woensdag 31 december 2025

My tweets for December 2025

Latest on top (updated regularly):
(https://twitter.com/martinbroek voor dagelijks vredesnieuws zie hier)

December 31

***
More US/#Boeing support for #genocide.

The U.S. government is slated to allocate $8.6 billion to Boeing for the sale of 25 F-15 fighter jets to #Israel, the Pentagon announced on Monday.

https://www.war.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/4368246/

https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/2025/12/30/us-taps-boeing-to-build-f-15s-for-israel-under-86-billion-contract/

***
While it was claimed by China Beijing mediated in ending the India-Pakistan May 2025 conflict, Indian officials have said China used the conflict to prove the capabilities of its weapon systems. Pakistan’s military imports are for more than 81% from China. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/after-trump-china-claims-mediation-in-india-pakistan-tensions-people-in-new-delhi-react-to-bizarre-remark-101767153020772.html

December 30

***
Poland has selected Sweden’s Saab for its next-generation submarine program, which involves the acquisition of 3 submarines.
Korean companies failed to secure the bid.
Why and how? What does it mean for the Canadian submarine competition. 

Korean military exports surged from
$2.9bn in 2020 to
$7.3bn in 2021 and
$17.3bn in 2022, before falling sharply to
$13.5bn in 2023 and
$9.6bn in 2024.

https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-12-30/opinion/columns/Poland-submarine-bid-loss-offers-lessons-for-Koreas-defense-industry/2488520

***
German arms exports to Turkey reached €726 million in 2025, the highest level since 1999, according to data from the German Federal Ministry of Economics, with the Merz government's approval of #Eurofighter sales marking a policy shift.
https://www.turkiyetoday.com/world/german-arms-exports-to-turkiye-hit-highest-level-in-26-years-at-726m-3212113

***
Germany’s weapons export permits to Ukraine drop from €8.15 billion to €1.14 billion in 2025.

https://euromaidanpress.com/2025/12/29/germanys-weapons-export-permits-to-ukraine-drop-from-e8-15-billion-to-e1-14-billion-in-2025/

German government says support for Ukraine not decreasing and explains how to look at the figures. https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-defense/4074716-german-government-says-support-for-ukraine-not-decreasing.html

***
Meer of minder militaire steun aan het Oekraïense leger. Terwijl de militaire uitgaven overal in Europa fors worden opgeschroefd, weet links maar moeilijk tot een uniform antwoord te komen. Jacobin ging in gesprek met vier activistische vredesexperts.
https://jacobin.nl/links-en-de-oorlog-in-oekraine-een-gesprek/

December 29

***
The Dutch armed forces have signed a framework agreement with Thales Nederland to comprehensively modernize its tactical communications equipment. The core of the agreement is the delivery of a new SOTAS infrastructure.
https://militaeraktuell.at/en/netherlands-relies-on-thales-for-tactical-communication/

This SOTAS? https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2018/01/shoot-on-yemen.html

***
#Spanish government uses the so-called "national interest" exception to the arms embargo on #Israel. The cabinet approved this week the acquisition of Israeli-made technological components by #Airbus for A400M, A330 MRTT, C295, and Sirtap.
https://en.ara.cat/politics/the-spanish-government-uses-the-exception-to-the-arms-embargo-israel-and-authorizes-transfer-of-them_1_5604287.html

December 27

***
Rumours circulate of a #Saudi-Emirati proxy drone war in the Sudan. The KSA supports the Sudanese Armed Forces & #drones are provided by the #UAE (and others) to the #RSF). [Paywall] https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/64130

On the proxy ware see eg. this: https://www.democracynow.org/2025/12/18/khalid_mustafa_medani_sudan

December 26

***
The introduction of the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) program is undermining not only Korea's growing foothold in Poland — the largest single country buyer of Korean weapons, with combined deals estimated at $23 billion since 2022 — but also in other European and Atlantic military markets.
 
The € 150 billion ($177 billion) initiative, announced in March, provides low-interest loans to member nations alike to purchase military equipment and jointly strengthen Europe's defence capabilities, but with an asterisk: a priority on European-made products. 
https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-12-26/business/industry/Europe-was-Kdefenses-promised-land-A-new-EU-initiative-threatens-that/2485683

***
Retweet @marineschepen: Marineschip VS vuurt Tomahawks op IS-doelen in Nigeria. Tegelijk is er kritiek op gebruik van Tomahawks in relatie tot laag productietempo. Meer: https://marineschepen.nl/nieuws/Amerikaans-schip-vuurt-op-IS-doelen-in-Nigeria-261225.html

***
South Korea's defence procurement agency is accelerating efforts to develop & certify military-grade semiconductors, warning that reliance on foreign supply chains for critical chips could delay weapons deployment & weaken competitiveness in arms exports.
https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2025/12/25/defense-critical-chip-warning-foreign-supply-chain/1161766666805/

***
Self defence was always a farce now it seems to be forgotten.

#Japan’s Cabinet on Friday approved a record military budget plan exceeding $58 bn for the coming fiscal year, accelerating a military buildup that includes cruise missiles and unmanned systems.

https://www.newsweek.com/japan-approves-record-defense-budget-amid-china-tensions-11270887

December 25

***
Japanese citizens held rallies on Thursday outside the headquarters of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the National Diet building in Tokyo, protesting Japan's weapons export policies.
https://www.bastillepost.com/global/article/5483113-japanese-protesters-rally-against-arms-exports-in-tokyo

***

Retweet @atarnetwork: Fences and fire: How Europe’s border regime advanced the world’s largest humanitarian crisis

In 2024, Swedish arms exports to the UAE rose to over 6 billion SEK, making it Sweden’s largest customer, even after a UN report confirmed the UAE was arming the RSF and despite its record of illicit transfers. An investigation by Swedish Radio EKOT on 8 December 2025 found evidence that Swedish developed AT 4 anti tank weapons have appeared in Sudan’s war. While Kerstin Bergeå of the Swedish Peace and Arbitration Society called this “a major disgrace and scandal”, her claim that the arms trade is impossible to control weakens accountability. UN experts, Amnesty International and SIPRI have repeatedly documented deliberate re exports and embargo violations by intermediaries such as the UAE.

