zondag 1 oktober 2023

My tweets (or X's) for September

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.

https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2023/09/29/australia-to-retire-taipan-helicopter-fleet-early-after-crash/93468

***
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.

https://nowthenmagazine.com/articles/students-seize-arts-tower-to-protest-sheffield-university-links-with-arms-manufacturers-rolls-royce-bae-systems

***
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

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#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

September 28

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#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/

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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.

https://www.reuters.com/world/uae-mulls-export-controls-items-sanctioned-by-us-eu-bloomberg-2023-09-21/

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-09-21/russia-s-war-in-ukraine-uae-considers-trade-licenses-for-sanctioned-tech

***
#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

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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

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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

https://www.europeansanctions.com/2023/09/singapore-fines-company-for-myanmar-export-control-violations/

***
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.

https://breakingdefense.com/2023/09/northrop-nabs-705m-air-force-award-for-new-f-35-air-to-ground-missile/

***
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

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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

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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.

MP3: https://avdlswr-a.akamaihd.net/swr/swraktuell/radio/swr-aktuell-kontext-podcast/deutschlands-fragwuerdige-ruestungsexporte-und-der-ungeloeste-konflikt-im-jemen.m.mp3

Website: https://www.swr.de/swraktuell/radio/deutschlands-fragwuerdige-ruestungsexporte-und-der-ungeloeste-konflikt-im-jemen-100.html

***
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

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#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

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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.

https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/2023/09/22/us-approves-500-million-sale-for-saudi-arabias-combat-vehicle-upkeep/

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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).

https://breakingdefense.com/2023/09/only-55-percent-of-f-35s-mission-capable-putting-depot-work-in-spotlight-gao/

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

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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

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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/

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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/  

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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.

https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/dsei-arms-fair-london-excel-common-wealth-weapons-bae-boeing-qinetiq/

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.

https://www.defensenews.com/land/2023/09/14/knds-israels-elbit-to-produce-european-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.

https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2023-09-13/ty-article/azerbaijan-tests-israeli-missile-cargo-flights-spike-as-nagorno-karabakh-tensions-mount/0000018a-8dc7-dd09-a3ba-fde7093e0000

***
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.

https://eda.europa.eu/news-and-events/news/2023/09/05/eda-signs-framework-contracts-for-joint-procurement-of-155mm-ammunition

https://www.euractiv.com/section/defence-and-security/news/eu-defence-agency-signs-first-joint-procurement-ammunition-deals-for-ukraine/


***
#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.

https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2023-09-05/ty-article/.premium/israel-sold-arms-to-myanmar-even-after-the-2021-military-coup/0000018a-6000-d339-a3af-f5b673e90000


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/


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And the winner is?


EUROPEAN defence stocks rallied as analysts predicted an increase in shareholder returns and deal making across the industry next year.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/money/markets/article-12479625/MARKET-REPORT-European-defence-stocks-surge-deal-making-set-grow.html


Who are the losers?


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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/


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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.


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Human rights? Peace? Democacy? Security? People?

Or just power and profit?

Australia’s rise in military export approvals to Saudi Arabia labelled ‘disturbing’

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/sep/05/australias-rise-in-military-export-approvals-to-saudi-arabia-labelled-disturbing


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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


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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

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"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


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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

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#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

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#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.

https://breakingdefense.com/2023/09/netherlands-romania-and-lockheed-agree-to-open-f-16-training-center/


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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

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#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

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#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/


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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


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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/


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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