Latest
on top (updated regularly):
(https://twitter.com/martinbroek)
Bij de tweet van 18 juli over Nevesbu
July 31
***
A link to the
informative and interesting Shadow World Investigations Newsletter.
https://f7ec0.r.sp1-brevo.net/mk/mr/sh/SMJz09SDriOHUnfnmZCbwguKN2D2/UR6nP681cND2
***
EU members expressed interest at least €127bn in EU-backed loans to pay for military procurement.
18 countries including Italy, Poland, Spain & France want the loans under the so-called Security Action for Europe or #SAFE. https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-defence-industry/safe-security-action-europe_en
***
The US DoD
considers reliance on foreign sources for items a national security
risk. DoD estimates that over 200,000 suppliers help produce advanced
weapon systems and noncombat goods. The primary procurement database
provides little visibility into where these goods are manufactured or
whether materials and parts suppliers are domestic or foreign.
https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26035801-gao-25-107283/
***
Flemish
universities go for a growth in military & dual-use research.
Although it has never been strictly prohibited, uni's have
traditionally handled it with caution. This is changing amid rising
EU military budgets & growing interest from researchers.
https://www.belganewsagency.eu/flemish-universities-loosen-restrictions-on-military-research
In Dutch (De Morgen original source): https://www.demorgen.be/nieuws/vlaamse-universiteiten-sturen-aan-op-meer-militair-onderzoek-de-omstandigheden-zijn-gewijzigd~b5962024/
***
Bravo!
#European #dockworkers are calling on EU governments to halt arms shipments and withdraw diplomatic support for #Israel.
They stress that international treaties
state that #weapons should not be exported to war zones where human
rights are violated.
https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/07/30/european-dockworkers-take-on-arms-exports-to-israel
***
#Israel faced
a shortage of #THAAD interceptors as Iranian missiles came in during
the Israeli-Iranian War in June. The US is said to have requested
#Saudi's to transfer a portion of its Thaad stockpile to Israel.
However Ryad declined the request. Paywall
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63719
***
#US
doesn't care about the rest of world.
UN expert on #Myanmar has criticised
the US for lifting sanctions on allies of the military regime.
“It is unconscionable to
undermine...efforts by rolling back sanctions on Myanmar arms dealers
& junta cronies.”
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/7/30/un-expert-condemns-us-rollback-of-sanctions-on-myanmar-regime-allies
July 30
***
#F35 noise
disturbances
#Japan’s Ministry of Defence is reviewing plans to temporarily train F-35B Lightning II fighter jets at Nyutabaru Air Base following concern from local residents that the training will cause noise #disturbances. https://news.usni.org/2025/07/28/japan-reviews-noise-impact-of-f-35b-vertical-landings-on-nyutabaru-air-base
***
In early July, NATO
Secretary General Mark Rutte made a striking claim: Russia is now
producing "three times as much ammunition in three months as the
whole of NATO is doing in a year," effectively suggesting a
twelvefold Russian advantage in ammunition production.
To
verify or challenge this assertion, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty,
in collaboration with the Conflict Intelligence Team, analyzed
publicly available data.
Contrary to NATO Secretary General Mark
Rutte’s dire assessment, the data we examined presents a more
nuanced picture of the current arms production
balance between Russia and the West.
https://notes.citeam.org/russia_vs_nato_en
***
US NAVY IS
AGGRESSIVELY
TELLING STARTUPS, ‘WE WANT YOU’
(16/06/25)
While Silicon Valley CEO's like those
from Palantir, Meta and OpenAI are grabbing headlines , a quieter
transformation has been underway in the U.S. Navy.
https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2025/06/16/us-navy-is-aggressively-telling-startups-we-want-you/
***
#Saudi
interest in Turkeys #hypersonic missile #Tayfun block-4
(https://www.ssbcrack.com/2025/07/what-is-tayfun-block-4-turkeys-first-hypersonic-missile.html),
& its conditions for advancing bilateral defence coop.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63716
[paywall]
However #Turkey’s arms production is dependent on foreign machine tools. https://www.foi.se/rest-api/report/FOI%20Memo%208568
***
Israeli arms
firm could lose #EU funds over Gaza drone-kill video
https://euobserver.com/EU%20&%20the%20World/ar3d4c0186
EU Commission to propose partial suspension of #Israel research coop. https://www.euractiv.com/section/politics/news/eu-commission-to-propose-partial-suspension-of-israel-research-cooperation/
European Commission wants to suspend Israel from parts of Horizon Europe https://sciencebusiness.net/news/european-commission-wants-suspend-israel-parts-horizon-europe
***
Hollow words
#Canada never stopped arming #Israel
despite pledge to halt new permits, report says.
Ottawa fast-tracked weapons #shipments
to Israel via indirect #routes to reportedly avoid scrutiny after
announcement of a pause.
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/canada-never-stopped-arming-israel-despite-pledge-halt-new-permits-report-shows
***
Support for
Israel’s military operations in #Gaza has declined substantially
among #US adults, while still about 1/3 approves, according to a new
Gallup poll —this is a drop from the beginning of the war, when +/-
½ of US citizens approved of Israel’s ops.
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2025/07/29/what-americans-think-about-israels-military-action-in-gaza-poll/
July 29
***
#Berlin deaf
and blind for #controversy
#Israel's #Elbit Systems will supply missile defence technology worth $260 million for #Germany's military transport planes, expanding its footprint in Europe despite controversy over its role in the #Gaza war.