Najlaa Eltom shows how international actors have worsened the crisis. Europe’s outsourcing of border control to the RSF strengthened the militia now driving displacement and economic disruption, while supply chains and trade routes are increasingly weaponized, with civilians paying the price

For the full report, see Atar issue 42 :
https://atarnetwork.com/?p=19041

***
THE #Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission has broadened its investigation into alleged #corruption in #military #procurement, intensifying scrutiny of defence contracts and financial transactions linked to projects awarded over the past three years.
https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/117401/macc-widens-military-procurement-corruption-probe-as-financial-trails-come-under-scrutiny

Retweet @dwnews; A Malaysian court has found Najib Razak guilty on multiple charges of abuse of power and money laundering tied to the multibillion-dollar looting of the Malaysia Development Berhad, better known as the 1MDB investment fund. https://www.dw.com/en/malaysia-ex-pm-najib-found-guilty-on-new-1mdb-charges/a-75307547

***
Saudi Arabian Military Industries #SAMI is in talks with #Naval_Group to establish a research and development (R&D) center in Dammam focused on underwater warfare systems. [Paywall]
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/64127

***

US’s profit formula looks simple: earn from war while talking about peace. That is why “hellish sanctions”, under both Biden & Trump, are constantly postponed...the so-called anti-escalation model of US behaviour in reality only encourages the aggressor. https://eutoday.net/peace-as-a-business-us-europe/

***
The intervention in Afghanistan was a failure. Afterwards the negative consequences continue.

Abandoned US weapons in Afghanistan are reaching terrorist groups. Taliban-backed militants use modern arms for cross-border attacks in Pakistan.
https://minutemirror.com.pk/us-arms-in-afghanistan-fuel-pak-terrorism-experts-by-yoannis-gherbawi-479100/

***
Israel plans to invest 350 billion shekels ($110billion) over the next decade to make its domestic arms industry more independent, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Wednesday, according to Israeli media reports.
https://www.omanobserver.om/article/1181653/world/region/report-israel-to-spend-110-billion-on-arms-over-next-decade

December 24

***
Are there still European nations considering to buy #Lockheed F-35 fighters, #Boeing Apache heli's, or AMRAAM-missiles, Patriot missile systems, and Tomahawk cruise missiles @ #RTX, formerly Raytheon. No it would be foolish to buy from the arsenals of one of your major enemies.

Yes the buys continue even in Denmark, the country threaten by Washington.
Denmark plans to sign major deal for AMRAAM air-to-air missiles for fighters, air defence systems, estimated value of up to $951 million.
https://defence-industry.eu/denmark-plans-to-sign-major-deal-for-amraam-air-to-air-missiles-for-fighters-air-defence-systems/

***
Since late November, Berlin licensed arms exports to Israel valued €54m & extended its contract for the Arrow 3 missile system by $3.1bn.

Why not be honest? As long as Germany benefits from the alliance with Israel, nothing will be done to jeopardize it. https://taz.de/Israels-genehmigt-illegale-Siedlungen/!6140678/

***
Veiligheid? Voor wie?

Bewoners van 2 huizen en 6 bedrijven moeten plaatsmaken voor de F-35-gevechtsvliegtuigen die vanaf #Lelystad Airport gaan vliegen. De overheid koopt de gedupeerden uit, want zij MOETEN vertrekken.
https://www.ad.nl/lelystad/hoe-komst-van-f-35s-naar-lelystad-voor-onrust-zorgt-bij-omwonenden-boeren-bedrijven-en-vogelwachters~aef56b03/

***
#UAE’s #EDGE Group plans next steps of #expansion beyond Middle East

CEO Hamad Al Marar mused that EDGE could make an appearance at a future Association of the US Army exposition.
https://breakingdefense.com/2025/12/uaes-edge-group-plans-next-steps-of-expansion-beyond-middle-east/

***
Faster, more agile and with less control

US Rheinmetall says it applies a private-investment model to defence manufacturing as the US Army calls for faster, more agile industrial delivery. The company says this approach mirrors Silicon Valley practices.
https://defence-industry.eu/american-rheinmetall-backs-private-investment-model-to-accelerate-us-defence-manufacturing/

December 23

***
#Russia’s government threatens defence manufacturers with jail time if they don’t meet contractual obligations.

#Rostec denies any assertions of Russian defence industry degradation, calls them propaganda myths.
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/why-boss-russian-defence-factory-set-fire-himself-red-square-2025-12-23/

***
Sheffield Elbit supplier blockaded.

#Sheffield group Stop Arming Israel says its activists today #blockaded the Ametek-Land factory in Dronfield, protesting the company’s supply of infrared temperature measurement components to Israeli arms company #Elbit. https://freedomnews.org.uk/2025/12/22/sheffield-elbit-supplier-blockaded/

***
At the cost of?

The European Defence Fund #EDF plans to allocate €1 billion in funding for defense R&D in 2026, with the biggest chunk of money budgeted for work on air and missile defense, including countering hypersonic glide vehicles. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/12/18/eu-flagship-defense-rd-in-2026-covers-hypersonic-defense-future-tank/

***
Indonesia former client for Dutch warships buys Multipurpose Combat Ship, the KRI Prabu Siliwangi-321 made by Fincantieri. This marks the completion of a two-ship program that significantly expands Indonesia’s surface naval fleet.
https://www.marinelink.com/news/fincantieri-delivers-indonesian-navy-533796

***
Next EU member to fall for the weapons from the industry making genocide possible?

#ethics #HumanRights #Peace #Security #Solidarity?

