***
#Germany
starts new attempt for main battle #tank alliance - WITHOUT #France.
Germany, Italy, Sweden and Spain want to develop a new main battle tank. The project competes with the ongoing cooperation between Berlin and Paris. https://www.handelsblatt.com/politik/international/leopard-nachfolger-dem-neuen-deutsch-franzoesischen-kampfpanzer-droht-das-aus-/29368146.html
***
Without proper political/diplomatic context, a surge towards capabilities like swarms of drones that can destroy 1000s of targets in China on short notice are more likely to accelerate a dangerous arms race than deter a potentially catastrophic conflict. https://www.defenseone.com/ideas/2023/08/beware-pentagon-techno-enthusiasm/389885/
***
#JPO (F-35
Joint Program Office) spokesman Russ Goemaere wrote that it has
continued to update US military leaders, int. partners and foreign
governments purchasing the F-35 “about
the progress and challenges observed in testing TR-3 software in
flight.”
https://www.defensenews.com/air/2023/09/06/upgraded-f-35-deliveries-could-slip-to-june-2024/
But, Goemaere added, the TR-3 program still has risks.
***
The Pentagon
announced Sept. 6 it will send depleted uranium #DU rounds to Ukraine
in its latest military assistance package to the embattled country.
https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2023/09/06/us-to-send-depleted-uranium-rounds-to-ukraine/
Iraq has some experience with its use as did deployed US military in the country. https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2013/3/15/iraq-wars-legacy-of-cancer
***
“Our
[NATO's] job is to send the message that we can out-manufacture,”
Russia, said defence official Salm. “Our defence has been a
self-inducing spiral of declining defense budgets, especially in
Europe,” he added “Our job is to turn this around.”
https://www.defensenews.com/congress/2023/09/06/us-considering-long-range-fires-for-ukraine-state-dept-official-says/
***
Old (July 19, 2023) but missed: The Netherlands lifts arms embargo against Turkey, UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Dutch government changes policy following Turkish support for Sweden's Nato membership bid, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE also benefitting. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/netherlands-turkey-arms-embargo-lifted
September 6
***
iO
Associates, the only recruitment company for Elbit Sys UK removed all
the 22 jobs for Elbit from its online platforms. Elbit Systems UK
also removed their online job vacancies. This happened soon after an
occupation of iO’s Manchester offices.
https://freedomnews.org.uk/2023/09/05/israeli-arms-firm-jobs-delisted-after-recruiters-targeted/
***
#Saudi #EDGE
Group & Israeli #Rafael talk to establish a strategic partnership
for the development of an air defence system.
The #UAE is in talks with Israel for the acquisition of the Spyder air defence system and the Iron Beam directed-energy system. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/62155
***
News from the
Brussels' Bubble, newsletter by @ENAAT avaliable here:
https://enaat.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ENAAT-NBB-2023-06_04.09.2023.pdf.
Five pages with nformation on:
* ENAAT activities
* EU funding for the arms industry
* Other aspects of EU militarisation
* EU Peace Facility & related news
***
#Israel sold
arms to #Myanmar even after the 2021 military coup.
Shipping records show #IAI and #Elbit arming Myanmar’s junta, which bombs civilian targets in the country.
Do you know these pictures, see link: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=562993306&rlz=1C1GCEA_enNL925NL925&q=ravage+Myanmar+bombing+2023&tbm=isch&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjQ_df4sZWBAxUsg_0HHeNgDJEQ0pQJegQICxAB&biw=1920&bih=923&dpr=1
See
also
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/israel-sold-arms-myanmar-coup-despite-high-court-ban
September 5
***
#Finland’s
#Patria weighs making combat vehicles in Ukraine.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/09/04/finlands-patria-weighs-making-combat-vehicles-in-ukraine/
Next EU weapon manufacturer which seems to consider #Ukraine a place to produce arms. If true Ukraine's notorious arms export policies must improve. Otherwise new problems will be created.
***
The
Algerian Air Force has agreed to acquire 4 Russian-made Beriev
Be-200ES Altair multirole amphibious #aircraft, so-called water
bombers. This procurement decision comes in response to the
#wildfires that have plagued several regions of #Algeria.
https://www.military.africa/2023/09/algeria-receives-beriev-be-200es-altair-amphibious-aircraft-for-firefighting/
***
And
the winner is?
EUROPEAN defence stocks rallied as analysts predicted an increase in shareholder returns and deal making across the industry next year.
Who are the losers?
***
Arianespace
VV23 Vega carried the #Airbus built #THEOS-2 #satellite.
https://spaceflightnow.com/launchschedule/vega-theos-2-formosat-7r-triton/
The satellite is part of a cooperation between #Thai Space Tech
Development Agency #GISTDA & the military to enhance national
security & support military missions.
https://asianews.network/thai-military-teams-up-with-space-agency-for-eyes-in-the-sky/
***
Militarisation
of the EU policy:
The European Commission plans to propose a new 'European Defence Production Act' to boost the bloc's military industrial base. https://www.euractiv.com/section/defence-and-security/news/european-commission-mulls-new-european-defence-act-before-end-of-year/
The Commision states that is to help EU member states better face future crises.
***
Human
rights? Peace? Democacy? Security? People?
