Latest
on top (updated regularly):
***
#Biden
kondigt €5,6 miljard aan militaire en financiële hulp voor
#Oekraïne aan. Dat kondigt Joe Biden aan. De president van de VS
maakt van zijn laatste weken van zijn ambtstermijn gebruik om de
militaire hulp aan Kyiv op te schroeven.
https://www.hln.be/buitenland/oekraine-voor-het-eerst-russische-helikopter-vernietigd-met-zeedrone~a2c6d779/
***
US Army to
sole-source deal for #hypervelocity projectiles, drone-killing
artillery cannon.
The Army plans to spend about $646 million total on the MDAC system project in fiscal 2025-2027, according to budget documents. #BAE
https://defensescoop.com/2024/12/27/army-hypervelocity-projectiles-hvp-multi-domain-artillery-cannon-mdac-bae/
***
#Indian
MoD inks ₹2867 crore (€ 234m) contracts with MDL, Naval Group
#France for submarine upgrade.
The 2 contracts are for the part of the Air Independent Propulsion #AIP, and the integration of #EHWT torpedo's onboard the Kalvari Class #submarines. https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/mod-inks-2867-crore-contracts-with-mdl-naval-group-france-for-submarine-upgradation/116801526
***
Notorious
#Turkish drone manufacturer #Baykar has purchased #Italy’s #Piaggio
Aerospace, reflecting Baykar’s growing global ambitions while
marking a timely rescue for the troubled Italian aircraft producer.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/12/30/italy-sells-piaggio-aerospace-to-turkish-drone-maker-baykar/
***
22
PALESTINE #ACTION activists begin 2025 in a jail cell after protest
at an Israeli weapons site.
Bryn Higgs, 60, was arrested after sledgehammers were used to smash into the walls of #Elbit UAV Engines’ #drone factory at Shenstone in Staffordshire.
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/22-palestine-action-members-will-begin-2025-in-a-jail-cell
December 28
***
A
NATO-supplied #F16 fighter, recently delivered to #Ukraine as part,
has reportedly been shot down by Russian forces while attempting to
hit targets in the Zaporizhzhia region, Obektivno.bg reports, citing
a Russian source in Telegram.
https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2024/12/26/russian-sam-reportedly-shot-down-an-f-16-over-zaporizhzhia/
***
Canadian MEP
urged Ottawa to ensure that arms sold to the #UAE aren't used to harm
Sudanese civilians. Canada's FA Minister stated the RSF would likely
falter without UAE support, linking UAE involvement in African
conflicts to ongoing regional instability
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1368262/atrocities-continue-unabated-in-sudan.html
***
Krokodillentranen
Wat te denken van 't toppunt van hypocrisie: 'n regering die krokodillentranen huilt over Gaza, maar ondertussen onderdelen voor wapentuig levert aan #Israël (45.000+ doden en 't gebied in puin).
Vrede begint blijkbaar met
#wapenhandel.
https://www.metronieuws.nl/lezerscolumn/2024/12/lezerscolumn-om-hoorndol-van-te-worden/
***
#EU–#Japan
security partnership shows promise but lacks action. Overview of
small steps taken and hurdles on the road towards cooperatation.
https://eastasiaforum.org/2024/12/28/eu-japan-security-partnership-shows-promise-but-lacks-action/
Is China-Russia entente inevitable, as written here? Or is it a self forfilling prophecy part of Cold War 2.0?
December 27
***
Retweet
@sarahdobbe: Vandaag in @trouw over het
gevaar van oorlogsretoriek en de wapenwedloop. Wie vrede wil moet
zich voorbereiden op vrede. Laat dat geen taboe meer zijn.
https://www.trouw.nl/opinie/opinie-verwijt-nederlanders-geen-gebrek-aan-oorlogsbereidheid~bc1a354fb/
***
Ga
niet mee in de oorlogsretoriek van NAVO-secretaris-generaal
@SecMarkrutte, zegt Réginald Moreels voor de Vrede, humanitair arts
en voormalig minister.
https://www.mo.be/opinie/Reginald-Moreels_Tegen-de-oorlogsretoriek-van-Mark-Rutte-zeg-ik-zonder-mij
***
#Israël
schendt op uitzonderlijk destructieve manier het internationaal
recht. Het wordt geholpen door 't Westen, met de VS op kop. De VN
veroordelen wel, maar kijken verder machteloos toe, terwijl vanuit
het Zuiden de roep om gerechtigheid luider klinkt.
https://www.mo.be/analyse/het-westen-ondermijnt-zijn-geloofwaardigheid-ten-opzichte-van-globale-zuiden
***
https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2024/12/samenvatting-en-opmerkingen-de-wapens.html
Korte bespreking hier: https://broekfoto.blogspot.com/2024/12/monsterlijke-kwaadaardigheid.html
Zie ook deze activiteit: https://dezwijger.nl/programma/vrijmarkt-voor-oorlogswapens
December 26
***
Hindu
extremist Dehli increases reliance on #Russian #arms and strengthens
long-standing defence ties. In recent months #India’s share of
Russian arms exports increased by 15%, a stark reminder of the
deepening defence relationship between the 2 countries.
https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2024/12/26/india-increased-russian-arms-exports-by-15-in-record-time/
***
Member of
Berlin State parliament said the #Turkish military actions in #Syria
are part of a long-standing policy and he underlined that Turkey’s
military operations in South #Kurdistan constitute human rights
violations and breaches of international law.
https://anfenglish.com/freedom-of-the-press/ferhat-kocak-turkish-state-commits-crimes-in-rojava-77075
Not able to post this on X.
December 25
***
#Germany has
escalated its support for #Israel in 2024, approving arms exports
exceeding €160m, with an additional €30m worth of military
equipment authorized in recent weeks to underscor Germany’s
alliance with Israel.
https://www.spiegel.de/politik/israel-bundesregierung-erlaubt-waffenexporte-fuer-mehr-als-30-millionen-euro-a-40459746-9403-4a1b-b6af-cb91c8b49420
***
While combat
has seen a drone revolution, the US has made subtle but real advances
in applying #AI to military planning, intelligence, and “all
domain” command and control.