Israel’s #Elbit expects #Greek PULS artillery deal.
https://breakingdefense.com/2025/12/israels-elbit-expects-greek-puls-artillery-deal/

Israel, Greece, and Cyprus Agree to Deepen Military and Security Ties at Jerusalem Summit https://greekcitytimes.com/2025/12/23/israel-greece-cyprus-deepen-military-security-ties-jerusalem-summit-2025/

***
International order?

Pakistan seals $ 4bn JF-17 fighter export deal with Libya. Embargo? It isn't taken seriously by the Pakistani military (with Beijing backing), others also... https://dialoguepakistan.com/en/pakistan/pakistan-seals-major-arms-export-deal-with-libya https://reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/pakistan-strikes-4-billion-deal-sell-weapons-libyan-force-officials-say-2025-12-22/

Texts on embargo: https://www.sipri.org/databases/embargoes/un_arms_embargoes/libya/libya_2011

December 22

***
George Yeo on superpower ‘headaches’

While the #US can deny #China Boeing jets, Pratt & Whitney and GE engines, engine spare parts, there is no certainty the Europeans will follow with an embargo on #Airbus aeroplanes and #RollsRoyce engines.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3337074/george-yeo-superpower-headaches-and-why-us-dollar-could-crack

***

#Macron visits major arms buyer #UAE. The Emirates are under scrutiny for involvement in the conflicts in Yemen and, especially, #Sudan. It is unclear whether this issue will be discussed between Emmanuel Macron and Mohammed bin Zayed during their meeting. https://www.rfi.fr/en/international/20251221-macron-in-uae-for-bilateral-talks-christmas-with-french-troops-drug-trafficking-weapons-rsf-sudan

***
War what is it good for

"Israeli arms companies made record-high revenues last year [2024], as weapons manufacturers market some of their products as 'battle-tested' after their deployment in Israel's genocidal war against the Palestinian people in Gaza."
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/12/21/israeli-arms-companies-revenues-soared-in-2024

***
#Corruption in the #military - the defenders against evil - seems to be everywhere, NATO, Damen, USN, here it concerns #India.

CBI arrests Lt. Colonel and a private individual in bribery case linked to the Indian MoD. Further probe underway.
https://www.defencewatch.in/ministry-of-defence/cbi-arrests-lt-colonel-and-a-private-individual-in-bribery-case-linked-to-ministry-of-defence

***
Among 'friends'

#Leonardo has warned the #UK government that it may be forced to shut down its helicopter manufacturing in the UK if it fails to secure a £1 bn MoD contract, this would threaten the future of the UK’s last remaining #helicopter factory. https://bmmagazine.co.uk/news/leonardo-uk-helicopter-factory-risk-puma-contract/

December 21

***
Amnesty International on Friday called on governments to prevent a German-owned Portuguese-flagged cargo ship the Holger G carrying military components bound for Israel from docking at their ports. (Tomoros in Egypt:
https://www.vesselfinder.com/vessels/details/9995894). https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/amnesty-calls-for-blocking-german-owned-ship-carrying-arms-components-bound-for-israel/3775778

Völkerrechtswidriger Transport nach Israel

Amnesty International ruft die deutsche Reederei Gerdes dazu auf, ihr Frachtschiff Holger G zu stoppen, das Rüstungsgüter nach Israel bringt. https://taz.de/Ruestungstransport-nach-Israel/!6140662/

Ship left Israel this morning (24/12). Is now en route to Alexandria, Egypt.

***
De verstandhouding tussen Washington en #Marokko vertaalt zich steeds duidelijker naar het militaire domein. In de periode 2020-2024 is Marokko uitgegroeid tot een van de 3 belangrijkste in de wereld ontvangers van surplus materieel uit het #VS-arsenaal.
https://www.bladna.nl/pentagon-bevestigt-marokko-topconsument-amerikaanse-wapenvoorraad,67398.html


December 20

***
too little, too late

Concerns raised about Dutch arms exports to Pakistan, FA Minister van Weel clarified that the shipments were approved before recent developments. He said the exports involved earlier orders for 2 ships intended for use on the high seas.

He underlines the strict Dutch arms export policy as if the conflict between Karachi and Delhi started this year and Pakistan isn't a long time and close ally of Beijing: "In all weapon exports that we do, we always adhere to strict rules, and we always take the end use and the end user into serious account." https://www.latestly.com/agency-news/world-news-dutch-fm-reaffirms-counter-terror-cooperation-with-india-amid-arms-export-concerns-7245242.html/amp

I've written regularry on the Dutch arms trade to Pakistan (e.g. https://stopwapenhandel.org/netherland-is-pakistans-3rd-source-of-arms/ & https://stopwapenhandel.org/pakblog/), it just continued. A new market in India wakens The Haque, it seems. The mouth is where the money is.

***
#USN officials said about the new #Damen based LST-100 landing ships that the off-the-shelf selection enables the rapid deployment of island-hopping warships for the Marines, while lowering costs and reducing production risks.
https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/dec/19/navys-new-frigates-based-existing-coast-guard-warships/

***
'n Verdekte rechtse:

‘Politici denken soms dat iets zo belangrijk en zo strategisch is dat ze snel moeten handelen. Maar als iets belangrijk en strategisch is, moet je juist heel goed nadenken. Hoe strategischer iets is, des te meer moet je nadenken.’ https://fd.nl/bedrijfsleven/1580257/asml-ceo-christophe-fouquet-politici-probeer-niet-de-business-voor-ons-te-runnen

***
Ministry of National Defense pavilion at Algerian Production Fair (FPA) showcases latest of its military industry, including combat vehicles, drones, and small arms plike a semi-automatic shotgun as a flagship product.
https://www.horizons.dz/?p=408801&lang=en

***
Security is far from equally distributed
by engine of the EU.

An arms deal worth $3.1 bn will see Tel Aviv supply Berlin with Arrow 3 missile systems, signalling a deepening of ties between Germany and Israel.
https://maghrebi.org/2025/12/19/germany-okays-arms-deal-with-israel-gaza-violence-continues/

December 19

***
They get more nuts by the day

Republicans ask Trump administration to evaluate whether to strike Spain with counter measures for boycotting the country committing genocide on Gaza.
https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tenney-leads-letter-urging-treasury-review-spains-israel-boycott

***
Pirates of the Caraibean
Near-Miss Incidents Raise Safety Concerns

#Curaçao (with Nld & Aruba) intends to file a formal complaint over alleged violations of Caribbean #airspace by US military planes. https://www.curacaochronicle.com/post/world/curacao-aruba-and-the-netherlands-to-file-formal-complaint-with-us-over-airspace-violations