#Airbus
Defence and Space - with its official headquarters in #Leiden, the
Netherlands - has contracted #Elbit Systems to supply a
self-protection suite for the #German Air Force’s #A400M transport
aircraft, a $260-million deal over a period of 6 years.
https://www.elbitsystems.com/air-space/airborne-self-protection/dircm-systems/j-music
***
Voorgestelde
Wet op de defensiegereedheid is aanslag op klimaat, natuur,
veiligheid, privacy, democratie en arbeidsrechten.
https://stopwapenhandel.org/voorgestelde-wet-op-de-defensiegereedheid-is-aanslag-op-klimaat-natuur-veiligheid-privacy-democratie-en-arbeidsrechten/
Zie rapport: https://stopwapenhandel.org/app/uploads/2025/07/analyse-wodg.pdf
***
't Zou tijd worden
The Rights Forum TRF wil een volledige stop van de #wapenhandel en economische sancties tegen #Israël en #sancties tegen alle leden van het kabinet van premier Benjamin #Netanyahu en de kolonisten op de bezette Westelijke Jordaanoever. https://www.volkskrant.nl/buitenland/israel-gaza-hamas-trump-netanyahu~b27fd8b3/
***
Regelrecht
uit een #Enschedese huiskamer: #glasvezeldrones voor Oekraïne.
Nederland telt zo’n vijftien dronebouwers. Start-up #Hyllus, als
enige Nederlandse partij, #drones die niet elektronisch gestoord #EW
kunnen worden door de Russen.
https://fd.nl/bedrijfsleven/1563346/regelrecht-uit-een-enschedese-huiskamer-glasvezeldrones-voor-het-oekraiense-front
***
#Turkey
has secured a landmark defense export agreement with #Indonesia,
signing contracts for 48 KAAN fighter #aircraft and two İstif-class
#frigates – a sign of Ankara’s growing defense industry footprint
in Southeast Asia.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/2025/07/28/turkey-indonesia-sign-multibillion-dollar-warplane-frigate-deals/
July 28
***
Retweet
@Campagnebds: Le 30/07/25, le Cosco
Shipping Pisces, transportant du matériel de guerre pour , doit
faire escale à Fos-sur-Mer. Ce transit est une nouvelle violation
des obligations internationales de la France. Notre communiqué avec
Stop Arming Israel 13 et Aser :
https://www.bdsfrance.org/la-france-complice-de-la-flotte-de-la-mort/#c88e79ab-9825-4e3b-9403-ea38d5123b40
(On 07/30/25, the Cosco vessel Pisces
(https://www.vesselfinder.com/vessels/details/9789647), carrying
military equipment for, is scheduled to make a stopover in
Fos-sur-Mer. This transit is another violation of France's
international obligations.)
***
#Radioactive
#waste from the development of the 1st nuclear bomb will no longer be
sent to Wayne County, Michigan, after a group sued to block the
landfill from accepting 6,000 cubic yards of the material. It will be
shipped to #Andrews in #Texas instead.
https://eu.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/wayne/2025/07/23/new-york-radioactive-waste-wont-be-coming-to-michigan-landfill/85346583007/
July 27
***
At the
#Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, the UK announced a major
contract with #Thales to supply 5,000+ missiles, valued at up to
€324m. The package supports frontline Ukrainian forces &
sustains advanced #UK manufacturing, including jobs in Belfast.
https://www.marketscreener.com/news/rearming-for-resilience-thales-and-the-next-phase-of-european-defence-cooperation-ce7c5cd3dc89fe2d
***
#Airbus
Helicopters is begonnen met de vlucht tests met de #H160M Guépard.
Deze #gemilitariseerde versie van de H160 wordt ontwikkeld voor de
Franse strijdkrachten als onderdeel van het Joint Light #Helicopter
programma.
https://www.pilootenvliegtuig.nl/luchtvaart/helikopters/airbus-helicopters-gestart-met-testvluchten-h160m-guepard/
***
***
#Corruption
Concerns
The EU said on Friday that it would
withhold €1.5 bn from an overall #Ukraine Facility fund of €4.5
bn whose disbursement is dependent on achieving good governance
standards and that can’t be used for #military purchases.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/26/world/europe/eu-ukraine-corruption-aid.html
***
US
IT-startups betting on the great re-industrialisation of US’s
military base. Dozens of other Silicon Valley industrial companies
are building out large manufacturing operations, at the same time the
Trump administration pushes to bulk up military spending.
Venture
Capital has ploughed more than $70bn into the top 100 defence
startups, which have so far secured about $29bn total in contracts,
according to a July report (https://www.natsec100.org/)
by the Silicon Valley Defence Group.
https://www.gulf-times.com/article/707891/opinion/silicon-valleys-4bn-gamble-on-defence-manufacturing
July 26
***
In de
#Amsterdamse
Laraisestraat zit 'n financiële holding van #MBDA,
maker van raketten & aanverwante wapens. Onlangs meldde The
Guardian MBDA's 'bijdrage' aan de #bommen
die 't #IDF
op #Gaza
dropt. Vele topshots zitten in 't bestuur van MDBA BV, incl CEO
https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2025/07/mbda-and-gaza-genocide.html
***
#Germany
and #France to #EU: Stay out of #arms_export_policy.
Germany joined France in telling the European Commission that weapons sales decisions belong squarely in the hands of capitals.
July 25
***
#Germany
Plans to Nearly Triple Military Spending to $175 Billion. Germany is
going through a major shift in its approach to defense, with the
government prioritizing innovation, startup engagement, and AI
integration.
https://propakistani.pk/2025/07/24/germany-plans-to-nearly-triple-defense-spending-to-175-billion/
***
Over 30
activists gathered outside the #Leonardo UK factory in
#Millbrook on July 23, demanding an end to the company’s
involvement in the #Israeli arms trade.
Protesters are calling on an arms manufacturer to stop supplying weapons and staged a protest. https://uk.news.yahoo.com/protesters-call-arms-manufacturer-stop-140836863.html
***
How to help
the #IDF? By buying Israeli weaponry and so strengthening its
military #industry.
#Rafael Advanced Systems will supply
short-range air defense systems to #Romania for well over $2 billion,
the MoD of the EU member announced this week
https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/2025/07/23/romania-buys-spyder-air-defense-suites-from-israel-for-over-2-billion/
***
Not all happy
with the show pony of the Dutch military industry, as is shown here
on the Romanian website Bursa.
