zaterdag 21 februari 2026

My tweets for February 2026

 Latest on top (updated regularly):
(https://twitter.com/martinbroek)

February 20

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Do US-destined arms exports require better scrutiny?

"It's relatively recently that Canadians have begun to look with skepticism at what happens to these weapons after they cross the border." https://www.canadianaffairs.news/2026/02/18/do-u-s-destined-arms-exports-require-better-scrutiny/

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Retweet @_ENAAT"1/3 of the #EU-made military goods that still reach Russia pass through Turkey, a new report by the German economic research institute @ifo_Institut revealed" This will only get worse with increased production and deregulation under #defenceomnibus. https://www.euractiv.com/news/turkey-revealed-as-hub-for-indirect-eu-weapon-exports-to-russia/

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Parties squirm around an almost dead future fighter plane.

“The deadlock of a single pillar should not jeopardize the entire future of this high-tech European capability, which will bolster our collective defense,” Airbus CEO Faury said. https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2026/02/19/airbus-open-to-two-fighter-option-for-fcas-to-keep-program-alive/?utm_source=sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=dfn-dnr

Germany is considers to order more F-35 fighters, sources told Reuters, a move that would deepen Berlin's reliance on US military tech as its joint FCAS fighter programme with France falters.

One source said Berlin may purchase 35+ additional jets. https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/germany-seeking-more-f-35-jets-european-fighter-program-falters-sources-say-2026-02-19/

February 19

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Retweet @ArmsTradeCT: #UnravellingTuesday: Israeli arms giant Elbit Systems faced reported contract suspensions from NATO's Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) in relation to several anti corruption investigations involving former NSPA staff. New case link below.

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For initial production, the Navy will direct a Vessel Construction Manager to manage Medium Landing Ship #LSM construction at two shipyards: Bollinger Shipyards and Fincantieri Marinette Marine.

Image: #Damen Shipyards

https://www.marinelog.com/news/navy-issues-rfp-for-lsm-program-vessel-construction-manager/

US Liberty Ships ready to set sail once more – but this time they'll be autonomous. Blue Water Autonomy is working with Damen Shipyards Group, and the construction of its first Liberty-class ship is about to begin. https://www.forcesnews.com/technology/us-liberty-ships-set-sail-once-more-time-theyll-be-autonomous

February 18

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Militarisation

#Renault has confirmed that it is working on a major military drone project alongside defence specialist Turgis Gaillard, in a move that could turn its factories in north-west France into key hubs for Europe’s emerging war drone industry. https://www.vetromebel.com/18-190633-military-drones-renault-confirms-move-into-defence-sector-as-normandys-cleon-plant-tipped-for-engine-production/

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Naval Group takes a 20% stake in cortAIx France & joins its governance. cortAIx, Thales' artificial intelligence aims to quickly provide the armed forces with trusted, cyber-secure, and sovereign AI...while keeping humans in control. https://defence-industry.eu/naval-group-acquires-20-of-thales-cortaix-to-accelerate-sovereign-ai-for-french-armed-forces/

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Belgium based INDRA, DIEHL, AIRBUS D&S and #TNO have secured contract from #EDA for Military research and tech - Action Plan and Foundational Research for Quantum Technologies in Defence. https://ojeu.com/ojdblnk/view-notice.php?id=5325354

Value contract may be € 1.6m, for 2 lots. https://www.developmentaid.org/tenders/view/1460480/quantum-technologies-in-defence-action-plan-and-foundational-research-for-quantum-technologies-in-de

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Makers Top 100 includes Dutch companies that produce physical or semi-finished products. Growth in machine building & defence shifts the playing field. Van Halteren performs exceptionally well (nr. 40) because of strong growth in the military industry. https://www.abnamro.com/en/news/hundred-relatively-unknown-manufacturing-companies-generate-100-billion

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Drones, the new sinews of war in eastern DRC. But also the notorious Eric Prince is employed in Easter DRC. https://www.ledevoir.com/monde/afrique/956796/drones-nouveaux-nerfs-guerre-est-rdc

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Protesters gathered Tuesday outside the Defense Tech Expo 2026 at the Tel Aviv Exhibition Center, alleging that weapons showcased at the event were being "tested" in Gaza before being marketed as "field-proven." https://menafn.com/1110755561/Israeli-Protesters-Accuse-Arms-Expo-of-Testing-Weapons-in-Gaza

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The European Union extended an arms embargo on Zimbabwe by a year — until February 2027 — as part of an annual review of sanctions it imposed against the southern African nation. https://www.moneyweb.co.za/news/africa/eu-extends-zimbabwe-arms-embargo-by-one-year/

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Victoria rally urges support for 'no more loopholes' act. The protest was motivated by concerns that Canadian made military equipment exported to the US may be transferred onward to other countries without Canadian permits, tracking, or public oversight.
https://vancouverislandfreedaily.com/2026/02/17/victoria-rally-urges-support-for-no-more-loopholes-act/

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Arsenal expands

Ukraine is integrating into Europe’s defense-industrial system. E.g. Swedish Saab and the Ukrainian state enterprise Ukrainian Defence Industry (Ukroboronprom) signed an MoU, to cooperate in the fields of aviation and aerial surveillance.https://www.kyivpost.com/post/70233

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SIPRI released an overview of artificial intelligence #AI in Chinese, Indian and US #nuclear postures, norms and systems.