***
Spain MoD #DGAM orders 100 Airbus helicopters. The contracts, which represent the largest helicopter purchase by the DGAM, include four different models for the three branches of the Spanish Armed Forces.
https://avitrader.com/2025/12/19/spain-orders-100-airbus-helicopters-in-major-defence-upgrade/

***
#Leonardo SPA has entered into a strategic partnership with #KNDS Deutschland to co-develop a mobile artillery system. A Letter of Intent was signed in tax haven #Amsterdam, marking a significant milestone in defense collaboration.
https://www.leonardo.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/16-12-2025-knds-and-leonardo-agree-on-joint-product-development

***
Accused of corruption but Dutch Damen still succesful on the Western military market. Austal has also been selected by the Australian government to build 8 heavy landing craft based on the Dutch Damen LST100 design at Henderson (https://www.austal.com/henderson-shipyard).
https://breakingdefense.com/2025/12/austal-defence-australia-awarded-681-million-landing-craft-contract-down-under/

***
Are the kamikaze drones coming?

No, they are already there.

Rheinmetall secures NATO contract for HERO loitering munition systems https://www.smgconferences.com/editors-corner/6394-news--rheinmetall-secures-nato-contract-for-hero-loitering-munition-systems

Germany to establish dedicated loitering munition units https://www.smgconferences.com/editors-corner/6397-news--germany-to-establish-dedicated-loitering-munition-units

***
Tactical report on #Egypt which has reportedly been involved in discussions with #Dutch #Damen Shipyards Group on the feasibility of assembling an export-oriented Fast Attack Craft (FAC) variant in Egypt since April 2025. [Paywall]
https://www.tacticalreport.com/daily/64113

December 18

***
#Airbus announced Wednesday that it has won a €30-million deal from the #EU Maritime Safety Agency (#EMSA) to provide remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS, #drones) services for multipurpose maritime surveillance with the Flexrotor drone.
https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2025-12-european-maritime-safety-agency-selects-airbus-flexrotor-drone-for

***
Is the European fighter jet project failing? The #FCAS air combat system was planned as the future of the German Air Force. But the project is in danger of failing. What are the reasons for this, and what would the consequences be?
https://www.zeit.de/politik/ausland/2025-12/future-combat-air-system-projekt-ziele-streit-faq-gxe

***
German churches criticize arms exports. Particular focus: arms deliveries to Israel and India.
https://taz.de/Bericht-zu-Ruestungspolitik/!6138935/

Ukraine was only the 4th largest recipient of European arms, behind Saudi Arabia, India & UAE. German companies supplied arms worth a €3.2 billion. These are the highest figures for German arms exports ever to states that are neither EU nor NATO members. https://taz.de/Deutsche-Ruestungsexporte-Im-Schatten-der-Ukraine-Hilfen-geht-eine-andere-Zahl-unter/!6139310/

Arms export control?

#German arms export are reviewed individually. When asked, Reiche (#CDU) said she would ensure that #Israel receives all it needs. "The reviews are important, but ultimately Israel must be able to rely on us."
https://www.welt.de/wirtschaft/article6942cfef92f621656f791913/waffenlieferungen-am-ende-muss-sich-israel-auf-uns-verlassen-koennen-fordert-reiche.html

***
‘Defensie heeft de Tweede Kamer niet geïnformeerd over de aanschaf van speciale vizieren om drones mee neer te schieten. Kamerlid Kati Piri (GroenLinks-PvdA) wil opheldering.’ Zie
https://archive.ph/PPzYX#selection-1223.3-1230.1

***
Belangrijke column. Rechteloosheid blijkbaar norm.

Zonder proces zijn Albanese sancties opgelegd, die normaal tegen oorlogsmisdadigers worden ingezet. Haar bankrekeningen zijn bevroren; banken in haar thuisland Italië durven haar geen rekening te geven.
https://www.ad.nl/binnenland/pesten-en-intimidatie-hebben-in-alle-situaties-een-ding-gemeen-het-ontmenselijkt~a102b520/

***

Finish #ICEYE has signed contracts with the armed forces of Poland, Portugal, the #Netherlands and Finland. All four will have their own deployed capabilities within the next 12 months, with multiple satellites in orbit before 2028.

ICEYE eyes a #satellite fleet large enough to enable ‘tactical’ ground operations without relying on US data. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/11/17/iceye-sees-role-as-europes-defense-space-intelligence-linchpin/

#Rheinmetall partner #Iceye secures fresh funding

Europe is investing heavily in defence – with space systems a big area of focus. Finnish satellite startup Iceye has recently completed a new funding round to speed up growth. https://www.boersen-zeitung.de/english/rheinmetall-partner-iceye-secures-fresh-funding

***
Arming the Middle East

Qatar has held talks with the US about purchasing advanced F35s, according to an Israeli media report. If the talks progress, Qatar would join the Saudi's & Turkey in seeking to acquire the F-35, currently operated only by Israel.
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/qatar-in-talks-us-about-buying-f-35s-warplanes-report

***
Fuck arms control.
Get rid of international treaties.
Make the world more unsafe for all.

Poland to start producing anti-personnel mines to lay along eastern border.
Noticed, but not opposed.
https://www.globalbankingandfinance.com/poland-defence-mines/

***
Defenture uit Tiel zal 49 tactische militaire voertuigen leveren aan het Duitse leger. Elk kan 4 militairen vervoeren. Ze zijn bewapend om vijandige drones uit te schakelen, uitgerust met tech voor communicatie, verkenning en inlichtingenverzameling.
https://fd.nl/bedrijfsleven/1580827/defensiebedrijf-defenturekrijgt-grote-order-uit-duitse-mega-investeringspot-voor-krijgsmacht

***
#BAE Systems halts civil aircraft support in #Sudan. This aligns with its strategic focus on military projects as NATO members increase spending. Humanitarian operators warn the timing and manner how has had devastating consequences for aid delivery.
https://www.sudanspost.com/british-defence-giant-halts-aircraft-support-disrupts-aid-flights-to-south-sudan/