Killer Apps: 5 stories highlight quiet progress on military AI and CJADC2. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/killer-apps-5-stories-highlight-quiet-progress-on-military-ai-and-cjadc2/
December 24
#Bespreking: The #Palestine #Laboratory, er wordt geëxperimenteerd met controle op en scheiding van bevolkingsgroepen. Niet alleen met militaire macht, maar ook met bewakingssoftware, 'sociale' media, en door de ontwikkeling van een repressieve ideologie. https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2024/12/the-palestine-laboratory.html
Overigens moet opgemerkt worden dat het boek is geschreven voor de huidige etnische zuivering die mogelijk zelfs een genocide is. Kortom het beschrijft de voorgeschiedenis. Door @antloewenstein
***
#Damen Naval
signed a contract with #Nevesbu (* see .../2) for the platform
engineering scope of the Plataforma Estratégica de Superficie (PES)
#frigate for #Colombia.
https://www.marinelink.com/news/colombian-pes-frigate-deal-announced-520549
2/
German submarine construction and arming them was in the interbellum
closely connected with the Netherlands.
#Nevesbu started in '35 in the building
where also the German U-boot companies AFAT & IvS (in NL to
escape '18 treaty clauses) were located.
https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2018/09/onderzeeboten-in-troebel-vaarwater-een.html
***
Retweet @De
Nieuwe Vredesbeweging:
Aanrader: Vanochtend waren @JongeJakob en
Eline vdKaaden, medeoprichters vd @vredesbeweging_ op @NPORadio1,
o.a. over hun motieven om het platform op te richten. Wie vlak voor
#Kerst een bijzonder mooi gesprek wil horen over hun perspectief op
#vrede:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5qFGJnJoPythTxB0ofWl2W
23-12 Praten over vrede in tijden van oorlog
***
European arms
export policy down the drain?
EU foreign ministers rebuffed a call to end arms sales to Israel last month, despite mounting evidence of war crimes—& potentially, genocide—presented to them in an internal assessment obtained by The Intercept. https://theintercept.com/2024/12/23/eu-report-israel-war-crimes-complicity/
***
Turkey is
gaining ground in Africa in sectors such as infrastructure, natural
resource extraction, military equipment supply & security
agreements, according to a report (19/12) by the French Institute
#IRIS: Sino-Turkish Presence and Rivalries in Africa.
***
#Germany
rethinks sale of attack #submarines to #Egypt following #Israeli
pressure. Israeli navy officer noted the weapons on board Egypt’s
submarines could pose a significant threat to the Israeli Navy
offshore, deep under the surface, and even on #land.
https://www.military.africa/2024/12/germany-rethinks-sale-of-attack-submarines-to-egypt-following-israeli-pressure/
***
A
Comprehensive Overview of #Israeli Arms Exports to #Azerbaijan.
https://greydynamics.com/a-comprehensive-overview-of-israeli-arms-exports-to-azerbaijan/
Not a surprising cooperation. Both countries have something in comon: an ethnic cleansing policy.
***
Next step in
loosening Japan's arms export rules? #Japan & #Germany listed as
finalists to build frigates for the #Australian navy. The choice
between price (German ships cheaper) or links to US (Japanese ships
more easily US armed, seems questionable).
https://japan-forward.com/japan-germany-listed-as-finalists-to-build-new-frigates-for-the-royal-australian-navy/
***
#Italy
inks deal to buy up to 24 more Typhoons, Leonardo says. The contract
with Rome follows hard on the heels of a deal with #Spain for 25
#Eurofighter Typhoon 4th-generation #fighter jets. #EFA
https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/italy-inks-deal-to-buy-up-to-24-more-typhoons-leonardo-says/
Head of #EFA consortium, Mezzanatto predicted last year that 100-200 new fighters would be ordered in the medium term. He spoke of a "rebirth of the program" with the aim of Europe modernizing its air forces. But #Qatar, #Turkey & #KSA are also mentioned. http://a2news.com/english/rajoni-bota/bota/rilindja-per-eurofighter-evropa-po-blen-avione-luftarake-me-vle-i1136318
December
23
***
Whole gruesome article https://archive.ph/O8rGB
'Wetteloosheid in Gaza'
Israëlische soldaten doen boekje open: 'We schieten ongewapende burgers dood'
***
The #US State Department approved sale of more than $5 billion in arms for #Egypt $4.69bn worth of equipment for 555 M1A1 #Abrams tanks operated by Egypt, $630m in #Hellfire air-to-surface missiles and $30m in precision-guided #munitions. https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/archive-date/202412
Another North African country also buys US weaponry.
The #US State Department approved the sale of more than $174 million in arms for #Morocco: $86m worth of GBU-39B Small Diameter #Bombs (SDB-I) and $88.37m in Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air #Missiles. https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/archive-date/202412
December 22
In 2025, Russia
plans to spend 6.3% of GDP, or $145bn, on the military, according to
the Federal Budget Law for 2025-27. In addition $37bn will be spent
on internal security. Total spending in these 2 categories will
amount to $183bn, or about 41% of the public budget.
https://defence-industry.eu/russia-seeks-victory-in-growing-military-spending-brief/
The
#EU in 2023 already sharply increased its total #military
#expenditure, with a total amount to €279bn by EU Member States. An
increase which continued the following year, according to the
European Defence Agency #EDA estimates to €326bn .
https://eda.europa.eu/docs/default-source/brochures/1eda---defence-data-23-24---web---v3.pdf
***
How wide
ranging has the opposition against Israeli #genocide has to become
before it is stopped?
An #MIT lab is collaborating with the #Israeli military to develop #AI surveillance algorithms. MIT #censored a campus publication that tried to expose it.
***
Gregor Gysi of Die
Linke has called on the #German government to demand an end to
#Turkey’s #military actions against the #Kurds in #Iraq and #Syria.