Dutch wharf Damen
-under criminal investigation in the Netherlands, the Mangalia
shipyard it formerly participated in- stuck in uncertainty.
https://www.bursa.ro/damen-under-criminal-investigation-in-the-netherlands-the-mangalia-shipyard-stuck-in-uncertainty-00824655
Based on FTM article ↓
The
#Romanian state is accusing the Netherlands’ largest shipbuilder,
#Damen Shipyards, of financial mismanagement and “illegal
transactions” at a large, strategically located shipyard on the
Black Sea coast.
https://www.ftm.eu/articles/damen-shipyard-brink-of-collapse
July 24
***
Retweet
@StavrianakisA: Calling all researchers
without a university affiliation! You can get 100 free articles a
month via JSTOR:
https://support.jstor.org/hc/en-us/articles/115004760028-How-to-Register-Get-Free-Access-to-Content
. With thanks to Moya Lothian-McLean of the
@novaramedia
If I Speak podcast for the tip!
***
Will drone become
part of nuclear warfare?
How?
What extra danger will this bring?
https://theloop.ecpr.eu/advancing-drone-technology-and-the-future-of-nuclear-weapons/
***
The military will
not fight the climate crisis
Europe is rearming. Laëtitia Sédou of @_ENAAT explains why she sees support for Ukraine as a "legitimate exception" and why the arms buildup is slowing down civilian investment.
***
Helping Ukraine is
also supporting the genocide?
During a meeting, #Ukrainian President #Zelensky and #Israel's FA Minister #Saar discussed cooperation, particularly in the economic & military spheres, as well as opportunities for joint #arms #production. https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-polytics/4018202-zelensky-discusses-joint-arms-production-with-israels-fm.html
***
Against war
and militarisation - Meeting by Disarm #Rheinmetall Berlin, 28 of
July 2025 Do you want to get active against rearmament and
militarization? Then come by! https://de.indymedia.org/node/527532
***
#Welsh
government accused of funding companies exporting arms to #Israel
despite public assurances
Freedom of Information #FOI request reveals £500,000 grant to weapons supplier. Weapons components supplied for #F35s and #Apache gunships heli's. https://www.amnesty.org.uk/press-releases/wales-welsh-government-accused-funding-companies-exporting-arms-israel-despite
***
The #German
government has authorized the export of #Eurofighter combat aircraft
to #Turkey, following a lengthy deliberation period. The Ministry of
Defense has sent a formal confirmation to the Turkish government
regarding the approval of the export.
https://themunicheye.com/germany-approves-eurofighter-jet-exports-turkey-24811
***
Oh When The
Arms Go Marching In
#Germany’s cabinet approved a draft #law aimed at accelerating #military procurement and construction on military bases. https://www.freedom969.com/world-news/germany-to-ease-expand-defence-procurement-to-quickly-boost-military
July 23
***
After the
F-35 vs Rafale clash, #France takes on the American Patriot SAMs: Is
Macron looking to challenge the US’ Military Industrial complex?
https://tfiglobalnews.com/2025/07/22/after-the-f-35-vs-rafale-clash-france-takes-on-the-american-patriot-sams-is-macron-looking-to-challenge-the-us-military-industrial-complex/
***
#Lockheed’s
#F35 fighter jet programme has been under scrutiny recently after the
Pentagon reduced its purchases in its 2026 budget. #European nations
have continued to purchase the fighters despite arguments to purchase
fewer #US-made weapons.
https://www.ft.com/content/b43d3ad8-8794-4a39-b63b-13b5f86112b9
***
BBC fact finding
Professor @StavrianakisA, an expert in
#UK Arms Export, described the UK government's decision to allow for
the exemption of #F35 parts as "an enormous loophole" &
the UK export #bans on #Israel were quite limited in their
effectiveness. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz09k48z9v0o
***
(Old
31/03/25) Next step in Damen
Romania saga?
Romania in talks with Turkish firm Desan to revive Mangalia shipyard.
Union leader Gobeaja said that internal
tensions between the Romanian state and Damen have contributed to the
deadlock, they have failed to cooperate.
https://www.turkiyetoday.com/business/romania-in-talks-with-turkish-firm-desan-to-revive-mangalia-shipyard-138525
(11/06/25) Mediterranean Shipping Co (MSC), the
world’s largest containerline, has expressed interest in acquiring
one of Europe’s largest shipyards—Mangalia
https://breakbulk.news/msc-eyes-mangalia-shipyard-takeover-for-cruise-and-ropax-expansion/
July 22
***
‘When
#AI-Machines Control Who Lives, Human Rights Die’
#Gaza is a reminder that the fight against AI warfare happens not in UN halls but on the ground. It's both a stand against the #algorithmic erasure of Palestinians & a defence of #rights everywhere. https://www.ipsnews.net/2025/07/the-lesson-from-gaza-is-clear-when-ai-powered-machines-control-who-lives-human-rights-die/
***
The banning
of protest group #PalestineAction has made the #UK government an
“international #outlier” when it comes to political protest,
lawyers representing one of its co-founders told the High Court in
London on Monday.
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/palestine-action-court-case-uk
***
Why not?
Three women have appeared in court charged with malicious mischief after a van was allegedly driven into the fence at the #Leonardo factory in the Crewe Road North, an #Edinburgh arms factory. https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/three-women-appear-court-after-35593352
***
Falling apart?