December 17

***
Risk reduction is urgently needed amid rising tensions in Northern Europe (SIPRI Essay)

"(...) a Russian invasion of a NATO member appears highly improbable. Unlike during the cold war, the regional military balance overwhelmingly favours NATO with its combined conventional military capabilities and defence spending far exceeding those of Russia—even if the USA is excluded from the comparison.” https://www.sipri.org/commentary/essay/2025/risk-reduction-urgently-needed-amid-rising-tensions-northern-europe

***
The Mid-Ulster Palestine Solidarity Campaign #MUPSC group staged a protest as Councillors were in a meeting over #Moyola Precision Engineering making and selling F-35 fighter parts to the Israel which used these planes to bomb the Gaza Strip.
https://www.impartialreporter.com/news/25700911.dup-councillor-addressed-online-row-f-35-parts/

***
A delegation from Dutch #Damen Shipyards, is expected in #Senegal in the coming days to finalize negotiations with the government for the reopening of the #Dakar shipyards. Discussions between the two parties are currently stalled, according to Libération.
https://www.seneweb.com/en/news/Economie/chantiers-navals-de-dakar-entre-letat-et-les-hollandais-les-negociations-coincent_n_477591.html

***
A recent study published in The Lancet (
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(25)00189-5/fulltext), found “a significant causal association between #sanctions and increased mortality.” The study tracked the effects of US sanctions on age-specific mortality rates for 152 countries 1971-21. https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/u-s-sanctions-kill-as-much-as-war/

***
How nuclear submarines could pave the way for nuclear weapons in South Korea .
https://thebulletin.org/2025/12/how-nuclear-submarines-could-pave-the-way-for-nuclear-weapons-in-south-korea/

***
Oekraïne heeft met Sub Sea Baby-onderwaterdrones de Russische onderzeeër 636.3 “Varshavyanka” (Kilo-klasse) getroffen in Novorossiejsk, meldt de Oekraïense veiligheidsdienst SBU. Het is de eerste keer dat zo’n aanval heeft plaatsgevonden.
https://www.msn.com/nl-nl/nieuws/buitenland/oekra%C3%AFne-treft-voor-het-eerst-een-russische-onderzee%C3%ABr-met-onderwaterdrones/ar-AA1SqJrh

***
Major increase in supply to global arms bazaar looming.

Japan has long had some of the world’s strictest restrictions on arms exports. But things are set to change radically — as early as next spring.
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/17/japan/politics/japan-arms-exports-analysis/

Japanese peace groups and some key political figures, held a meeting in Tokyo to oppose the lifting of restrictions on lethal weapon exports and submitted a petition signed by tens of thousands of people to the Diet against lifting the arms export ban. https://www.bastillepost.com/global/article/5458228-japanese-activists-voice-strong-opposition-against-countrys-attempt-to-lift-arms-export-ban

December 16

***
For some the NH90 is such a failure (https://www.defenceconnect.com.au/air/17180-another-blow-to-nh90-helicopter-program-after-norway-reaches-exit-settlement / https://www.twz.com/australias-nh90-helicopter-nightmare-is-finally-ending) acquisitions are cancelled. But some still buy them like the Netherlands https://www.airforce-technology.com/news/nhindustries-netherlands-nh90-helicopters/ (to help Fokker?) and Greece (https://euro-sd.com/2025/12/major-news/48238/greek-nh90-support-contract/).

***
Officially, #Siemens claims to have nothing to do with the arms industry. But WELT investigations show that the company does indeed supply the sector, including #heinmetall, and not just with electrical sockets. What's with all the secrecy?
https://www.welt.de/wirtschaft/plus693441aa074aff6076811782/geheime-deals-mit-rheinmetall-das-steckt-hinter-siemens-seltsamer-verschwiegenheit.html

***
NYT Editorial Board on Trump's short-sighted foreign policy: blowing up boats at sea & not standing with Ukraine against Russia's invasion, but a course of moral equivalence between both while seeking war profits by arms sales and mineral deals.
https://thehill.com/homenews/media/5649266-nyt-editorial-trump-foreign-policy/

***
Saudi Arabia is a close partner of the US but has some of the closest ties to China among the GCC's members, in areas ranging from oil, technology and arms sales.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3336508/china-and-saudi-arabia-pledge-deeper-hi-tech-cooperation-despite-us-pressure

***
Retweet @MichalSmetana3:
553 pages, 10 researchers, 2 institutions. Happy to share the results of our @prcprague @SWPBerlin joint research project investigating nuclear signaling in the Russo-Ukrainian war. The full report is available here: https://prcprague.cz/news/2025/12/14/new-working-paper-chronological-tracing-of-nuclear-signalling-between-russia-and-nato-during-the-war-in-ukraine

***
On Monday, MEPs from four committees approved new proposals to accelerate defence investment and improve the EU’s responsiveness in the face of security challenges.
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/nl/press-room/20251215IPR32218/meps-back-new-measures-to-strengthen-europe-s-defence-readiness

Listen?

Civil society to MEPs: Move the Money from War to Peace! https://enaat.org/2025/11/21/civil-society-to-meps-move-the-money-from-war-to-peace/

***
FD: neens wil iedereen een Nederlandse Darpa, maar hoe tuig je zo’n innovatieprogramma op?
https://fd.nl/tech-en-innovatie/1580445/een-nederlands-darpa-programma-animo-genoeg-maar-hoe-tuig-je-het-op

Is dat zo? Wil jij ook een #DARPA? Weten wat het is? Tien jaar geleden besprak ik het boek 'The Pentagon's Brain' van Annie Jacobsen, https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2015/11/de-mens-als-wapen.html

December 15

***
2026: global militarism versus the anti-war movement – weekly briefing. Lindsey German (of the UK Stop the War Coalition) on incipient warmongering and how we prepare for our fightback.
https://www.counterfire.org/article/2026-global-militarism-versus-the-anti-war-movement-weekly-briefing/

December 13

***
Naval Group has renewed its in-service support contract with the Egyptian Navy, ensuring maintenance and operational readiness for seven key vessels over the next five years.
https://thedefensepost.com/2025/12/10/naval-group-egyptian-navy-support/