He also called for an immediate halt to arms exports to Turkey,
citing violations of international law.
https://medyanews.net/german-left-party-urges-turkey-to-stop-attacks-on-kurds/
December 21
***
Lithuania to
Invest in Ukraine’s Palianytsia Missile Drone.
Investment in the missile drone will be
part of a €10 million investment in Ukraine’s arms industry.
https://www.kyivpost.com/post/44251
***
#Bahrain the
human rights champion..NOT..has purchased 9 H145 #Airbus heli's to
support law #enforcement missions. The heli's will be operated by the
#Police Aviation Command. Airbus predicts they will quickly become a
valuable new asset for the service.
https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-12-bahrain-ministry-of-interior-orders-9-airbus-h145-helicopters
***
War what is
it good for? And for whom it is a disaster?
"Military spending in DRC and South Sudan rose fastest in the world: society ends up paying the price."
While brass and military industries pocket the gains.
***
26th Annual
Report on Arms Exports (for 2023) launched:
https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/26th-annual-report-arms-exports-2023-launched-eu-transparent-and-responsible-trader-arms_en
The report is available on the Council
of the EU website:
https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/documents-publications/public-register/public-register-search/?WordsInSubject=2008%2F944%2F&WordsInText=&DocumentNumber=&InterinstitutionalFiles=&DocumentTypes=&DateFrom=2024%2F12%2F16&DateTo=2024%2F12%2F16&MeetingDateFrom=&MeetingDateTo=&DocumentLanguage=EN&OrderBy=DOCUMENT_DATE+DESC
The EEAS included the 2023 data in its
searchable online database:
https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/eeasqap/sense/app/75fd8e6e-68ac-42dd-a078-f616633118bb/sheet/74299ecd-7a90-4b89-a509-92c9b96b86ba/state/analysis
---
The #CAAT UK arms exports browser has been updated to
include data up to June 2024:
https://caat.org.uk/data/exports-uk/overview
The raw data is also available for
analysis in CSV spreadsheet format:
https://github.com/caatdata/uk-arms-export-data
***
UN meeting to
discuss; Western arms supplies to Ukraine; the continues killing and
injuring by a panoply of deadly munitions; and members urged a
diplomatic end to the violence and condemned Moscow’s aggression; &
the advise to read Tolstoy's 'How Muc...'
https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15952.doc.htm
***
#Ukraine
targets key #Russian rocket fuel plant Kamensky Combine with #ATACMS
and #stormshadow Missiles. https://www.kyivpost.com/post/44200
***
#French
#NavalGroup adversises its clear viewpoint with the weapon systems it
delivered to gross human rights violators #Saudi Arabia (with butcher
MbS), and #Egypt with murderer el-Sisi.
https://defensehere.com/en/a-look-back-at-wds-2024-naval-groups-vision-for-saudi-defense/
December 20
***
Spain’s
state-owned shipbuilder #Navantia, which just closed a deal with
#Saudi's, now agreed to buy Irish Harland & Wolff.
UK Secretary Reynolds said the deal
guarantees jobs in #Belfast for 3 years after completion of 7 year
contract for Royal #Navy.
https://www.irishnews.com/news/business/spains-state-owned-shipbuilder-navantia-agrees-deal-to-buy-harland-wolff-RRFMOHCR4RBRLPBFQNDNC6HVVY/
***
S. #Korean
Hanwha closes $100M deal to take over Philly #Shipyard to produce
auxiliaries for the #USN.
Navy Secretary Del Toro has made encouraging foreign investment into US shipyards a key element of his “Maritime Statecraft” initiative. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/hanwha-closes-100m-deal-to-take-over-philly-shipyard/
December 19
***
German arms
exports have risen sharply, including to the Middle East. Both major
churches are calling for stricter licensing rules.
https://www.dw.com/en/german-arms-exports-churches-question-u-turn/a-71105467
***
Updates on
the talks between the UAE and France about a joint financing
partnership for the development of the future Dassault Rafale F5
fighter jet and the Emirati senior officials managing this
file. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63198
***
#Singapore-based
companies sold or facilitated reselling of arms worth US$254m to
#Myanmar’s junta, when protested Singapore was be more restrictive
and significantly curtailed its arms trade with Myanmar, but it was
still to the tune of $100m by June '24.
https://www.asiasentinel.com/p/singapore-scores-kazakh-arms-deal
***
Some 250
exhibitors from 30 countries at the arms fair in Hannoi: military
companies from Europe, Russia, US, Israel, Ukraine, 1st time China &
Iran. Russia has brought a Rubezh-ME coastal missile system &
several varieties of armored vehicles to display.
https://www.rfa.org/english/vietnam/2024/12/19/arms-fair-defense/
***
New
Internationalist tackles arms trade.
Guns and power: The arms trade's threat to democracy
War means devastation for most, for the arms industry it means big profits. The trade can seem like a vast, faceless, secretive foe. And in many ways it is.
https://newint.org/issues/2024/12/18/guns-and-power-arms-trades-threat-democracy
***
Gaza war:
#French #arms sales to #Israel marked by lack of transparency and
control.
France's exports of military equipment to Israel have been shrouded in #opacity, raising questions about its complicity in war #crimes against Palestinians.
***
What will
win? Ethnic cleansing or ethic policy?
A senior Israeli envoy is visits Canada this week, to improve ties and to restart arms exports to Israel, a halt to funding for the UNRAW, and increased trade and cooperation. https://caliber.az/en/post/israel-requests-canada-lift-arms-export-suspension-end-funding-to-unrwa
***
For four
years, the Biden administration has missed an opportunity to
reestablish its leadership and credibility over the international
arms trade by rejoining the Arms Trade Treaty. #ATT
https://www.stimson.org/2024/bidens-missed-opportunity-on-the-arms-trade-treaty/
***
#Russian
Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov said on Wednesday that
#arms #control was now a thing of the past due to the lack of trust
between Russia and the West.
https://english.alarabiya.net/News/world/2024/12/18/arms-control-is-thing-of-the-past-russia-s-top-general-
***
De Duitse
werf #Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems gaat vier extra #onderzeeërs
bouwen voor #Duitsland en #Noorwegen. De Bondsdag is woensdag akkoord
gegaan met de order, waarmee €4,7 mrd is gemoeid, meldt persbureau
Bloomberg.