As #Trump’s tariffs and demands for
higher defence budgets roil US’s allies, there is a growing debate
in #Australia if the #US can be counted on — and whether the
submarine program known as #AUKUS is still in Canberra’s
best interests.
https://breakingdefense.com/2025/07/criticism-questions-mount-about-aukus-us-relations-in-australia/
***
#GKN
Aerospace has signed a six-year follow-on contract with #BAE Systems
for the continued manufacture and supply of transparencies for the
#Eurofighter Typhoon. "The contract offers long-term stability
to the Luton site," Defence Review Asia states.
https://defencereviewasia.com/slug-gkn-aerospace-baesystems-typhoon-transparencies-contract-2025/
***
Naast de
aanschaf van de F-35, overweegt #België nu ook het nieuwe - in
ontwikkelings- en ruziestadium - #gevechtsvlieguig van
#Dassault/#Airbus, de #FCAS te kopen.
https://www.upinthesky.nl/2025/07/21/belgie-overweegt-aanschaf-nieuw-gevechtsvliegtuig/
Belgium also will continue to push for a wider role in the
pan-European Future Combat Air System #FCAS with France, Germany &
Spain and has put aside €300m to participate as a full partner in
the next development phase, Phase 2, planned for 2026-30.
https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/belgium-acquiring-11-more-f-35s-eyes-larger-role-european-fcas
July 21
***
Tomorow US Congress
will vote on 2 bills that will make it easier for the US government
and US arms makers to push weapons out the door to foreign clients
more quickly, with less time for congressional scrutiny, and, in some
cases, with Congress not even being informed that the sales are
happening. At a time when arms sales are a centerpiece of U.S.
foreign policy, for good or for ill, this is a misguided approach
that will increase the risks that U.S. arms transfers will sow
instability, fuel conflicts, and enable violations of the laws of
war... https://responsiblestatecraft.org/arms-sales-2673354428/
***
Trump demands
Germany transfer Patriot from its stocks to Kiev. This means that
Berlin not only transfer Patriots, but replenish them from the US
https://en.apa.az/europe/trump-demands-germany-transfer-patriot-from-its-stocks-to-kiev-bild-473234
Trump will, daß Deutschland selbst Flugabwehr liefert, um die Ukraine zu unterstützen. https://www.bild.de/politik/inland/deutschland-muss-flugabwehr-liefern-trump-ueberrascht-mit-entscheidung-687a46d2554a3718a6c1eaa2
***
#Damen
Shipyards has formally asked the Public Prosecution Service (Openbaar
Ministerie, #OM) to drop one of the charges against the company
involving alleged circumvention of #sanctions against #Russia, a
company spokesperson confirmed Friday.
https://nltimes.nl/2025/07/19/damen-shipyards-seeks-dismissal-russia-sanctions-charge-amid-corruption-probe
***
If
#Germany or any significant arms provider imposed an #arms #embargo
on #Israel, its effects for Israel would be immediate and
devastating. And that’s why they should do it, @andrewfeinstein in
german-foreign-policy.
https://www.german-foreign-policy.com/en/news/detail/10066
July 18
***
‘Factory of
Death’: Report Links Chinese Firms to Myanmar Junta’s Bomb
Production. The regime has conducted more than 3,000 airstrikes,
killing at least 3,242 people, including 478 children, between 2023
and June 2025.
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/factory-of-death-report-links-chinese-firms-to-myanmar-juntas-bomb-production.html
***
Al 90 jaar
levert 't in #Alblasserdam gevestigde #Nevesbu oplossingen voor
onderzeeboten...
https://www.maritimetechnology.nl/nl/actueel/het-best-bewaarde-geheim-van-de-scheepsbouw-onthuld/
Juist die 90 jr is interessant. In 1935 had de Duitse marine-industrie vestigingen in #Nederland om 't verdrag van #Versailles te omzeilen.
https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2018/09/onderzeeboten-in-troebel-vaarwater-een.html
 |
| tweet of 23/09/21 |
***
Bravo!
Workers from the trade union #USB & other anti-#arms trade activists #protested yesterday in Brescia (#Italy) against attempts to intimidate trade unionists who speak out & take action against the use of civilian transport hubs for arms deliveries. https://peoplesdispatch.org/2025/07/17/activists-in-italy-defend-trade-unionist-targeted-for-opposing-arms-transfer/
***
A Dutch
court sentenced a chip engineer to 3 years in prison in the
1st-ever prosecution for digital exports of tech assistance under
Dutch sanctions law.
On the same day, the Amsterdam District Court ordered a Dutch company to forfeit €1,013,956 in profits from providing goods and services for construction of the Kerch bridge connecting Crimea to mainland Russia, in violation of EU sanctions imposed after Russia’s 2014 annexation. https://www.worldecr.com/news/netherlands-prosecutes-first-digital-technology-transfer-case-in-landmark-sanctions-conviction/
***
A US
bipartisan group of four House members (Chris Pappas, Gus Bilirakis,
Dina Titus and Nicole Malliotakis) reintroduced a bill July 15 that
would ease defence export restrictions on Cyprus.
https://cyprus-mail.com/2025/07/16/congressmen-seek-to-improve-terms-of-lifting-of-cyprus-arms-embargo
***
Eisers vorderen
in de dagvaarding:
- de #Vlaamse regering te gebieden per direct iedere #doorvoer te (doen) staken van defensiegerelateerde producten en ander voor militair gebruik dienstig
materiaal naar #Israël; etc. https://www.rechtbanken-tribunaux.be/sites/default/files/media/bru/files/beschikking-20250717-25-69-c-forum-vredesactie-ea-tg-vl-gew-pseudo-def_0.pdf
En de rechter gaf de eisers gelijk.
A Belgian court
has ordered the Flemish regional government to suspend all military
transit to Israel via its territory, citing violations of
international humanitarian law, Belgian news agency Belga reports.
https://www.euractiv.com/section/defence/news/belgian-court-halts-arms-transit-to-israel-via-flanders/
Bruselas Un tribunal belga ha
ordenado al gobierno de Flandes (la comunidad neerlandófona) que
suspenda el tránsito de material militar a Israel a través de su
territorio, alegando violaciones del derecho internacional
humanitario, según informó la agencia de noticias Belga.
https://euractiv.es/section/politics/news/belgian-court-halts-arms-transit-to-israel-via-flanders/
#Vlaams #wapenverbod raakt #Israël amper, maar schept wel precedent. https://fd.nl/politiek/1563183/vlaamswapenverbod-raakt-israel-amper-maar-schept-wel-preceden
July 17
***
#Pentagon
taps four commercial tech firms to expand military use of AI. The
four firms — #Google, #Anthropic, #OpenAI and #ElonMusk's #xAI —
will help the DoD to develop #AI workflows for key US security
missions.
https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2025/07/15/pentagon-taps-four-commercial-tech-firms-to-expand-military-use-of-ai/
***
Details of
ongoing talks between #Thales and Emirati defense and technology
stakeholders to establish an artificial intelligence #AI research and
development (R&D) center in #AbuDhabi. [paywall]
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63682
***
Due to US
#chips and other emerging tech-related export controls to #China
programs, the #Dutch imposed unilateral export controls on SME.