This backgrounder presents a systematic survey of the extent to which these states have integrated AI into these nuclear areas.

https://www.sipri.org/publications/2026/other-publications/ai-chinese-indian-and-us-nuclear-postures-norms-and-systems

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How surprising weapon producers want and are able to produce more if they are paid for the extra's.

The question is however if to militarise the economies of Western Europe is in the interest of its ordinary citizens. (Not of the sick, elderly and those dependent on welfare.)

Retweet with comment @EuromaidanPress: Western arms production is ahead of political will. German giant Rheinmetall is already producing more ammo than it has contracts for Ukraine CEO Armin Papperger said company is ready to supply more weapons immediately, if governments release funding. https://euromaidanpress.com/2026/02/17/germanys-arms-giant-says-it-can-flood-ukraine-with-ammo-right-now-if-western-governments-unlock-funding/

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In 2026, the India-France Year of Innovation expand cooperation between both. Thales will bring its expertise to support this. Over 70 years in India, the company has expanded its presence, making the country a central focus for its future plans. https://www.marketscreener.com/news/thales-why-india-is-a-strategic-pillar-for-thales-ce7e5dd9d98bf022

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International sanctions are failing to prevent European techn from ending up in Russian drones, missiles, and tanks. New research reveals how companies in Hong Kong have funnelled components made by major EU manufacturers into Russia’s war machine. https://www.ftm.eu/articles/russia-war-ukraine-european-tech-hidden-supply-chain

February 17

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These are the countries that purchase Chinese fighter jets. Gives overview of types, customers and partners.
https://simpleflying.com/these-countries-purchase-chinese-fighter-jets/

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Saudi Arabia’s bid to diversify its weapons partners is rankling the Trump admin, which sees deals with countries like Turkey potentially cutting into the US’s slice of the kingdom’s arms market, US officials 've told Middle East Eye. #KAAN #Pakistan #JF17 https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/saudi-arabias-turkeys-kaan-jet-talks-irk-trump-administration-bent-arms-export-dominance

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Franco-German-Spanish sixth-gen fightet, the FCAS may survive, but next-gen fighter negotiations all but dead, an industry source said on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. It seems now most likely there will be two types of the FCAS. https://breakingdefense.com/2026/02/fcas-may-survive-but-next-gen-fighter-negotiations-all-but-dead-industry-source/

February 16

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1/2 Katarina Djokic, a SIPRI researcher said China accounted for 26% of West African arms imports, followed by France with 14% and 11% each for Russia and Turkey. China had expanded arms transfers to West African states like Senegal and Ghana regardless of French .../2 2/2military ties. Djokic said China's increased arms sales to Burkina Faso and Mali followed recent coups, "but it also has to do with conflicts in these countries and the fact they are buying arms more than ever before". https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3342903/how-military-vacuum-west-and-central-africa-opened-new-markets-china

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The 4 largest German military companies increased their revenue from arms deals by 36% in 2024 to the equivalent of $14.9bn. They are in demand not only as suppliers for the German armed forces but also for foreign armies.

Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung, 15/02/26 

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War in #Ukraine: #Destinus, the secrets of low-cost drones destined for Kyiv. Highlight: Specialising in kamikaze and interceptor drones, this #Dutch start-up has opened a new factory in Spain to ramp up production. https://www.lexpress.fr/economie/entreprises/guerre-en-ukraine-destinus-les-secrets-des-drones-low-cost-destines-a-kiev-6V7YZO5ZF5BIVL4CL4PMHKDDWQ/

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Germany may build its own medium-range ballistic missiles in Germany. This is envisaged by a concept from the French missile company Ariane Group. The joint venture between Airbus and the French Safran Group is known in Germany as the general contractor for the civilian Ariane rocket, but also develops and supplies the propulsion system for the French M51 intercontinental nuclear missiles, which are launched from submarines. https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/france-germany-explore-new-ballistic-missile-arianegroup-says-2026-02-12/

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#Airbus SE and #Leonardo Spa on Thursday announced the beginning of the second phase of the European Next Generation Rotorcraft Technologies project, a 3 year programme co #funded ( 60+%) by the #EU to advance future military rotorcraft capabilities.