***
In 2024 (1
January to 17 December), #Ukraine became the largest recipient of
#German #arms, receiving 62% of total exports, amounting to €8.13
billion of total exports worth around €13.2 billion.
https://gagadget.com/en/552247-the-game-awards-2024-gathered-more-viewers-than-the-superbowl-150-million-people-watched-the-game-show/
***
#China’s
crackdown on #corruption that has ensnared top military officials and
several key Chinese army units has affected the country’s military
buildup, but it continues at a rapid pace, said the Pentagon
Wednesday.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2024/12/18/china-military-power-report-pentagon/
#Report
https://media.defense.gov/2024/Dec/18/2003615520/-1/-1/0/MILITARY-AND-SECURITY-DEVELOPMENTS-INVOLVING-THE-PEOPLES-REPUBLIC-OF-CHINA-2024.PDF
December 18
***
Retweet with comment
@sarahdobbe: Dit is hoe oorlogspropaganda
werkt. We komen erdoor in een wapenwedloop die de wereld onveiliger
maakt. Vrede en diplomatie wordt tot taboe gemaakt en afgedaan als
naïef. En de wapenindustrie profiteert. We zien en merken het elke
dag. https://x.com/sarahdobbe/status/1869325571441963323
De vier redenen in 't kort:
1 Jonkvrouw in nood
2 De onmenselijke vijand
3 De domino-theorie
4 De strijd tussen goed en kwaad
En de winsten? Inderdaad:
https://www.bnr.nl/nieuws/economie/10563306/een-abctje-meer-geld-naar-defensie-dus-gaan-aandelen-omhoog
En dan laat je journalisten er nog wat bij fantaseren, zoals Romana Abels in Trouw en het Parool die stelde dat Rusland al heel lang 14 maal zoveel uitgeeft aan wapens als Europa op grond van de woorden van eurocommisaris Kubilius die in werkelijkheid het volgende zei: “It
looks like Russia in 2025, in purchasing power parity terms, for
military needs will spend more than all EU 27 are spending for
defence”. Dat is heel wat minder dan 14 maal. De redacties zitten te slapen, interesseren de werkelijke cijfers niet of willen reden 5 vormen: Je liegt en bedriegt de angst voor de tegenstander bij elkaar.
***
At last: The
#US has begun relocating thousands of #Marines from the Japanese
island of #Okinawa.
But: A small detachment of +/- 100 logistics support Marines from III Marine Expeditionary Force has started to relocate from Okinawa to #Guam.
***
#Bias (on eg
race, gender & class) in #military #AI can have various
humanitarian consequences depending on context and use. These range
from misidentifying people and objects in targeting decisions to
generating flawed assessments of humanitarian needs.
https://www.sipri.org/publications/2024/sipri-background-papers/bias-military-artificial-intelligence
***
#Drones have
been a mainstay tech among the military, navies in particular.
However, because drone developments follow each other rapidly,
research intitutes #MARIN & #NLR have joined to develop an
simulation environment on behalf of the #Dutch #navy.
https://magazine.marin.nl/marin-report-142/uva-operations
***
3 MPs from
the #Slovenian Freedom Movement have submitted a bill to ensure free
access to #documents on the illicit trade in military #arms &
equipment in the years 1991–94. "citizens have the right to
know what happened"
***
Arms exports
to #NATO member #Turkey? Why not!
Turkey will not allow the creation of a
#Kurdish stronghold in northern #Syria - said President #Erdogan and
Turkish military forces will not stop #bombing Syrian Kurdish militia
positions.
https://telegrafi.com/en/turqia-do-te-vazhdoje-ti-bombardoje-pozicionet-e-milicise-siriane-kurde/
***
French-German
(officially #Amsterdam headquartered) #KNDS and #Danish state
negotiate confidential agreement to avoid trial over acquisition of
#Israeli ATMOS 2000s.
https://meta-defense.fr/en/2024/12/17/knds-atmos-2000-caesar-accord-proces/
***
A new
part of the arms race between sword & shield. Although he doubts
the hypersonic quality of Russian glide weapons, the retired Major
General Thompson argues for sufficient funding to field a fully
operationally capable Glide Phase Interceptor by 2032.
https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/hypersonic-missile-defense-deserves-predictable-and-sustainable-funding/
December 17
***
In a wave of
collaboration, leading #AI firms team up—even with rivals—to
serve a Pentagon & Congress determined to put AI to #military
use. Their alignment may herald an era in which software firms seize
the influence now held by old-line defence firms.
https://www.defenseone.com/technology/2024/12/are-ai-defense-firms-about-eat-pentagon/401673/
***
De #EU zet
€10,6 miljard opzij voor #IRIS². Dat acroniem staat voor
Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by
#Satellite.
https://itdaily.be/nieuws/netwerk/eu-10-miljard-euro-iris/
The system will support surveillance
(eg #borders), as well as security and #defence.
https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-space/iris2-secure-connectivity_en
How about the US #competitor?
#SpaceX’s satellite internet service #Starlink is projected to reach $11.8 billion in revenue next year, driven by strong consumer demand and growing #US military contracts, according to a new market analysis. https://spacenews.com/starlink-set-to-hit-11-8-billion-revenue-in-2025-boosted-by-military-contracts/
***
The Hidden
Costs: Transparency and the #US #Arms #Trade
Exploring the urgent need for
#transparency in the US arms trade and identifying pathways for
reform.
https://www.stimson.org/2024/the-hidden-costs-transparency-and-the-us-arms-trade/
Download full paper: https://www.stimson.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Hidden-Costs-Transparency-Paper-FINAL.pdf
***
Alle
medewerkers van de wapenkamer van het Korps Politie #Suriname (KPS)
zijn op non-actief gesteld. Het gaat om vier #politieagenten,
waaronder enkele met hogere rangen, die worden verdacht van illegale
#wapenleveranties aan criminele organisaties.
https://unitednews.sr/korps-politie-suriname-in-opspraak-wapenkamerpersoneel-verdacht-van-wapenhandel/
***
The #Swiss
government has tightened #regulations on #arms exports to prevent the
diversion of weapons to conflict zones, following a #scandal
involving a #Polish company that sent over half a million rounds of
Swiss-made ammunition to #Ukraine.
https://www.bignewsnetwork.com/news/274852963/switzerland-tightens-gun-export-rules-after-its-ammo-found-in-ukraine
December
16
***
‘Als dit
doorgaat, blijft er weinig #natuur over’
#Krijgsmacht wil meer #oefenruimte en bestaande terreinen intensiever gebruiken.