Thereby steering away from the #EU and other int. #export #control
regimes.
Article describes this paradigm shift.
***
Trump
administration will allow #semiconductor firm #Nvidia to sell its
previously restricted advanced H20 chips to #China as part of an
agreement Washington and Beijing reached during trade talks in recent
months, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said.
https://techwireasia.com/2025/07/nvidia-ai-chip-china-export-ban-lifted/
***
De
#GIUK-kloof wordt nu niet alleen gebruikt om Russische #onderzeeërs
op te sluiten in het Noordoostelijk deel van de Atlantische oceaan,
maar als argument om #NAVO-lidstaat #IJsland ook te bewegen het geld
uit te geven aan wapens en militairen.
https://www.rtl.nl/nieuws/buitenland/artikel/5518585/ijsland-navo-lid-geen-leger-uitvalsbasis
***
 |
| MBDA B.V. Financial Holding Amsterdam. |
Europe’s largest
missiles maker #MBDA
is selling key components for bombs that 've been shipped in their
1000s to Israel & used in multiple airstrikes where research
indicates Palestinian children & other civilians were killed.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jul/17/european-missile-group-mbda-selling-parts-for-bombs-that-have-killed-children-in-gaza
***
When you've to pay
to military strengthen your opponent.
#France reportedly does not plan to join a NATO-backed initiative for European countries to finance #US arms shipments to #Ukraine. https://www.gazetaexpress.com/en/France-withdraws-from-NATO-plan-to-finance-US-weapons-for-Ukraine/
July 15
***
Retweet
@lvandenassumTake note: Myanmar now takes
third place for drone warfare use, after Russia and
Ukraine.https://acleddata.com/2025/07/01/the-war-from-the-sky-how-drone-warfare-is-shaping-the-conflict-in-myanmar/
***
Not very subtle
written, but the problem is recurring over and over again; that has
far worse effects than blunt language:
How #Rheinmetall Uses South Africa to Evade European Arms Controls https://allafrica.com/stories/202507140873.html
Still European leaders see the company as providing security.
July 14
***
Partner with
military industries of autocrats who violate human rights, target
their own population, to improve security, isn't it.
Talks between #Saudi #SAMI and
#NavalGroup to establish a R&D center focused on underwater
warfare systems.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63674
***
Which side are you
on?
Some think it is better to murder a
complete population than to oppose this crime against humanity.
Thirteen arrested under terror laws at
Cardiff protest released on bail.
https://pembrokeshire-herald.com/117114/thirteen-arrested-at-cardiff-palestine-protest-as-backlash-grows-over-terrorism-charges/
***
Is that the
fighter claimed to defend 'us'?
#Amnesty Int. Australia is gravely concerned by new reports confirming that Australia has directly supplied parts for #F35 fighters to Israel, which have been used in its #genocide against Palestinians in #Gaza. https://www.amnesty.org.au/disturbing-reports-confirm-australias-supply-of-f-35-parts-used-in-israels-genocide-against-palestinians/
July 12
***
Negotiators
from the DR #Congo and the #M23 armed group were in Qatar Wednesday
for talks. The Rwanda-backed M23 had called last week for more talks
to address problems left out of a peace #agreement between Kigali &
Kinshasa inked in Washington in June.
https://jordantimes.com/news/world/dr-congo-m23-rebels-in-qatar-for-talks-on-broader-truce-diplomat
***
Een hapsnap
artikel over oorlogsvoorbereiding, militaire productie, wapenhandel
en overslag en de '#Rotterdamse
haven', mensen met Palestijnse achtergrond in Vlaardingen en
bevoorrading Russen door een bedrijf uit Schiedam.
https://www.bnnvara.nl/joop/artikelen/de-oorlog-in-mijn-regio
July 11
***
Despite the
denial of major crimes in some High Places #steel shipment from the
port of Barcelona to #Israel's main arms manufacturer canceled. The
Basque steel company #Sidenor didn't ship steel Israel Military
Industries #IMI were not shipped on July 1st
https://en.ara.cat/international/steel-shipment-from-the-port-of-barcelona-to-israel-s-main-arms-manufacturer-canceled_1_5440061.html
***
Interim-FNV-voorz
Koerselman geeft belangrijkste punten al weg, zonder ook maar 1 lid
te hebben geraadpleegd en steunt de militaire uitgaven door het naar
achteren schuiven ervan.
https://fd.nl/opinie/1561580/nee-we-hoeven-niet-te-bezuinigen-op-de-nederlandse-samenleving-om-te-investeren-in-defensie
De problemen zijn daarmee verrre van opgelost. https://esb.nu/oplossen-van-de-begrotingspuzzel-vraagt-om-kiezen-in-de-zorg-en-bij-defensie/
***
A warning:
If military might become the ruling power “the consequences will be grave: a global arms race, renewed wars of conquest, shrinking trade, and the collapse of the cooperation needed to confront shared global threats.”
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/united-states/might-unmakes-right-hathaway-shapiro
Do those in power care?
***
South Korea
appears ready to scrap plans for acquiring additional #Boeing AH-64E
#Apache attack heli's, as defense leaders mull the changing
requirements of warfare & aim for different weaponry, seen the
vulnerability of the heli's in the war in Ukraine.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2025/07/09/south-korea-backtracks-over-follow-on-apache-helicopter-buy/
***
The EU is split
on UK joining its weapons fund - and France is saying non
Some countries are sceptical about full British involvement in the EU's defence investment fund - with senior officials saying it will undermine the bloc's supply chain.
https://inews.co.uk/news/world/eu-split-uk-joining-weapons-fund-france-saying-non-3791737
July 10
***
#Purmerend/Neck/Wormerland
willen aanpassingen in het plan van Defensie voor extra territorium
voor laagvliegende #helikopters. De toestellen scheren wat hen
betreft dan te laag over dorpskernen en werelderfgoed, zoals #Neck en
de #Beemster.’ Zie
https://www.noordhollandsdagblad.nl/regio/zaanstreek-waterland/waterland/purmerend-en-wormerland-niet-blij-met-plan-om-helikopters-vlak-boven-de-huizen-te-laten-vliegen-het-kanaal-is-een-logische-harde-grens/76397055.html
***
You tend to think
he has share in the booming arms industry.