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Joseph Henrotin: "The F-35 is the aircraft of European dependence on the United States" https://www.lexpress.fr/secret-defense/le-f-35-est-lavion-de-la-dependance-europeenne-aux-etats-unis-leclairage-dun-expert-militaire-PW77NE7O3JHXZN2VY5MVLFNKUY/
https://www.editionsdurocher.fr/product/133098/un-avion-pour-les-gouverner-tous/

"The F-35 is the embodiment of European dependency on the United States"


Many foreign companies are involved in the F-35 programme. This has sometimes saved companies. For example, this is the case for Fokker in the Netherlands
https://www.lexpress.fr/secret-defense/le-f-35-est-lavion-de-la-dependance-europeenne-aux-etats-unis-leclairage-dun-expert-militaire-PW77NE7O3JHXZN2VY5MVLFNKUY/

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#Unmanned-vessel by Blue Water’s for military tasks, the Liberty class, based on #Damen’s 800-ton Stan Patrol 6009 and packed with systems to enable it to operate autonomously. Payload includes missile #launchers.

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Retweet·@IISS_org: Critical Raw Materials and European Defence | As aircraft become more sophisticated and incorporate more low-observable technologies, and sensors and electronics become more advanced, the amount of critical raw materials in aircraft components will likely increase. This is already true for the aircraft often described as the most advanced in active service, the F-35. The latest report illustrates how important critical raw materials are to modern defence equipment and discusses some of the measures that governments are taking to mitigate risk. Read the IISS research report (published 25 March 2025) : https://go.iiss.org/4bPA9GM

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Unlike Damen Naval before it, Naval Vessels Lürssen #NVL recently succeeded in transferring the design data for the F-126 frigate into its production system. https://www.welt.de/regionales/hamburg/article698da88e62ee8b267c15c987/marineruestung-bei-den-naechsten-deutschen-fregatten-koennte-die-werft-blohm-voss-leer-ausgehen.html

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#Rafale Expansion Signals Deepening #India-#France Defence Partnership. Decades of aviation and naval cooperation form the backdrop to France's growing role in India's defence modernisation. https://m.thewire.in/article/diplomacy/rafale-expansion-signals-deepening-india-france-defence-partnership/amp

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Retweet @Defence_Index: BREAKING: Outgoing Dutch Defence Secretary Tuinman says if the US blocks F 35 software updates, the Netherlands will crack the code and develop its own updates to make the jets fully European. He added he is not allowed to provide further details. https://www.bnr.nl/nieuws/nieuws-politiek/10594175/staatssecretaris-van-defensie-tuinman-nederland-is-eind-2028-klaar-voor-een-russische-aanval ILLUSTRATIE 

February 15

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On the peculiar ways the military industry is doing business: UK peers have questioned the MoD over its decision to award #Palantir a further 3-year contract without competition, raising concerns about propriety, value for money and long-term reliance on a single US supplier for critical defence data and AI capability, the UK Defence Journal understands. https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/baroness-warns-of-unpleasant-smell-over-palantir-contract/

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Hindustan Aeronautic Ltd #HAL distances itself from the news it would build the 114 French Rafale fighters domestically (https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/defence/news/defence-council-clears-procurement-of-114-rafales-mega-contract-set-to-become-mother-of-all-defence-deals/articleshow/128276900.cms).

It hasn't had an order by the Indian MoD to do so. https://idrw.org/hal-distances-itself-from-rafale-production-speculation-in-india/

India — which has previously purchased large batches of weapons from France — is increasing its orders from Paris. At the same time, it continues to procure arms from the US, Russia, and Israel, building a highly diversified model of defence procurement. https://caliber.az/en/post/rafales-for-new-delhi-how-will-islamabad-respond

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Switzerland weighs abandoning MIM-104 Patriot amid delivery delays & rising costs. The country has already paid a 30% advance to the US for 5 Patriot air defence batteries ordered in 2021. Washington is unable to specify when the systems will be delivered. https://en.defence-ua.com/weapon_and_tech/switzerland_weighs_abandoning_mim_104_patriot_amid_delivery_delays_rising_costs_after_us_prioritizes_ukraine-17505.html

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Despite #Greenland Danish MoD contracts US military industry giant #Raytheon for ELCAN Specter DR sights.

This tech is part of the development of a new short-range interceptor missile to replace the US Army's ageing Stinger surface-to-air missile.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/savingandinvesting/danish-defence-contracts-raytheon-for-elcan-specter-dr-sights/ar-AA1zI5eo

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AI in warfare: How the US military secretly used Anthropic’s Claude AI to capture Nicolás Maduro. Wall Street Journal says Claude used in operation via Anthropic’s partnership with Palantir Technologies. https://indianexpress.com/article/world/us-news/ai-in-warfare-us-military-reportedly-deployed-anthropics-claude-in-venezuela-raid-10532790/

February 14

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SIPRI released a report that examines the intersection of military procurement and responsible military artificial intelligence (AI). https://www.sipri.org/publications/2026/other-publications/responsible-procurement-military-artificial-intelligence

February 13

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US F-35 fighter jets: backbone of european air forces. Time for change! https://stopwapenhandel.org/us-fighter-jets-backbone-of-european-air-forces/

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We willen oorlog met wapens voorkomen, maar toenemende escalatie leidt tot oorlog, schrijft Dolph Kessler in Trouw.