Natuur kan je dat dan eten?
Stomme vraag, en bovendien: zonder
natuur geen eten.
https://www.nd.nl/leven/leven/1250271/defensie-wil-meer-oefenruimte-als-dit-doorgaat-blijft-er-wein
***
The UK, Italy,
& Japan decided to pull more financial, human, & tech
resources down the drain.
They launched a Joint Venture to develop a supersonic next-generation fighter by 2035, replacing the #EFA/#Typhoon. Not the only European fighter project. #FCAS
https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/global-combat-air-programme-industry-partners-reach-landmark-agreement-to-deliver-next-generation-combat-aircraft
#Saudi Arabia has expressed strong interest in joining the
collaborative #fighter jet program. #Riyadh’s participation,
however, would introduce new issues and complexities to the project.
#Tempest https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15553157
December 14
***
Human rights?
Regional conflict?
Germany has approved arms exports to Turkey vallued €230.8m in 2024, the highest level in nearly 2 decades.
This includes: €79.7m weapons & €151.1m in other military equipment. https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/german-arm-exports-to-turkiye-hits-highest-level-in-2-decades-203554
***
Australian
giants accused of trying to fix prices in multibillion-dollar Defence
contracts
Two major services companies have been accused of causing “direct harm” to the Australian government and taxpayers. https://www.watoday.com.au/business/companies/australian-giants-accused-of-trying-to-fix-prices-in-multibillion-dollar-defence-contracts-20241212-p5kxxd.html
***
Ik zou
#Schiphol, #Zestienhoven, of liefst #Valkenburg willen suggereren.
Eens kijken hoeveel protest er dan komt tegen het "ongezonde
harde geluid".
https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2024/12/12/defensie-beperkt-zoeklocaties-voor-extra-ruimte-luchtmacht
https://pointer.kro-ncrv.nl/ongezond-hard-geluid-rondom-vliegbasis-leeuwarden-neemt-toe-defensie-scherpt-geluidsnormen-niet-aan
#Woensdrecht, De #Peel, #Eelde, #Lelystad en #Twente Airport.
***
No problem
Emirates regulary & decades reroute weaponry to gross human
rights violators, countries under embargo?
#UAE, incoming #US admin, and #Mako hypersonic dealnote. UAE is still interested in procuring #Lockheed Martin hypersonic missiles. https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63187
***
An overview
of the talks between the UAE and Palantir to advance artificial
intelligence (AI)-driven defense collaboration.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63183
***
How to regard
buying arms from the military industry which is supplying an
Apartheid state involved in ehtich cleansing and probably even
genocide?
#Greek government is a step away from purchasing 36 PULS) #rocket launchers from #Israel.
https://breakingthenews.net/Article/Greece-allegedly-to-buy-arms-from-US-Israel/63233188
***
South
Africa's arms trade dilemma under the spotlight. #Rheinmetall in S.
#Africa has been a quiet fixture for years, producing artillery
shells at a factory tucked away from public scrutiny. But now it is
in the spotlight, and not for the right reasons.
https://allafrica.com/stories/202412130652.html
***
The race
between the boycott policy by the police man of the world and the
unlimited financial resources pumped into advanced chip production by
#China to counter is creating a more insecure world and worse than
expected results. #US #TSMC #semiconductors
https://merics.org/de/kommentar/export-control-breach-reveals-chinas-continuing-struggle-produce-high-end-semiconductors
***
Any idea what
this means in absolute figures?
European members of NATO began discussing a plan to gradually increase defense spending to 3% of GDP by 2030 the FT was quoted. https://www.dailyfinland.fi/europe/40930/NATO-European-members-mull-raising-defense-spending-to-3-of-GDP
GDP EU ('23) = €17 trn x 3/100 = € 510 bn.
Russia €119 bn in 2025.
***
Arms export
control = Arming the violent autocrats
#Saudi Arabia inks deal for 3 Avante 2200 Corvettes from #Spain’s #Navantia. The vessels will join the Kingdom's current fleet of five corvettes, also made by the Spanish firm. https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/saudi-arabia-inks-deal-for-3-avante-2200-corvettes-from-spains-navantia/
December 12
***
#India’s
defence minister watched the commissioning of his country’s
multi-role stealth guided missile #frigate, INS Tushil, at a
Kaliningrad shipyard, hailing it as a “significant milestone” in
ties with the longstanding defence #ally #Russia.
https://www.barrons.com/news/india-bolsters-naval-fleet-with-new-russia-built-warship-97f607b8
***
An
#Australian #warship has test-fired a US #Tomahawk cruise missile,
officials said Tuesday, hailing a “major milestone” in the
country’s decade-long plan to beef up its fleet in the face of an
Asia-Pacific #arms #race.
https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/media-releases/2024-12-10/navy-conducts-successful-firing-tomahawk-cruise-missile
***
Op de
valreep. Activiste tegen #kernwapens in #Volkel voor de #rechter.
https://nieuwevredesbeweging.nl/2024/12/10/frieda-kas-voor-rechtbank-den-bosch/
***
What is
#Palantir?