Allies need to ramp up arms production,
#NATO's spokesman (the chief has his office in the White House) Mark
#Rutte says in Berlin.
https://www.euronews.com/2025/07/09/allies-need-to-ramp-up-arms-production-natos-chief-mark-rutte-says-in-berlin
***
@CDS_Defensie:
"Nederland blijft zich inzetten voor #vrede en veiligheid in het
Midden-Oosten," zo schrijft de hoogste Nederlandse militair.
https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2025/07/08/eichelsheim-stabiliteit-in-het-midden-oosten-belangrijk-voor-europa
Tja, wat zijn we goed. De wapenhandel met #Israel floreert. Niet alleen is er veel belangstelling
voor #Israëlische wapens. Ook verdient #Nederland, aan de levering van wapens en militair materieel aan Israël en gaat daarmee door ook als de rechter het afwijst. https://www.oneworld.nl/mensenrechten/getest-op-palestijnen-israelische-wapens-zijn-wereldwijd-populair/
Zo werkt men aan stabiliteit en vrede.
July 9
***
Retweet
@Tapol_UK: Prabowo’s planned and realised
militarisation of Government has been extensive, suggesting a level
of involvement in social, economic and political affairs far greater
than changes seen since 2014.
https://tapol.org/publications/prabowos-programme-militarisation-takes-shape
***
Retweet
@GKNAero and @ArianeGroup: strengthen
partnership on #Ariane6 with new frame contract. We’ll continue
supplying key components for Vulcain 2.1 and Vinci engines. More:
https://www.gknaerospace.com/news-insights/news/gkn-aerospace-and-arianegroup-strengthen-partnership-with-new-ariane-6-contract/
"Geopolitical developments show us that we can no longer
separate military and civilian use, between Ariane 6 and [the nuclear
SLBM] M51," says Martin Sion CEO of Ariane.
https://www.welt.de/politik/ausland/article256151024/ariane-6-europa-macht-tempo-im-wettlauf-um-den-weltraum-doch-der-rueckstand-ist-enorm.html
***
Leve
de vrije markt! maar niet als over militaire poducenten gaat,
blijkbaar.
Kabinet trekt € 270m uit om een Nederlands bedrijf dat actief is in de militaire industrie overeind te houden. Volgens een goed ingevoerde bron gaat het om scheepsbouwer #Damen. https://www.ad.nl/politiek/reddingsboei-van-270-miljoen-voor-scheepsbouwer-damen~af84e95b/
Free market? Not fot the military industry.
The Dutch government has made €270
million available to help Damen Naval shipyards out of financial
difficulty, various sources close to the agreement have told
broadcaster NOS.
https://www.dutchnews.nl/2025/07/dutch-bail-out-damen-naval-with-e270m-bridging-loan-media/
***
Annalena
Baerbock’s election as President of the UN General Assembly has
caused protests, academic condemnation, and political opposition
because of her defence of Israeli ops in Gaza, past political conduct
& integrity controversies have prompted .
https://www.helsinkitimes.fi/world-int/27349-baerbock-presidency-at-un-sparks-global-criticism.html
See also petition
advertised here:
https://x.com/andrewfeinstein/status/1942279018218176906
***
Israeli
#genocide supported by #Europe.
More than half of Israel's arms exports last year went to Europe, up from 35% in 2023, as countries replace donated equipment and invest heavily under #NATO’s expanded military spending commitments.
***
Greens glad,
militarists cheerful and Ursula-bit-beside-the-rules can stay.
Von der Leyen moves to merge green, military, space funds in new EU budget law.
The EC is pushing to create a massive industrial policy fund by merging 14 existing budget lines. https://www.euractiv.com/section/economy-jobs/news/von-der-leyen-moves-to-merge-green-defence-space-funds-in-new-eu-budget-law/
***
#Japan will
#export six 2nd hand navy destroyers to the #Philippines to
strengthen its deterrence against #China, the Yomiuri newspaper
reported. The 2 US allies increase cooperation to counter Beijing.
https://oodaloop.com/briefs/arms-trade/japan-to-export-used-destroyers-to-philippines-to-deter-china/
***
From 2020 to 24,
54% of the Pentagon's discretionary spending of $4.4 trillion went to
private firms.
It is described as a “continuing and
massive transfer of wealth from taxpayers to fund war and weapons
manufacturing”.
- https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jul/08/pentagon-military-spending
- https://watson.brown.edu/costsofwar/papers/2025/MilitaryContractors
***
Shadow looms
over #Mexico’s former president Peña Nieto as a fresh
investigation is launched into allegations that he accepted a $25
million #bribe from #Israeli businessmen to secure contracts for
#Pegasus spyware during his 2012–18 presidency.
https://www.jfeed.com/news-world/mexico-pegasus-spyware-bribery-scandal
***
#Switzerland
exported 20% more #war materiel in the first half of 2025 compared to
the same period last year. Among the buyers of Swiss military
equipment were authoritarian regimes such as #Qatar and #Saudi Arabia
(and rose by 95.5% & 57%, respectively.
https://menafn.com/1109775416/Swiss-Weapons-Exports-Grew-20-In-First-Half-Of-2025
***
Security of the
other, F*ck Them.
THE company #Rheinmetall Denel Munition #RDM — an arms manufacturer operating in #SouthAfrica — has once again come under the spotlight following claims that its products may have been used in the ongoing war in #Sudan. https://sundayindependent.co.za/news/2025-07-08-rheinmetall-denel-faces-scrutiny-over-allegations-of-arms-use-in-sudan-conflict/
***
Retweet
@leoncastjan: ReArm Europe = not a word on
human rights due diligence and downstream damage risk assessments?
https://www.euractiv.com/section/defence/news/rheinmetall-sees-bundled-europe-wide-military-orders-as-path-to-better-prices/
***
#US building
air bases and #ammunition #warehouses in #Israel.