De keuze is niet óf bewapenen óf vrede. De vraag is of we bereid zijn om veiligheid breder te definiëren dan militaire macht alleen.
https://archive.ph/H3OyO#selection-1449.0-1449.246

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The French government targetting Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories. French ASER states the UN has been calling since 2024 for an immediate cessation of arms supplies to Israel & Paris refuses to comply. https://aser-asso.org/nouvelle-compromission-du-gouvernement-francais-avec-le-gouvernement-israelien/

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The F-35 Joint Program Office has declined to comment on a report that JSFs are being delivered to the US military without radars due to chronic issues with a key upgrade program. Available info does seem to very strongly point to that being the case. https://www.twz.com/air/are-f-35s-being-delivered-to-the-usaf-without-radars-sure-seems-like-it

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Een win-win-loose-loose aanpak

Nederland, 't VK, Noorwegen en Zweden leveren VS-wapens, materieel en munitie aan Oekraïne via het Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiatief. Ook levert Nederland F-16-simulatoren.
https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/actueel/nieuws/2026/02/12/wapens-munitie-materieel-en-f-16-simulatoren-voor-oekraine

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150 people blocked the entrances to a #Kent weapons factory that supplies drone technology for Israel’s genocide in #Gaza, preventing staff and trucks from entering the facility for several hours on Thursday morning. https://novaramedia.com/2026/02/12/activists-block-entry-to-kent-arms-factory-making-drone-tech-for-israel/

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Clarification concerning #Tatra Defense Systems #TDS. TDS denies the structure is created to divert profits from Tatra Trucks instead the structure enables participation in complex military tenders requiring security clearances, integration capabil...etc https://www.marketscreener.com/news/clarification-regarding-media-coverage-concerning-tatra-defense-systems-ce7e5ad2da81f626

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MILITARISE, MARCH!

Ex-NATO SG & ex-PM of Denmark, Rasmussen, stated in an interview with the Spanish paper El Pais https://elpais.com/internacional/2026-02-12/anders-fogh-rasmussen-exsecretario-general-de-la-otan-europa-debe-poner-su-economia-en-pie-de-guerra.html that Europe must put its economy on a war footing and use the excess capacity of car factories for arms production. https://nashaniva.com/en/388000

Over the past 5 years, EU member states have boosted their military spending by 63% to reach €381 billion in 2025.

The military industry is however still under pressure. Seen from the defence industrial perpective an explanation: https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/people-profit/20260212-europe-s-defence-industry-under-pressure

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Indonesian Tempo magazine reports: According to a new poll by the Allensbach Institute, a German market research institute, two-thirds of Germans currently see the US as "one of the greatest threats to world peace" alongside Russia and China. https://en.tempo.co/read/2086880/threat-to-world-peace-how-germans-see-the-us-now

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USA first Arms Transfer Strategy.

A focus on the economic benefits of US arms transfers misses an opportunity to ensure that the United States undertakes security partnerships that have long-term strategic benefits.

https://www.stimson.org/2026/the-america-first-arms-transfer-strategy-reorders-us-arms-transfer-priorities/

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Hardly surprising, isn't it:

German Federal Constitutional Court dismisses constitutional complaint against arms exports to Israel.
https://www.alhaq.org/advocacy/27310.html

Can efforts and energy not be better directed to stop these sales of weaponry as falling in the trap of legal complaints?

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India’s Defence Acquisition Council has cleared 114 French Dassault Rafale fighters for the Indian Air Force, paving the way for a $36bn expansion designed to reverse falling squadron strength and anchor the next generation of combat airpower. https://aerospaceglobalnews.com/news/india-dassault-rafale-approved-air-force/

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Komt naar je toe: A very Long Engagement (live)

Krijgsmacht wil treinen kopen om gewonde militairen te vervoeren ten tijde van 'n conflict

(& radarsystemen + bergingsvoertuigen).

Gezamenlijke kosten tot €1,5mrd, deel vd orders gaat naar NL bedrijven.
https://fd.nl/politiek/1586365/defensie-wil-treinen-kopen-voor-gewondenvervoer-tijdens-oorlog

February 12

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Defensie in de wetenschap valt niet te verdedigen. Zep van de Visse kritisch: Elk voorstel voor defensiegerelateerd onderzoek dat op tafel komt, moet vooraf openbaar gemaakt worden voor de academische gemeenschap met 'n onafhankelijke ethische toetsing. https://www.folia.nl/nl/opinie/171397/defensie-in-de-wetenschap-valt-niet-te-verdedigen

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Coming next to this theatre: hypersonic warfare.

German Hypersonica claimed a significant step towards Europe’s 1st sovereign hypersonic strike capability by 2029, after the company’s 1st hypersonic test flight (prototype reached Mach 6+; range 300+ km). https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2026/02/10/german-startup-aims-to-deliver-european-hypersonic-strike-by-2029/

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Submerged armed war tech

Lockheed Martin unveiled its Lamprey Multi Mission Autonomous Undersea Vehicle, an underwater drone that can attach itself to ships, launch torpedoes & deploy airborne drones.

https://www.defensenews.com/unmanned/2026/02/10/lockheeds-unveils-lamprey-undersea-drone-that-can-attach-to-ships/

I prefer tech efforts to erase malaria instead.