***
V-22 Osprey at risk of more ‘catastrophic’ mishaps, Navy review finds.
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2025/12/12/v-22-osprey-at-risk-of-more-catastrophic-mishaps-navy-review-finds/

The failing plane is a major subject discussed in The trillion dollar war machine by @BenFreemanDC & @WilliamHartung
https://quincyinst.org/collection/the-trillion-dollar-war-machine/

Mijn bespreking?https://broekfoto.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-trillion-dollar-war-machine.html

GAO: Services aren’t sharing information on longtime Osprey problems. https://www.defensenews.com/air/2025/12/12/gao-services-arent-sharing-information-on-longtime-osprey-problems/

December 12

***
The EU ReArm Plan is likely to permanently em
bed a paradigm of threat within the EU’s identity. For the Union, that would largely mean surrendering peace – even without war. https://edseq.lexxion.eu/data/article/20461/pdf/edseq_2026_01-005.pdf

***
Theon gaat nog 'ns 100.000 nachtkijkers leveren aan de Duitse krijgsmacht (België koopt er nog eens 4.000.) Het is deel van een herzien contract tussen OCCAR en het consortium van Griekse Theon en Duitse Hensoldt.
https://www.beursduivel.be/Nieuws/845687/Duitse-leger-bestelt-nog-eens-100000-nachtkijkers-bij-Theon.aspx

***
#Anduril partners with #UAE bomb maker accused of arming #Sudan’s war: the EDGE Group. Anduril calls itself an “arsenal of democracy.” So why is it partnering with an authoritarian monarchy to build drones?
https://theintercept.com/2025/12/11/anduril-uae-weapons-edge-sudan/

***
#Bangladesh has signed a Letter of Intent to start talks to purchase the #Eurofighter jet #EFA - a deal which would make it the first nation outside of Europe and the Middle East to buy the fighter.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/12/10/bangladesh-signs-up-for-eurofighters-in-first-pick-of-western-warplane/

***
The close relationship between US President #Trump and Turkish President #Erdogan has brought the countries closer to resolving issues that led to Turkey being kicked off the #F35 fighter jet program, the United States ambassador to Ankara said Nov. 10.
https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/12/11/trump-erdogan-ties-are-propelling-f-35-talks-with-once-banned-partner/

***
Interview met Mark Akkerman (Stop Wapenhandel). Hij is 'n levenlang actief in antimilitaristische initiatieven en is anarchist. Antimilitarisme was vanouds 'n belangrijk deel van anarchistische bewegingen. Momenteel is daar een merkwaardige impasse te zien.
https://www.globalinfo.nl/achtergrond/de-antimilitaristische-crisis-in-de-anarchistische-beweging/

***
@SecGenNATO missed this?

#Danish intelligence classifies #Trump’s USA as a security risk. Denmark sounds the alarm about the US’s increasingly antagonistic posture toward #Europe.
https://www.politico.eu/article/danish-intelligence-classifies-donald-trump-america-as-security-risk/

***
In Oost-#Congo heeft de door #Rwanda gesteunde rebellenbeweging #M23 haar deze week de havenstad Uvira aan het Tanganyikameer veroverd; lokale autoriteiten melden dat in en rond Uvira en Bukavu minstens 413 burgers zijn gedood door projectielen.
https://www.headliner.nl/item/al-zeker-400-burgers-gedood-sinds-m23-rebellen-congolese-stad-uvira-innamen-vrt-171028

***
Partners in mega-crime

India and Israel Double Down on their ‘Strategic Partnership’. A partnership designed to strengthen state control of local populations.
https://kashmirtimes.com/opinion/comment-articles/india-and-israel-double-down-on-their-strategic-partnership

December 11

***
Uganda has violated a United Nations arms embargo by deploying troops to South Sudan to support the government, according to a report published Wednesday by UN experts.

December 10

***
Chip machine manufacturer #ASML sold a vital component in 2024 to a military research institute of one of #China’s leading military companies. This was revealed by an investigation by #Dutch news programme Nieuwsuur, based on confidential info from ASML.
https://eindhovennews.com/news/2025/12/asml-supplied-essential-component-to-chinese-military-research-centre/

***
German defence company Renk Test System (RTS, a subsidiary of Renk Group), will supply a suite of test systems for military vehicles tot the Dutch Army.
The company has partnered with
#VanHalteren Technologies in the Netherlands, which will act as subcontractor for on-site services and construction support throughout the project.
https://www.army-technology.com/news/rts-netherlands-army-vehicles/

***
#Airbus C-295 military transport aircraft is being manufactured by #TATA at its Vadodara Plant in Gujarat. TATA Advanced Systems Ltd has strategically positioned itself as a frontrunner for the #Indian Air Force's multi-bn-dollar transport plane #MTA buy.
https://www.indiandefensenews.in/2025/12/tata-advances-position-for-indian-air.html

***
De Vlaamse uitvoer van militaire goederen bedroeg in de eerste9 maanden van 2025 €263m: een flinke toename. ‘Net omdat defensie economisch belangrijker wordt, moet Vlaanderen nu extra waken over de veiligheidsaspecten’, aldus het Vlaams Vredesinstituut. https://www.demorgen.be/nieuws/vlaamse-wapenexport-stijgt-aanzienlijk-hoe-meer-je-investeert-hoe-aandachtiger-je-moet-zijn~b2d169f9/

De Vlaamse regering werkt in stilte aan een versoepeling van de regels voor wapenhandel. Vredesactie waarschuwt dat Vlaanderen zo nog dieper dreigt weg te zakken in de medeplichtigheid aan oorlogsmisdaden. https://www.dewereldmorgen.be/artikel/2025/12/11/vlaanderen-zet-deur-verder-open-voor-wapens-naar-oorlogszuchtige-regimes

***
#Myanmar received Russian anti-drone equipment & a batch of Orlan-30 spy drones. According to Ukrainian intel, which cooperates with local resistance, the material is already deployed against armed opposition & heralds the arrival of kamikaze drones. [PW] https://www.intelligenceonline.com/asia-pacific/2025/12/10/moscow-quietly-bolsters-myanmar-junta-s-drone-warfare-capabilities,110574451-art

December 9

***
Not genocide but corruptions is the reason:

NATO suspended #Elbit amid a fast-growing corruption. The NATO Support & Procurement Agency #NSPA, managing mil. equipment purchases for NATO and its member nations, issued the suspension.