Palantir meanwhile, while never overly forthcoming as to what it actually does, has been involved in large-scale defence contracts — mostly involving the various US #intelligence agencies, especially the #CIA — since its inception.https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-41534549.html
***
#NAVO-leger
bombardeert in Syrië
Het #Turkse bezettingsleger en zijn huurlingen bombarderen het dorp Zormogar, de Ahmed Mounir boerderij op het westelijke platteland van Kobani met zware wapens. https://www.koerdischnieuws.nl/turkije-en-door-turkije-gesteunde-huurlingen-bombarderen-het-westelijke-platteland-van-kobani/
***
Dutch
insurers like NN Group, Achmea & ASR are seriously looking into
opportunities to invest in the national military industry. They’re
giving heed to increasing pressure from the government on
institutional investors to do so. https://nltimes.nl/2024/12/11/dutch-insurers-considering-investing-defense-industry
***
EU and US
companies continue to supply weapons to Russia through intermediary
countries. Arms exports to Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and other
countries have increased 2.5 times in three years, from where they
end up in Russia.
https://unn.ua/en/news/russia-buys-rifles-and-ammunition-from-the-eu-and-the-us-despite-sanctions-media
***
"Since
its inception in 2019, EDGE has expanded its product portfolio from
30 to 201 cutting-edge solutions across air, land, sea, and cyber
domains." the company said, adding that it has a $12.8 billion
backlog.
https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/emirates-edge-group-marks-5th-birthday-from-small-disruptor-to-middle-east-heavyweight/
***
De mogelijke
terugkeer van #Defensie op Twente Airport maakt de tongen los.
#Vrijheid is niet hetzelfde als jezelf bewapenen, schrijft Marcel
Geerdinck uit Enschede. Wim Gaalman uit Oldenzaal schrijft dat niet
alleen vrijheid, maar ook #leefbaarheid telt.
https://archive.ph/OMwmt#selection-1707.0-1715.262
***
#Spherical
Systems, #Rotterdam; #QurieGen, #Nijmegen; & #CUbIQ Technologies,
#Eindhoven krijgen v/d #NAVO elk een subsidie van €100.000 om hun
producten verder te ontwikkelen vanuit #Diana (Defence Innovation
Accelerator for the North Atlantic).
Dit jaar waren
er meer dan 2.600 bedrijven die hun dual-use-oplossingen hebben
ingestuurd naar Diana. Hieruit zijn 74 startups overgebleven die de
technologie nu echt samen met de NAVO verder mogen ontwikkelen. Uit
Nederland kwamen 88 aanmeldingen.
https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2024/12/11/startups-uit-nederland-krijgen-subsidie-uit-innovatieprogramma-navo
December 11
***
Since the #arms
embargoes following the Tianamen square massacre began, #China’s
arms industry has grown. With plenty of products manufacturers are
increasingly turning to foreign #markets, said Katja Drinhausen of
the Mercator Institute for China Studies.
https://www.icij.org/investigations/china-cables/chinese-arms-flow-into-the-us-and-other-countries-despite-manufacturers-alleged-role-in-xinjiang-repression/
December 10
***
Major arms
sale:
#Damen has formalized a contract with Lloyd’s Register to oversee the design approval for the Plataforma Estratégica de Superficie #frigate project in #Colombia.
The frigate will be constructed locally by Colombian shipbuilder #COTECMAR
https://www.defensemirror.com/news/38358
***
The delivery
of K2 tanks from South Korea to Poland, valued at 9 trillion won
($6.27 billion), may be delayed due to the declaration and subsequent
cancellation of martial law.
https://caliber.az/en/post/south-korea-poland-tank-deal-faces-potential-delay-due-to-political-uncertainty
***
Militarisation
of EU speeds up. Kubilius called for the bloc’s next 7-year budget
to include close to €100bn allocated solely to defense. The current
€1 trn EU budget has €10bn for the military. Kubilius is calling
for a 10-fold increase after 2027.
https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news/first-eu-defense-chief-eyes-a-e100-billion-war-chest/
EU’s
new defense czar looks to kick rearmament into high gear.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2024/12/06/eus-new-defense-czar-looks-to-kick-rearmament-into-high-gear/
***
The evolution
of exports from the Spanish Defence Industry
https://www.revistaejercitos.com/en/Articles/The-evolution-of-exports-from-the-Spanish-defence-industry/
***
Japan's
efforts to expand its defense industry both domestically and
internationally could heighten tensions in the region and spark an
arms race, experts warned.
https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202412/10/WS67579f82a310f1265a1d209c.html
***
“Updated
#AUKUS Export Control Regimes Ease Trade But Worsen Tensions”
Australia, US & UK removed limitations on the export of weapons and allows for easier sharing of information, tech &b most prominently, military products/services.
https://theowp.org/updated-aukus-export-control-regimes-ease-trade-but-worsen-tensions/
***
Moscow is
actively using #US #electronics to manufacture weapons and devices
for waging war against #Ukraine.
As Ukrinform reports, that’s
according to a journalistic investigation by Bloomberg. #Russia
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-12-09/russia-s-military-buying-us-chips-from-texas-instruments-despite-sanctions
https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/3936193-russia-keeps-purchasing-us-microchips-for-arms-production-despite-sanctions-media.html
***
Moscow is actively
using American electronics to manufacture weapons and devices for
waging war against Ukraine.
As Ukrinform reports, that’s according to a journalistic
investigation by Bloomberg.
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-12-09/russia-s-military-buying-us-chips-from-texas-instruments-despite-sanctions
https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/3936193-russia-keeps-purchasing-us-microchips-for-arms-production-despite-sanctions-media.html
***
The dangerous link between illegal
#mining, called 'galamsey' and #firearms in #Ghana.