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Head of Ukraine Defence Employers Federation, Ihor Fomenko, explains why arms exports are important for the Ukraine military-industrial base (and his business) and why it will loose by blocking exports and economically and military win by arms transfers. https://english.nv.ua/nation/zelenskyy-announces-arms-export-launch-10-centers-planned-in-europe-50582881.html

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Europe’s military push is in focus, but cracks in its arms-export system show. Despite EU rules, loopholes funnel arms to high-risk destinations. Concerns about human rights are often pushed aside by industry lobbying and strategic interests. https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2026/02/12/how-europes-defence-push-is-testing-existing-arms-export-rules

February 11

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TKMS Posts Record $22B Backlog and Lifts Sales Outlook as Submarine Demand Grows. 

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With a little help

#Airbus MoU Could Lead To #Saudi Final Assembly Of Rotorcraft.

It is unclear whether the aircraft would be used by Saudi Arabia’s military or civil authorities. But the H175 has been developed to meet the needs of both sectors.
https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/airbus-mou-could-lead-saudi-final-assembly-rotorcraft

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What US lifting of arms embargo on Cambodia means for defence ties.

Analysts say Cambodia is likely to make only modest US arms purchases given its limited budget, and rely on Chinese weaponry for now.
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3343079/what-us-lifting-arms-embargo-cambodia-means-defence-ties

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Universities face backlash over £2.5bn in defence partnerships as academics and students demand transparency and divestment. https://aoav.org.uk/2026/universities-face-backlash-over-2-5bn-in-defence-partnerships-as-academics-and-students-demand-transparency-and-divestment/

Students and staff hit out at uni arms trade partnerships. https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/02/10/students-and-staff-hit-out-at-uni-arms-trade-partnerships/

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Civil defence teams in Gaza documented over 2,800 cases of Palestinians 'vaporised' by US-made bombs.

So far, Israel has killed more than 72,037 people and destroyed nearly 90 percent of the territory’s infrastructure.

https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/israel-weapons-evaporate-palestinians-gaza-investigation

Not new: https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-12-17/ty-article-magazine/.premium/israeli-attacks-on-the-south-gaza-humanitarian-zone-have-killed-scores-of-palestinians/00000193-d0f9-d4b3-adb3-f8fd6c5a0000

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The long struggle of the "ports for peace" PRESS RELEASE 100226

The long struggle of the "ports for peace"

On Friday, February 6, 2026, workers from many European ports (twenty-one), including eleven Italian ones, protested against rearmament policies and .../2 2/2 reiterated that "dockworkers and port workers do not work for war."Four ships were forced to change their routes:
ZIM Virginia,
ZIM New Zealand,
ZIM Australia and
MSC Eagle III
for more (French) see: https://aser-asso.org/la-longue-lutte-des-ports-pour-la-paix/

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Armenia becomes a showcase for Indian arms (Armenia's Civilnet notes)

Armenia has emerged as India’s largest buyer of military equipment. Like India, it had relied almost entirely on Russian arms for decades.
https://www.civilnet.am/en/news/1001890/armenia-becomes-a-showcase-for-indian-arms/

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A Flanders (BE) Criminal Court has convicted the shipping agency United Antwerp Maritime Agencies #Unamar and 3 of its employees for their role in the transit of arms destined for the Yemen war.

The case was initiated following a complaint by @Vredesactie. https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium-news/1963803/antwerp-shipping-agency-fined-for-allowing-arms-transit-to-yemen

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The very hungry Caterpillar

European Commissioner for Defence & Space, Kubilius, will embark on a tour of EU countries. The goal is to persuade governments and the defence industry to ramp up missile production for Ukraine and European stockpiles. https://unn.ua/en/news/eu-defence-commissioner-plans-missile-tour-of-europe-to-boost-arms-production

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Canada seems to give in

Canada has begun making payments for long-lead components needed to assemble 14 additional Lockheed Martin CF-35A fighter jets, according to CBC News. https://skiesmag.com/news/canada-securing-parts-for-additional-cf-35s/
 
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UK Home Office reassured Israeli arms produrer Elbit Systems “the government cares about the harm” Palestine Action was causing them. Docu revealed the correspondence between the military company and government which banned Palestine Action 2 years later. https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/dispatches-documentary-palestine-action-claims-government-spoke-elbit-banning-it

February 10

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has hinted that Saudi Arabia could be on the cusp of becoming a partner on the Turkish Kaan fighter program. https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/saudi-arabia-could-partner-kaan-turkish-president-suggests

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan visited Saudi Arabia and Egypt earlier this month, marking fresh steps in the normalization of relations with key regional powers and opening the door to new defence deals. https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/2026/02/10/erdogan-pitches-kaan-fighter-jet-as-an-alternative-to-western-warplanes/

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World Defense Show in Riyadh. 4 Dutch companies participate on this arms fair in a country known for its brutal human rights violations and autocratic regime: Axon, Conotech, Integris, Robin. For others see list of 2026 exhibitors. Drones a major topic https://www.worlddefenseshow.com/en/exhibitors

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A US report: “Strategic Attack: Maintaining the Air Force’s Capacity to Deny Enemy Sanctuaries” is pushing for a significant increase in weapons purchases that will directly benefit the defence contractors that fund the organisation putting out the report. https://responsiblestatecraft.org/mitchell-institute/

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#Saudi Arabia in talks with #US company for #AI-powered drones.