***
UK motion condemns the gov’s decision to issue an official invitation to the UAE to attend the DSEI arms fair, while failing to challenge its role in the Sudan conflict; and urges the Government to immediately impose an arms embargo on the UAE, suspen...
https://edm.parliament.uk/early-day-motion/64891/armed-exports-to-the-united-arab-emirates-and-the-situation-in-sudan

***
The Trillion Dollar War Machine laat de oorlogszucht zien en wijst de vorige en huidige president van de VS. Trump had er winig tijd voor nodig om het Pentagon een biljoen dollar te beloven; in een klap 100 miljard erbij (de trillion uit de titel).
https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-trillion-dollar-war-machine.htmlhttps://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-trillion-dollar-war-machine.html

December 8

***
Military ties between Pakistan and Turkey deepen

Turkey plans to establish a facility in Pakistan to assemble Turkish stealth and long-endurance combat drones.

The step is part of Ankara's global defence expansion strategy. https://dailytimes.com.pk/1413419/turkiye-to-set-up-drone-assembly-facility-in-pakistan/

***
Officially #Siemens claims to have nothing to do with the arms industry. But the company e.g. built a factory in #Weeze, near the Dutch border, this summer. Fuselage components for the #F35 stealth fighter jet are manufactured there.
https://www.welt.de/wirtschaft/article6932ecfebdb9c3d5970e529e/technologiekonzern-siemens-kooperiert-bei-kampfjet-f-35-mit-rheinmetall.html

***
Een goed teken dat universiteiten ook na 't staakt-het-vuren kritisch blijven op de samenwerking met hun Israëlische partners, zegt Wendela de Vries van Stop #Wapenhandel die de banden tussen Nederlandse & Israëlische onderzoeksinstituten in kaart bracht.
https://www.trouw.nl/onderwijs/israelische-universiteiten-aantal-boycots-verdubbelde-binnen-een-jaar~b178b99b/

***
A Korean view on the Dutch military industry (focussed on subsystems and underlying tech that make up key weapons systems, as well as in the emerging field of unmanned systems) after a visit to the NEDS arms fair with it match making opportunities.
http://news.zum.com/articles/102638807

***
#US selects #Damen #LST-100 #landing ship #design for new Marine Corps troop and equipment transport. (Remarkably in the current US position on Venezuela Damen also exported the vessels to that country (and several others.))

https://www.armyrecognition.com/news/navy-news/2025/u-s-selects-damen-lst-100-landing-ship-design-for-new-marine-corps-troop-and-equipment-transport

See also: https://www.highergov.com/contract-opportunity/lst-100-design-and-engineering-support-to-the-medi-n0002425c2414-p-190ce/

A bargain

U.S. Navy Pays $3.3 Million For Dutch LST-100 Design To Fast-Track McClung-Class Landing Ships.
https://www.marineinsight.com/shipping-news/u-s-navy-pays-3-3-million-for-dutch-lst-100-design-to-fast-track-mcclung-class-landing-ships/

Here I wrote more on the Venezuelan acquisition of the class, included pictures of the use in seaborne armoured vehicle operations. https://broekstukken.blogspot.com/2017/11/eu-imposes-weak-arms-embargo-on.html

December 6

***
Congress Should Push Back Against the New #US-#Saudi #Arms Agreement.

We should not let a few business deals, however lucrative, tie America to a regime that is more likely to entangle America in a new Middle East conflict.
https://www.thenation.com/article/world/trump-saudi-arms-spending-military-congress/

***
Israel uses video from Gaza genocide to market arms to European, Asian countries.

Despite banning Israeli officials from a recent defence show, British officials turned up to check out Israeli weapons deployed in war on Gaza.
https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/israel-uses-video-gaza-genocide-market-arms-european-asian-countries

***
Prins Constantijn houdt toezicht op zichzelf. Sinds kort is hij fondsbestuurder van 't #AVO #Innovatiefonds, waar hij ook al toezichthouder was. Intussen kampt het fonds met interne chaos en hoge overhead, van hoge kantoorhuur tot luxe vergaderlocaties.
https://www.ftm.nl/artikelen/prins-constantijn-houdt-toezicht-op-zichzelf-bij-chaotisch-en-ontransparant-navo-fonds

December 5

***
#F35 As are a step closer to being able to carry the European #MBDA #Meteor beyond-visual-range, air-to-air missile after recently completing a number of ground-based integration tests in the US.
https://breakingdefense.com/2025/12/f-35as-inch-closer-to-carrying-meteor-missiles-after-pivotal-ground-tests/

***
Waarom Duitsland en andere Europese landen zich voor de wapens van de genocide industrie wenden tot Israël. (aangepaste kop)
https://www.ewmagazine.nl/buitenland/news/2025/12/duitsland-arrow-3-raketschild-europa-israel-wapenhandel-1518879/

December 4

***
#Oorlog tegen #migratie?: De gemilitariseerde #grens als winstgebied voor de #wapenindustrie.

***
OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, and xAI all Major #AI-labs disclosed that their advanced models showed advantaged #biological expertise knowledge to develop new therapies but also risks enabling malicious actors seeking to design novel biological #weapons.
https://www.lawfaremedia.org/article/how-u.s.-export-controls-risk-undermining-biosecurity

More tech and the future of war

Dual-use SpaceTech: a strategic shift, not a short-term trend. https://quoteddata.com/research/seraphim-space-investment-trust-dual-use-spacetech-a-strategic-shift-not-a-short-term-trend-mc/

Space has become a war-fighting domain, an assessment that calls for doctrinal changes and the ability to intervene there more quickly, space-force leaders from several NATO countries said at the Space Defence and Security Summit here on Tuesday. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/09/17/space-is-the-new-frontier-of-war-officials-say-in-change-of-tone/

***
Anti-military activists scaled the roof of a Cardiff business, early Thursday morning, due to its alleged connections to the Israel-Palestine war.