The current projects total more than
$250m, with future ones expected to exceed $1bn.
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/us-building-air-bases-and-ammunition-warehouses-israel
***
Rheinmetall
Ede bloeit weer op nu zware pantserwagens zoals hun Boxer passen in
de strijd in Oekraïne.
https://fd.nl/economie/1561585/rheinmetall-ede-bloeit-weer-op-nu-zware-pantserwagens-hun-nut-in-oekraine-bewijzen
Enige tijd geleden schreef ik dit blog over Rheinmetall in Nederland: https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2021/03/rheinmetall-german-dutch-connection.html
July
8
***
How to make the USA
Stay Powerful and Great?
Buying US arms will 'help' Europe unlock trade deal with Washington, EU leader says. António Costa, one of the bloc’s top officials, says pledge to spend more on defense will cut US trade deficit. https://www.wsj.com/world/europe/buying-u-s-arms-will-help-europe-unlock-trade-deal-with-trump-eu-leader-says-f6f29238
***
The #UAE is
interested in the procurement of #Russian military aircraft,
especially the Su-35 #fighter jet and the Ka-52 attack #helicopter.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/63658
[paywall]
***
Defence of Europe
to gain national income. New europen fighter aircraft FCAS pestered
by conflict between Germany and France. Now it becomes clear France
wants 80% of the production.
- https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/paris-demands-80-workshare-franco-german-fighter-jet-says-source-2025-07-07/
- https://www.hartpunkt.de/fcas-erhaelt-frankreich-80-prozent-am-neuen-new-generation-fighter/
- https://nl.marketscreener.com/koers/aandeel/AIRBUS-SE-4637/nieuws/Parijs-eist-80-werkverdeling-in-Frans-Duitse-gevechtsvliegtuig-aldus-bron-50447853/
***
Despite
#Spain’s public statements to an embargo, sources within the MoD
admit a full break would be “highly difficult”, as key parts
of the military tech still rely on #Israeli systems.
But Madrid is pressured to back
rhetoric & enforce a full #embargo.
https://www.euractiv.com/section/defence/news/spains-arms-embargo-on-israel-hits-enemy-lines-at-home/
July
7
***
#Germany is
will procure thousands of new 2.500 armoured #vehicles #IFV's and
1.000 battle tanks #MBT's valued €25bn, aimed at fulfilling #NATO’s
force generation targets, bolstering deterrence against Russia and
burning more #fosil fuels.
https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/germany-considering-purchase-of-1000-tanks-and-2500-ifvs/
***
The #Dutch
city of #Papendrecht witnessed a protest demonstration on Saturday
against "#GKN #Fokker" company's export of spare parts for
#F-35 stealth multirole fighter jets to the Israeli entity.
https://www.saba.ye/en/news3511668.htm
Nederlandstalig: https://www.ad.nl/papendrecht/mars-van-gemeentehuis-papendrecht-naar-gkn-fokker-protest-tegen-leveringen-aan-israel~a8355d8c/
***
#Damen Naval
has contracted Alewijnse (https://www.alewijnse.nl/) to serve as its
primary partner for electrical system integration for the #Colombian
Navy’s PES-#frigate, which is currently under development.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/damen-naval-onboards-alewijnse-to-support-colombia-s-pes-frigate/ar-AA1GZexw
***
Even the
slightest hint of restricting the use of some of the Israeli military
technology - like here in the UK - creates opposition in favour of
the Israeli industry which is enabling the genocide.
https://worldisraelnews.com/uk-labour-faces-backlash-over-reported-plan-to-drop-israeli-defense-tech/
***
President Erdogan has reiterated
#Turkey’s determination to proceed with the acquisition of F-35
fighter jets.
https://defence-industry.eu/erdogan-expects-f-35-deliveries-during-trump-presidency-rejects-greek-concerns/
***
#NATO
accounts for 34% of all #US #arms exports globally. No wonder, Trump
came away from the Hague saying he enjoyed himself at the NATO event.
The NATO summit didn’t utter a word about Russia. It was, in
reality, about fuelling #Trump’s MAGA movement.
https://www.eurasiareview.com/07072025-natos-mega-spending-pleases-trump-oped/
***
The murky
world of arms exports:
#French #intelligence has concluded
that #China deployed its embassies to discredit the #Rafale fighters
after its combat debut in the #India-#Pakistan clashes this May, in a
bid to derail French arms exports.
https://swarajyamag.com/news-brief/morning-brief-china-spread-disinformation-to-back-pakistans-claim-of-rafale-kills-french-intel-india-us-near-mini-trade-deal-ahead-of-9-july-deadline-and-more
The Chinese Global Times: Tying the gains & losses of the #Rafale in specific markets rigidly to #China is merely self-dramatization; it isn't only an evasion of reality and also a recurring issue of "shifting the blame to China" when faced with problems. https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202507/1337841.shtml
July
6
Review 'Onder ons' (book & database, by Birte Scholhaus en Bas van Beek of Follow the Money) with a focus on foreign and military affairs connections in the confidential clubs of the elite. https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2025/07/secret-societies-and-foreign-affairs.html
Voor een Nederlandstalige versie zie
hier:
https://broekfoto.blogspot.com/2025/07/geheime-verenigingen-en-buitenlandse.html
Vier van de 14 secretarissen-generaal van de NAVO waren Nederlander en lid van een vertrouwelijke 'vriendenclub' voor de eilte, zo blijkt uit boek Onder ons en bijbehorende database. Zie mijn bespreking ↑
July 3
***
How to support the
military industry of a country committing genocide?
Buy weaponry from that country (& continue to claim your are defending democracy rights), like eg #Romania does.