Saudi Arabia would acquire V-Bat for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance as it steps up Red Sea role.

https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/saudi-arabia-talks-us-company-ai-powered-drones-sources-say 

(Photo illustrating article with V-bat drone made in Dutch navy harbour Den Helder.)


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Ukraine opens up arms exports, seeking to cash in on wartime technology

Zelenskiy said 10 "export centres" for Ukrainian weapons would be opened in 2026 across Europe, adding that combat drones, would be among the exports. https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/ukraine-opens-up-arms-exports-seeking-to-cash-in-on-wartime-technology

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The arsenal for the world

Ukraine and France start joint arms production

The two countries signed a letter of intent paving the way for ' large-scale joint projects in the defense-industrial sector,' Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said. https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2026/02/09/ukraine-and-france-move-to-launch-joint-arms-production_6750307_4.html

February 9

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One of the German concessions in its relations with the Gulfstates is particularly controversial: increased arms exports. But this, too, is now likely part of the new pragmatism in the foreign policy of Berlin.

(Neuer Pragmatismus in der Außenpolitik. 090226 Von Hagen Strauss).

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De vergunningen voor uitvoer van militaire goederen vanuit #Vlaanderen is in 2025 enorm toegenomen t.o.v. het jaar voordien. Dat blijkt uit cijfers die Vlaams minister-president Matthias Diependaele (N-VA) bekendmaakte.

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#Sudan condemns global silence over supply of weapons to RSF

The Sudanese army has accused the #UAE and forces linked to Libyan commander Khalifa #Haftar of supplying the RSF with money and weapons by land and air, allegations Abu Dhabi has denied. https://www.newarab.com/news/sudan-condemns-global-silence-over-supply-weapons-rsf

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Veiligheid?

Hoofdrolspelers rond de chroom-6 lozing (1,4 kg) op het riool door #Fokker beantwoorden pas op dinsdag 12 mei vragen van de gemeenteraad van Hoogeveen over het ernstige incident.

D66 wil het college deze maand nog ter verantwoording te roepen.

https://dvhn.nl/drenthe/raad-hoogeveen-praat-pas-in-mei-over-gang-van-zaken-rond-chroom-6-lozing-fokker.-nog-veel-vragen-over-ernstig-incident-48431058.html

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#Romania: ailing Mangalia shipyard (owner ship Romanian state (51%) #Damen (49%)) to get €700 million contract under #EU SAFE program vor two naval vessels. Analists in Romania doubt if the wharf is capable of delivering them in time. https://www.romania-insider.com/mangalia-shipyard-safe-funds-feb-2026

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Why not

The US DOD has signed a previously unreported $210 million contract with the Israeli state-owned company Tomer to produce new #cluster munitions, despite longstanding humanitarian concerns over their civilian impact.


February 8

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De VS trekt medewerkers terug uit Navo-kenniscentra in Nederland: ‘We houden het in de gaten en staan in goed contact met de COE’s in Den Haag en Utrecht,’ zegt het ministerie van Defensie. https://ad.nl/buitenland/de-vs-trekt-amerikaanse-medewerkers-terug-uit-navo-kenniscentra-in-nederland-we-houden-het-in-de-gaten~aecd9368/
Meer over de Kenniscentra #COE https://c2coe.org/wp-content/uploads/Library Documents/External/20260101 2026 COE Catalogue.pdf

February 7

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Trump has signed an executive directing the US government to prioritise weapons sales/transfers to countries that have invested in their own military and contribute to the US' economic security. Trump described it as "America First Arms Transfer Strategy.”

https://www.dnaindia.com/world/report-donald-trump-orders-to-prioritise-us-weapon-sales-to-countries-with-higher-defence-spending-what-does-it-mean-for-india-3199597

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While critisism on Indonesia's military is growint Leonardo decides to sell its light M-346 jet for training and light combat. https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2026/02/05/indonesia-selects-italian-m-346-trainer-jet/

Brings back in memory the debate on BAE Hawk deliverances to the military regime. (See ENAAT pub https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8nHmbT0qNjWV254RFk0VzRDcGs/view?resourcekey=0-0SYaPU6KJqajLry7OKe15Q .and 2nd ENAAT booket on Indonesia https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B8nHmbT0qNjWOWRscFpKb0xpQXM/edit?resourcekey=0-JXbk2qZCgwu9G1iAPb191w

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Also Singapore chooses the tech from genocidal Israel.