The 4 December protest was the 5th course of action taken by Demilitarise Newcastle over the past 4 days. https://newcastleweekly.com.au/anti-war-activists-scale-cardiff-factory-roof-in-protest/

***
Most Europeans want to keep same distance between US and China, poll finds.

Some 55 per cent of those surveyed would rather not align with either superpower, while 48 per cent saw Trump as ‘a foe of Europe’. 
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3335123/most-europeans-want-keep-same-distance-between-us-and-china-poll-finds

***
Italy has decided to temporarily suspend its participation in the NATO program to purchase American weapons for Ukraine. As Bloomberg reports, the country's leadership explains this by the fact that negotiations on a ceasefire are currently underway. https://nashaniva.com/amp/en/382779

***
#Canada isn't the only country using the 'fear' argument:

#Liberals #Fear Closing #Arms Export #Loophole Would Anger the US. A leaked briefing document gives the full picture behind the government’s talking points. https://www.readthemaple.com/liberals-fear-closing-arms-export-loophole-would-anger-u-s/

And so the flow continues.


December 3

***
What do the #Gripen E figures in #Colombia really hide? The question is whether large #price differences stem from a change in scope or whether it reflects governance issues. The word 'corruption' dropped already in Stockholm.
https://meta-defense.fr/en/2025/12/02/Gripen-E-figures-in-Colombia-revealed/

***
Maar blijft Damen nu hoflevrancier voor de Nederlandse marine?

De Fiscale Inlichtingen- en Opsporingsdienst #FIOD heeft dinsdagochtend 'n inval gedaan in het huis van Kommer #Damen, de voormalig topman en huidige president-commissaris van Damen Shipyards.
https://www.omroepzeeland.nl/nieuws/18010239/fiod-doet-inval-bij-voormalig-topman-damen-tijdens-lopende-rechtszaak

2 arrested as authorities investigate #Damen. Case is said to be separate from previous charges. Damen is alleged to have supplied Russia goods even after European sanctions took effect. The items reached Russia through so-called “circumvention countries.” https://nltimes.nl/2025/12/03/two-arrested-authorities-investigate-damen-alleged-sanctions-violations

***
Het is onbegrijpelijk hoe EU-leiders zoals Kallas en Von der Leyen met irreële voorwaarden omtrent de grootste twistpunten de kans op een uitweg ondermijnen.

Jolle Demmers: Laat Oekraïne-onderhandelingen niet stranden op Europese ijdelheid.
https://www.trouw.nl/opinie/jolle-demmers-laat-oekraine-onderhandelingen-niet-stranden-op-europese-ijdelheid~b1407409/

***

Steeds opnieuw kom ik mensen tegen die denken dat de krijgsmacht een ondergeschoven kindje is dat moet bedelen om geld. Daarom maar weer eens 'n staafdiagram gemaakt met de cijfers.

Zo zie je in een oogopslag dat de werkelijkheid anders is.
Bron NAVO: https://www.nato.int/content/dam/nato/webready/documents/finance/def-exp-2025-en.pdf

December 2

***
En maar wauwelen over veiligheid.

Britse speciale eenheden hebben mogelijk oorlogsmisdaden in Afghanistan gepleegd, stelt 'n voormalige officier. "Ik ben niet bij de special forces gegaan om kleuters in hun bed dood te schieten", zegt de klokkenluider.
https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2025/12/01/vk-verenigd-koninkrijk-engeland-britse-leger-afghanistan-oorlogs/

***
Europe is going on a huge military spending spree, & The Economist sees good reasons for it.

But is it good for the peoples in the Union? What about healthcare, pensions, social security for those in need? Is the scarcity of personnel not an issue here?
https://www.economist.com/europe/2025/12/01/europe-is-going-on-a-huge-military-spending-spree

***
Two #US citizens and two nationals from China —all residing in the US—have been charged with a conspiracy to illegally export cutting-edge #NVIDIA Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), which have artificial intelligence #AI applications, to #China.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/us-citizens-and-chinese-nationals-arrested-exporting-artificial-intelligence-technology

December 1

***
Militarisering

Provincie komt met ronkende ideeën voor Defensie-uitbreidingen: Robotica, 3D-printen, sensors, kunstvezels voor kogelwerende vesten, de Greenwise campus, circulaire plastics uit Emmen, Fokker in Hoogeveen. Een lange stoet komt voorbij. https://www.rtvdrenthe.nl/nieuws/17858001/provincie-komt-met-ronkende-ideeen-voor-defensie-uitbreidingen

***
Police pepper spray protesters outside Sydney weapons expo linked to Israel’s genocide.
https://www.amust.com.au/2025/11/police-pepper-spray-protesters-outside-sydney-weapons-expo-linked-to-israels-genocide/

***
Retweet with comment
@SIPRIorg: Where are the world’s largest arms-producing and military services companies based? Explore the data: https://bit.ly/3KnvfoZ #SIPRI #ArmsIndustry #Top100 #DisarmamentNow #ArmsRace #Peace https://x.com/SIPRIorg/status/1995342091698970647

Despite a record-breaking rise in global 2024 arms sales, the combined revenue of the 8 Chinese firms listed in the arms industry’s Top 100 fell drastically.

Where are the world’s largest arms-producing and military services companies based? Explore the data: https://www.sipri.org/visualizations/2025/sipri-top-100-arms-producing-and-military-services-companies-world-2024 #SIPRI #ArmsIndustry #Top100 #DisarmamentNow #ArmsRace #Peace

The 10% fall to US$88.3bn was also the biggest aggregated relative country-wide drop in the list. https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3334509/chinas-scandal-hit-weapons-firms-drag-down-regional-sales-record-breaking-year

***
#Nexperia isdagelijks in 't nieuws, maar wie ziet door de bomen het bos nog? Waarom werd een relatief onbekende onderneming uit #Nijmegen (behalve bij de aanhang van #NEC, door de prominente reclame in stadion de Goffert) inzet van een #mondiale twist?
https://specials.fd.nl/hoe-een-nijmeegs-chipbedrijf-wereldnieuws-werd