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1364471/the-dangerous-link-between-galamsey-and-firearms.html
December 8
***
#Vrijmarkt
voor #oorlogswapens
Hoe de wapenindustrie de exportcontrole ondermijnt en wat we er tegen kunnen doen. Met onder meer Andrew Feinstein, directeur van Shadow World Investigations.
di 28 jan 2025, 20.00 Pakhuis de Zwijger,
Piet Heinkade 179,
Amsterdam
https://dezwijger.nl/programma/vrijmarkt-voor-oorlogswapens
***
Hindu
nationalist extremist state #India defends #arms exports to #Israel
amid allegations of fueling genocide in #Gaza, prioritizing national
interests over international condemnation.
https://www.globalvillagespace.com/india-defends-arms-exports-to-israel-amidst-gaza-genocide/
On
the International Criminal Court’s #ICC warrants against Israeli
Prime Minister Benjamin #Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav
Gallant, and a Hamas leader for alleged war crimes, Jaishankar
pointed out that #India is not a member of the ICC.
https://english.varthabharati.in/india/india-defends-arms-exports-to-israel-amid-allegations-of-use-against-palestinians
***
Thursday,
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) called on the #Biden Administration to
stop sending #weapons to the United Arab Emirates #UAE amid reports
that their weapons are being transferred to Rapid Support Forces in
the #Sudanese Civil War. #US
https://worldbeyondwar.org/a-u-s-senator-urges-halt-to-u-s-weapons-shipments-to-uae-for-slaughter-in-sudan/
December 7
***
#Russian
shipyards obtained hundreds of European components for a fishing
vessel designed by Dutch company #Damen, despite strict EU export
bans following the invasion of Ukraine, was revealed on national TV.
https://nltimes.nl/2024/12/06/dutch-shipbuilder-damen-accused-trading-russia-despite-sanctions
https://nos.nl/nieuwsuur/artikel/2547231-sancties-omzeild-bij-project-van-scheepsbouwer-damen-in-rusland
***
The UN
discussion on technology transfers and ‘peaceful uses’: Balancing
non-proliferation and economic development. #SIPRI #development
https://www.sipri.org/events/2024/un-discussion-technology-transfers-and-peaceful-uses-balancing-non-proliferation-and-economic
***
Something which
was to be expected: the genocide must continue unhampered.
US investigates #Spain for denying
#port access to arms #ships. Federal Maritime Commission probes Spain
over reports of blocking vessels carrying US weapons to #Israel.
https://evrimagaci.org/tpg/us-investigates-spain-for-denying-port-access-to-arms-ships-79931
El Pais - https://archive.is/RPV6V
AP
- https://apnews.com/article/us-spain-israel-weapons-shipping-7cb890af47716111445f7726ce19ddb4
Wall Street Journal
- https://www.wsj.com/business/logistics/u-s-ship-regulator-probes-spains-alleged-blocking-of-vessels-77d5b2e9
And the US Federal Register notice
- https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/12/06/2024-28709/investigation-into-conditions-affecting-shipping-in-the-foreign-trade-and-denial-of-entry-of-vessels
December 6
***
Soms is
teleurstelling juist goed.
Minister Brekelmans (Defensie) noemt het ‘zeer teleurstellend’ dat een NIDV-bijeenkomst (#wapenindustrie) in de #Kromhout Kazerne in Utrecht eerder dit jaar niet door kon gaan vanwege een blokkade van het gebouw. https://www.ad.nl/utrecht/minister-annuleren-evenement-in-kromhout-kazerne-door-pro-palestinabetogers-zeer-teleurstellend~a5c1ea60/
***
#Cyprus buys
Israeli-made Advanced Barak-MX Air Defence, made by Israel's #IAI. It
can intercept aircraft, drones, cruise missiles& ballistic
missiles, has also been sold to #India #Azerbaijan & #Morocco.
Reuters reports that it has already been
delivered.https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2024-12-05/ty-article/.premium/cyprus-buys-israeli-made-advanced-barak-mx-air-defense-system/00000193-9719-dac2-add3-b75bd7660000
***
Western
sanctions are working. They are gradually undermining Russia's
ability to produce weapons, reports The Washington Post.
US officials expressed this opinion, some speaking on the condition of anonymity when discussing confidential intelligence. https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/western-sanctions-undermining-russia-s-arms-1733441426.html
***
Korea Herald
tells story of David Packouz. a former arms trader in clip and text.
He tells how arms trafficking actually works.
https://news.koreaherald.com/global_insite/view.php?ud=x9abits
***
#Argentinian
MoD traveled more than 20,000 km this week to ink an accord with his
#Israeli counterpart pledging the countries to a “multi-year”
effort to strengthen #military ties.
https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/israel-argentina-to-expand-defense-cooperation/
The country is led by a right wing government and protests are widespread.
December 5
***
UK’s
#military-industrial strategy -& that of others- makes the world
more dangerous. Instead governments should be working with trade
unions to invest in green jobs & develop sustainable energy &
energy-saving initiatives needed to tackle #climate crisis.
https://cnduk.org/britains-military-industrial-strategy-makes-the-world-more-dangerous/
***
More, more &
more on weapons:
#EU countries increased military spending by 10% to €279bn in 2023. The part of budgets spent on new equipment the highest since the start of data collection almost 2 decades ago #EDA reported.
report:
https://eda.europa.eu/docs/default-source/brochures/1eda---defence-data-23-24---web---v3.pdf
European Union countries are expected to increase their
combined defense spending to 326 billion euros ($342.6 billion) this
year, a development likely to boost sales among arms contractors.
https://www.wsj.com/business/eu-defense-spending-expected-to-hit-342-6-billion-in-boon-to-arms-makers-77dd4c4a
***
Pressure rising
The #UK government has said it is
reviewing its decision to allow the continued export of #F35 fighter
jet components in light of concerns that they could end up in
#Israel, according to campaigners who are seeking to block the
exports.
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/uk-reviewing-f-35-fighter-jet-and-israel-arms-licences-say-campaigners
Declassified UK published on Wednesday a detailed
investigation revealing that F-35 fighter jet components were
secretly transported from RAF Marham in Norfolk, UK, to the US, with
some potentially rerouted to "Israel" for the genocidal
campaign in Gaza.
https://english.almayadeen.net/news/politics/declassified-uk-reveals-secret-f-35-component-shipments-from
December 4
***
Is Erdogan
stupid? Does he think his population is? Or does he just don't care
as long as who critizises him ends up in jail.
Protestors against trade with Israel -included shipments of arms passing Turkey- called mouth pieces of the Zionist by Erdogan.