#Singapore’s military is implementing new doctrines to counter swarms of low-cost #drones and boosting its drone capabilities by relying largely on #Israeli-made systems as the baseline of its fleet. https://www.defensenews.com/industry/techwatch/2026/02/05/no-strangers-to-drones-singapore-eyes-unmanned-surge-with-israeli-tech/

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Economics has been weaponized on a global scale

Right now, the US and China are locked in a struggle that looks nothing like the wars of the past. The stakes are existential with prosperity & national security on the line, not to mention global influence. https://warontherocks.com/2026/02/sun-tzu-in-the-supply-chain-the-new-face-of-economic-war-with-china/

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William Hartung and Benjamin Freeman, "Commentary: $1.5 trillion for the Pentagon is a recipe for waste and fraud."

"The costs of this military first foreign policy – in lives, tax dollars and the global reputation of the US – will be unacceptably high." https://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/us-viewpoints/article314555831.html

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"Guns out of Sardinia!" was the cry that rose this afternoon from Via Roma, where approximately 150 people, including union members and activists, gathered for the international dockworkers' strike against the transportation of weapons and war. A mobilization that involved ports across Europe and the United States, but which in Cagliari took a different form: here, the docks remained closed, while the protest moved to the streets. https://www.unionesarda.it/en/sardinia/ports-war-and-weapons-the-international-mobilization-also-passes-through-cagliari-v7j3wk6y

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Cracks are widening in the Gulf’s most powerful partnership as UAE companies pull out of a major Saudi defence show in Riyadh. Once seen as twin pillars of regional security, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are now locked in a quiet but escalating power struggle - from Yemen battlefields to oil policy and defence contracts. The withdrawal signals how deep political rifts are beginning to spill into business, trade and strategic cooperation, raising fears of long-term disruption in Gulf defence and investment ties." https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/international/gulf-power-shift-mbz-snubs-mbs-uae-firms-pull-back-from-saudi-world-defence-show/amp_videoshow/128016379.cms

The Canary reports the cracks in the alliance between the two autocratic nations in the light of support to Sudan by the UAE and the criticism from Riyadh. https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/02/09/sudan-attack/

February 6

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Nederlandse Bank verwacht geen significante groei van de economie door groei militaire uitgaven. Maar stelt opmerkelijk voor dit instituut dat de focus daar niet op moet liggen, maar op militaire veiligheid (zullen de verliezers door deze focus waarderen). https://www.dnb.nl/algemeen-nieuws/nieuws-2026/zet-extra-defensiemiljarden-gericht-in-voor-grootste-strategisch-voordeel/

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Maritime and offshore industry lobby evaluates the Government document by liberals of D'66, VVD and christian CDA positively also for the military and dual use part of the industry. https://www.maritimeoffshore.nl/nl/actueel/reactie-coalitieakkoord/

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Saudi Arabia may invest in Turkish fighter jet Kaan 'any moment', Erdogan says.

Ankara eyes more partners to share cost of fifth-generation fighter jet, with Azerbaijan and Qatar also interested.

https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/saudi-arabia-may-invest-turkish-fighter-jet-kaan-any-moment-erdogan-says

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Petro-euros

Germany's Merz promises arms cooperation as he seeks more Qatari energy. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/germanys-merz-shares-concerns-over-iran-escalation-gulf-trip-2026-02-05/

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Thales expand footprint in Singapore which includes military technology and repression, like the Centres of Excellence for avionics, defence, inaval drones, public security, radars and space. https://www.marketscreener.com/news/thales-strengthens-its-digital-core-in-singapore-ce7e5ad8d98ff324

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Special Operations Command #SOCOM invites industry, academia and laboratory groups to to explore how #AI can make its Integrated Survey Program #ISP quicker while also reducing the number of surveyors required to deploy across the globe in support of it. https://defensescoop.com/2026/02/05/special-operations-artificial-intelligence-survey-facilities-socom/

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The United Nations has welcomed signs of progress in talks aimed at reducing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo #DRC. The UN warns that despite diplomatic momentum, the security situation on the ground remains volatile. #M23 #Rwanda https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/02/05/42274

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Trumps storm troops branch #ICE has confirmed it will buy armoured vehicles made by Canadian #Roshel to support its operations.