Or just power and profit?
Australia’s rise in military export approvals to Saudi Arabia labelled ‘disturbing’
***
The
#ASEAN Civil Society Conference/ASEAN People’s Forum (ACSC/APF) has
declared #Myanmar’s military regime a terrorist organization and
called on regional leaders gathering in Jakarta for this week’s
ASEAN summit to cut ties with the junta.
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/asean-must-cut-ties-with-terrorist-regime-in-myanmar-civil-society.html
***
Sinds
het begin van de oorlog in #Oekraïne geeft Europa meer geld aan zijn
#wapenindustrie. Maar hoe profiteert die daar van, en zijn daar ook
kritische noten bij te kraken? Daarover Mark Akkerman @CTWnl en
schrijver voor 't @TNI.
LUISTERUH mensen, hier
https://www.nporadio1.nl/podcasts/europa-draait-door/95349/36-hoe-profiteert-de-wapenindustrie-van-de-oorlog-in-oekraine-s05
Wil
je nog meer podcast met Stop Wapenhandel? Nieuwe aflevering van
Onderstroom, over wapenhandel, militair-industrieel complex,
wapenlobby, zogenaamd groene oorlogvoering en meer.
https://onderstroom.red/alle-afleveringen/podcast-over-wapenhandel/
September 4
***
"There is no such thing as #tactical nuclear weapons; any #nuclear employment for tactical purposes imposes #strategic consequences and engages an #escalation path down which few wish to tread." part from letter by Lieutenant commander Matt Hipple, https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2023/september/comment-discussion
***
Commander of the US Coast Guard Steve Hulse advises US navy to acquire #Sentinel-class vessels to be used as a missile armed patrol boat. They are built by Bollinger for the USCG, used in Bahrain & developped by Dutch #Damen. The ships cost $ 65 million. https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2023/september/navy-should-use-fast-response-cutter-patrol-boat
September 3
***
#Airbus Helicopters and #Korea Aerospace Industries (#KAI) have agreed to initiate their series production of the Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) as well as deepening their commitment to the joint production of the Korean Utility Helicopter (KUH). https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2023-08-airbus-and-korea-aerospace-industries-to-launch-light-armed
September 2
***
#Netherlands,
#Romania and #Lockheed agree to open F-16 training center (located at
Romania’s Air Base in Borcea, Călărași).
The letter of intent comes after the Biden administration approved the re-export of the fourth generation jets to Ukraine.
***
Chinese chip
makers can import critical #ASML tools until 2024, as new Netherlands
rules restrict access to DUV systems.
World’s leading maker of #lithography
systems said it will not be able to ship its most advanced DUV tools
to #China after January 1.
https://www.scmp.com/tech/tech-war/article/3233052/chinese-chip-makers-can-import-critical-asml-tools-until-2024-new-netherlands-rules-restrict-access
***
#Ukraine
has the power to deny Russia air ops over its territory an article in
a military magazine states.
https://usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2023/september/air-denial-lessons-ukraine…
But “we need a total of around 160 combat jets,’’ Zelensky
said. This to prevent Russia from dominating Ukrainian #airspace.
https://dailynigerian.com/ukraine-seeks-combat-jets/
September 1
***
#Djibouti
asserts maritime dominance with a naval garage. Central in the effort
is a naval repair boat ('aquatic garage') build by #Damen and
financed by Dutch based Invest International Capital #IIC and
#Atradius Dutch State Business #DSB.
https://www.capitalethiopia.com/2023/08/07/djibouti-asserts-maritime-dominance-with-a-naval-garage/
***
Constitutional
Court decides on referendum if Hamburg has the right thalt arms
shipment through its harbour. Despite the sentence in the preamble to
the Hamburg constitution states: Hamburg "as a world port city
has to fulfill a special task towards the German people assigned to
it by history and location. In the spirit of peace, it wants to be a
mediator between all continents and peoples of the world," Die
Welt forcasts a refusal by the Court to give Hamburg the right to
prevent the shipments.
Verdict 1/9/23, at 10 a.m.
https://www.welt.de/regionales/hamburg/article247104630/Entscheidung-ueber-Volksbegehren-gegen-Ruestungsgueter.html
The
refendum demands were put aside on several grounds. The issue is a
Federal responsibility and representaives of Senate/Parliament cannot
be forced to install a law against the shipments. This is
incompatible with freedom of the parliamentary mandate.
https://www.welt.de/regionales/hamburg/article247236692/Volksbegehren-gegen-Ruestungstransporte-unzulaessig.html
***
The Ministry
of Strategic Industries of Ukraine & BAE Systems signed a
Cooperation Agreement on arms production in Ukraine.
Ukraine & BAE Systems also signed a Framework Agreement on cooperation in the repair, spare parts & production of L119 light guns. https://defence-industry.eu/bae-systems-to-localize-arms-production-in-ukraine/
***
Dutch
military supplies to Ukraine nears € 2 billion.
De totale waarde van de geleverde militaire steun aan Oekraïne nadert de € 2 miljard. De vervangingswaarde van het geleverde materieel is wel iets naar beneden bijgesteld. https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2023/08/31/bijna-2-miljard-euro-aan-militaire-steun-naar-oekraine-onder-meer-brugleggende-tanks