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20241203-protesters-interrupt-erdogan-to-oppose-trade-with-israel/
***
President
Biden has asked Congress for an additional $24 billion! to support
#Ukraine and replenish US weapons stockpiles, 2 US officials told
VOA, as the administration continued to push out new aid packages for
Kyiv before Biden leaves office on Jan. 20.
https://www.voanews.com/a/biden-seeking-additional-24b-to-support-ukraine-replenish-us-weapons-stockpiles/7885060.html
***
Officially
#Amsterdam based military firm #KNDS has appointed new CEO. He said:
"As a leading company in European land defence, KNDS plays a
central role in security policy considerations and efforts.” Franco
German KNDS works on armoured vehicles & tanks.
https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/franco-german-land-systems-firm-knds-appoints-new-ceo/
***
Over 100
Jewish Canadians from the 'Jews Say No to Genocide Coalition' brought
parts of Canadian Parliament Hill in Ottawa to a standstill today,
occupying the Confederation Building to demand an immediate and full
two way #arms #embargo on #Israel.
https://www.pressenza.com/2024/12/over-a-hundred-jewish-canadians-take-over-parliamentary-building-in-ottawa-bringing-parts-of-the-federal-government-to-a-screeching-halt/
***
#Dutch
#SOF train in West Africa. Did someone already question the wisdom of
this? A country like Ivory Coast would be considered a #controversial
destination for arms exports, so why isn't restrictive #control an
issue when military knowledge is exported?
https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2024/12/export-of-special-operations-knowledge.html
December 3
***
#Russian
economy in crisis as #arms exports collapse by over 90% and mass
bankruptcies loom.
The country has "failed" as
an arms exporter, with a leading Putin ally warning the defence
sector faces mass bankruptcies over high interest rates.
https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1983671/russian-economy-arms-exports-collapse
***
Is South
#Korea’s rejection of Ukraine’s #weapons request due to Trump or
public objection?
S Korea is wary of doing so due to its
laws. Additionally the opposition parties have threatened to impeach
the defence minister if weapons were sent to #Ukraine.
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3288984/south-koreas-rejection-ukraines-weapons-request-due-trump-public-objection
Why South Korea Is Still Afraid To Provide Weapons To
Ukraine. Article clearly lists arguments for Government and
Opposition.
https://zn.ua/eng/why-south-korea-is-still-afraid-to-provide-weapons-to-ukraine.html
***
Glimpse of
the weapons and sensors to be fitted on the new #Pakistani naval
vessels built by Dutch company #Damen Shipyards show the navy has
signed contracts with #Thales, #MBDA and #Rheinmetall, Intelligence
Online reports. [paywall]
https://www.intelligenceonline.com/international-dealmaking/2024/12/03/pakistan-navy-s-discreet-contracts-with-mbda-and-thales-revealed,110347032-art
***
#Chip war
ramps up with new #US restrictions on China.
Biden administration broadens limits on
#Chinese access to advanced microchip technology, with Donald Trump
expected to go even further.
#Dutch government follows US policy in
respect to #ASML.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/dec/03/joe-biden-china-microchip-export-restrictions-law-changes
#China has announced it will block
exports to the #US of critical raw materials, including gallium and
germanium, in response to the Biden administration's increased export
controls targeting the Chinese chip industry.
https://thechinabrief.substack.com/p/breaking-china-blocks-exports-of
https://english.news.cn/20241203/82640469de9b4334a8b896880720afda/c.html
***
Turkey? Bombed Kurds more than 4.000 times since the beginning of 2024. https://x.com/Osint613/status/1861016513123148169
Saudi Arabia? Photo internal bombing Awamiya (https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/not-aleppo-shock-extent-destruction-saudi-shia-town) as example:
***
#Japan’s shift from a very restrictive policy to active promotion of #arms production & sales reflects its broader strategy. Japan’s industry still faces hurdles. Companies remain reluctant to invest in export-oriented production for several reasons. https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/japans-defence-budget-surge-new-security-paradigm
December 2
***
The Dutch
group #Damen and the #Romanian state-owned company 2MMS agreed to
terminate the association contract signed in 2018 for the shared
operation of #Mangalia Shipyard (Santierul Naval 2 Mai).
https://www.romania-insider.com/damen-pulls-out-mangalia-shipyard-december-2024
***
ARI Arms wins
historic $26 million contract to supply OR-4 assault rifles to IDF,
replacing Tavor rifles and standardizing infantry weaponry as Israel
pushes to bolster domestic arms production and reduce reliance on
imports. https://www.ynetnews.com/business/article/rkkg00myxjl
***
Edinburgh-based
investment firm, Baillie Gifford, a #Scottish firm has given
financial backing to an #AI weapons start-up founded by a US tech
billionaire who has links to Donald Trump.
https://theferret.scot/baillie-gifford-investment-sparks-ai-weapons-debate/
***
Madrid boosts
funding for #ICC and #UNRWA. The #Spanish government has also taken
steps to limit arms exports to Israel and recognized “Palestine”
as a state in May, in a coordinated move with #Ireland and #Norway.
https://www.jns.org/madrid-boosts-funding-for-icc-and-unrwa/
***
We don't know
about transports to #Israel of our F-35 components. "The global
distribution of #F35 components is controlled by the US
Government-led F-35 programme," Maria Eagle "Pilatus",
#UK Minister of State for Defence said.
https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-clarifies-role-in-f-35-component-transfers-to-israel/
***
Russian
President Putin signed off the country’s new budget.
Around 32.5% of the 2025 budget —
€119 bn — has been allocated for national defense, up from
a reported 28.3% in 2024, according to a document posted on a
government website, AP reported.
https://www.politico.eu/article/putin-russia-budget-moscow-record-defense-spending-kremlin-war-ukraine/
***
Retweet
@SIPRIorg: World’s top arms producers
see revenues rise on the back of wars and regional tensions. The arms
revenues of the SIPRI #Top100 companies totalled $632 billion in
2023, +4.2% from 2022. New #SIPRI data on the #ArmsIndustry is
available now:
https://www.sipri.org/media/press-release/2024/worlds-top-arms-producers-see-revenues-rise-back-wars-and-regional-tensions