Budapest bought at #Israel’s #Rafael Advanced Defense Systems $2.23bn. https://mapn.ro/cpresa/18908_informa%C8%9Bie-de-presa
***
De provincie
Gelderland is onaangenaam verrast door het plan van het demissionaire
kabinet om Defensie makkelijker te laten oefenen en trainen.
Gelderland noemt de plannen een ,,bestuurlijke oekaze waardoor de
Veluwe verder op slot wordt gezet”.
https://www.barneveldsekrant.nl/lokaal/maatschappelijk/1181660/gelderland-niet-blij-met-vrijbrief-voor-oefeningen-defensie
***
'In de
voormalige autofabriek van VDL in Born start nog dit jaar de
grootschalige productie van militaire drones. Ook zullen er
defensievoertuigen worden onderhouden en gemoderniseerd.’
https://www.ad.nl/eindhoven/vdl-sluit-deal-met-defensie-militaire-drones-en-voertuigen-in-voormalige-autofabriek-in-born~a0e405bd/259526249/ m.d.a @GLeemput
***
#Bewapeningsgolf
gaat mogelijk ten koste van uitbreiding Neerlands mooiste. Kan #ASML
wel nieuwe fabrieken bouwen op de beoogde plek bij de #Eindhovense
luchthaven? #TNO onderzoekt het. Dat blijkt uit vrijgegeven stukken
van #Defensie.
https://www.ed.nl/asml/defensie-waarschuwde-asml-f35s-helis-en-passerende-tanks-kunnen-problemen-geven~a0a8010e/
July 2
***
#WRI posted a
blog about an action by an action group called #GeefTegengas at the
port of #Rotterdam during the NATO summit last week. It mentions the
transport of F35 parts between the USA and #Israel as one of the
motivations for the action:
https://wri-irg.org/en/story/2025/why-dutch-activists-are-targetting-port-rotterdam
***
#UAE Delisted
from #EU High-Risk Countries: A strategic turning point in bilateral
relations.
https://www.tacticalreport.com/in-depth/63633 [paywall]
And is the EU also sure the UAE does not illegally export military materiel to entities at war? Or is that a minor issue? (eg: https://x.com/martinbroek/status/1938155196984549856)
***
#Australian
#container company Royal Wolf lands $51 million defence contract to
deliver 300 personnel restraint modules meant to safely transport
crews between locations as part of military operations.
https://www.thedcn.com.au/news/royal-wolf-lands-multi-million-dollar-defence-contract
#harbour #Brisbane
"While life in Gaza is being obliterated & the West Bank is under assault," report shows "why Israel's genocide continues: because it is lucrative for many," like corporations "financially bound to Israel's Apartheid & militarism."
- https://ca.news.yahoo.com/lucrative-business-deals-help-sustain-101912280.html
- https://www.un.org/unispal/document/a-hrc-59-23-from-economy-of-occupation-to-economy-of-genocide-report-special-rapporteur-francesca-albanese-palestine-2025/
***
Which foreign
arms manufacturers are already operating in #Ukraine?
Companies from #Germany, the #Czech Republic, #Canada, and #Turkey have already invested in local manufacturing. Other countries are currently in the planning stage.
https://ubn.news/which-foreign-arms-manufacturers-are-already-operating-in-ukraine/
***
Arms to
hug,
arms to kill and
arms to commit genocide
An important part of the problem:
EU Buying #Weapons Tested on
#Palestinians
Israel sees an opportunity in a Europe rearming because of the supposed threat of Russia, writes Jessica Buxbaum. https://consortiumnews.com/2025/07/01/eu-buying-weapons-tested-on-palestine/
July 1
***
De NAVO wekt
de verwachting dat ze voor veiligheid zorgt. Maar met de VS sleept ze
ons mee naar chaos en gevaar. Het is een gedwongen huwelijk met een
roekeloze, machtsbeluste mogendheid die zich niks van internationale
verdragen aantrekt.’
https://www.bnnvara.nl/joop/artikelen/waarom-laten-we-ons-meeslepen-in-de-ramkoers-van-trump
***
European
states continue to impose substantial barriers to transparency in
arms transfers. This has significant implications for international
efforts to enhance accountability in the global arms trade,
especially as defence spending escalates worldwide.
https://www.asser.nl/about-the-asser-institute/news/new-report-the-transparency-deficit-in-european-arms-exports/
The secrecy of
European arms sales, a practice justified in the name of national
security.
A report reveals that a lack of
information on arms exports hinders access to justice and fuels
doubts about the role played by arms-producing powers in conflicts.
https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-07-10/the-secrecy-of-european-arms-sales-a-practice-justified-in-the-name-of-national-security.html
***
Military production
requires continuously high levels of investment to maintain
technological progress. This sucks public investment from other parts
of the economy.
Unlike defence, where the repurposing of civilian technologies for military uses carries a cost to society, many green investments involve beneficial substitutions that reduce the cost of a green transition.
...the current drive for
deterrence-based military spending carries with it a huge cost for
society that could ultimately prove economically wasteful
and geopolitically
destabilising.
https://theconversation.com/nato-leaders-pledge-increased-defence-spending-is-this-really-the-price-for-peace-and-prosperity-255989
***
#European
leaders’ responses to the recent Israeli and #US attacks against
#Iranian #nuclear facilities have been striking for both their muted
tone and their apparent acceptance of violations of international
law.
https://www.sipri.org/commentary/essay/2025/europe-should-help-repair-damage-non-proliferation-and-international-law-attacks-iran
#SIPRI #NPV
***
A
comprehensive guide to #sanctions in the #Netherlands amid
legislative overhaul and increased enforcement efforts.
https://globalinvestigationsreview.com/guide/the-guide-sanctions/sixth-edition/article/comprehensive-guide-sanctions-in-the-netherlands-amid-legislative-overhaul-and-increased-enforcement-efforts#footnote-001
***
The mix
of #drones and #AI is now becoming more prevalent in new designs
proposed by European manufacturers e.g. from Czechia, Finland and
Germany.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/06/30/european-drone-builders-tinker-with-ai-in-navigation-and-targeting/