Pressure mounts on Premier Doug Ford to cut Ontario ties to the controversial contract over ICE actions in the US. https://www.nationalobserver.com/2026/02/05/news/ice-confirms-armoured-vehicle-contract-ontario-company-ford-seeks-distance

Canada’s arms exports are hitting closer to home ICE in Minneapolis shows what Canada’s export loophole is built to allow.
https://themanitoban.com/2026/02/canadas-arms-exports-are-hitting-closer-to-home/51646/

February 5

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In connection with the Greenland threat the EU considered to use the Anti Coercion Instrument #ACI. A blog describes what ACI is and what companies can do to prepare in the event the ACI process is triggered. https://sanctionsnews.bakermckenzie.com/eu-anti-coercion-instrument-what-it-is-and-what-businesses-need-to-know/

February 4

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Transcript BBC Parliament broadcast of debate on #Damen (damen) harbour tugs acquisition in British Parliament. https://ln.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=805&DateTime=02%2f03%2f2026+07%3a45%3a27&Dur=296&PlayClip=true

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Many lost much or all, some win cash

While Israel has faced sharp criticism over its war in Gaza, start-up executives say foreigners are eager to buy systems developed and tested on the battlefield. https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2026/02/02/israel-military-defense-tech-gaza/

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Traveling salesman, the #German Chancellor Merz departs for an arms sales (and other itsems) trip to the Gulf region. First stop #Saudi Arabia. Tomorow Merz travels to #Qatar, and on Friday to the United Arab Emirates #UAE. https://www.zeit.de/politik/deutschland/2026-02/friedrich-merz-reise-golfregion-gxe

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Statement released on 2 February by the Undercover Policing Inquiry shows that multiple undercover police officers spied on anti-arms trade campaigners, including CAAT, because of the financial importance of the industry to the British state. https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/02/03/undercover-police-spied-on-anti-arms-trade-campaigners-and-exaggerated-their-threat-to-protect-the-arms-industry/

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Iranian Shahed-139 drone was shot down by an F-35C fighter jet from the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2026/02/03/us-shoots-down-iranian-drone-approaching-aircraft-carrier/

February 3

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FN Herstal clarified (https://www.lesoir.be/725838/article/2026-01-31/le-fn-303-une-arme-belge-entre-les-poings-de-la-police-migratoire-de-trump) that it had not sold any #FN 303 launchers to #ICE in the last 15 years. They added that the last ICE contract "dates back approximately three years" and concerns "303 projectiles, either paint or inert." https://www.lesoir.be/725906/article/2026-01-31/mise-au-point

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A group of Japanese people gathered in front of the MoD in Tokyo on Monday to voice their opposition to the government's sharp increase in defense spending and its continued push for the construction of a new US military base at Henoko in Okinawa.
https://www.bastillepost.com/global/article/5581737-japanese-rally-to-protest-against-pms-push-for-military-expansion CLIP

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Nigeria has maintained close security cooperation with the US, reinforced under Trump admin. That partnership has centered on intel sharing, training, & military assistance, even as US arms sales remain constrained by regulatory & human rights conditions. https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/nigeria-joins-african-states-navigating-defence-ties-between-us-and-turkiye/c14vfbj

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Capgemini besloot na politieke in Frankrijk om afstand te doen van een dochteronderneming die opsporingstech levert aan ICE. Naast de fossiele industrie en wapenhandel is er een nieuwe categorie bijgekomen om een zakenpartner op te beoordelen. https://www.groene.nl/artikel/van-caracas-tot-minneapolis

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NVL, the German Lürssen naval shipyard, announced that it is working intensively to take over the F126 project as general contractor within a few weeks. According to the statement, they have succeeded in untying the Gordian knot and successfully transferring the design data from the Dutch Damen shipyard into their own system. This has closed the interface between design and manufacturing, and together with Damen, paved the way for an accelerated ramp-up of production in the shipyard halls, the company wrote. https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2026/01/latest-situation-regarding-f126-and-meko-frigate-projects-in-germany/

Dutch press:

Damen is dicht bij afstaan controle over Duitse fregattenorder https://fd.nl/bedrijfsleven/1585389/damendichtbij-overdrachtfregattenorder-aan-duitse-werf

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#TATA Advanced Systems and #Airbus Heli's are poised to inaugurate #India's first Final Assembly Line (FAL) for the H125 helicopter at Vemagal in Karnataka.

This effectively dismantles the long-standing monopoly held by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd #HAL.
https://www.indiandefensenews.in/2026/02/tata-airbus-h125-assembly-line-set-to.html

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Germany wants to create domestic locations to promote military innovations. The model for these centers is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency #DARPA. This US agency, operating since 1958, reports to the Pentagon and develops advanced technologies such as lasers, AI, and robots for the US military in collaboration with industry, said Annette Lehnigk-Emden, head of the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw). https://www.handelsblatt.com/unternehmen/industrie/ruestung-drohnen-ki-start-ups-bundeswehr-eroeffnet-innovationszentrum/100196187.html

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US approves $15.7 Billion in potential arms sales for #Saudi Arabia, #Israel. The arms deals would need congressional #approval and could take years for the weapons to be delivered. https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/u-s-approves-15-7-billion-in-potential-arms-sales-for-saudi-arabia-israel-cffae615

@BernieSanders on the sales to Netanyahu. https://x.com/BernieSanders/status/2018447611829846455

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German customs arrested five men for allegedly violating EU embargoes on Russia by exporting industrial goods to Russian arms manufacturers.

The defendants arranged for around 16,000 deliveries to Russia, amounting to at least €30 million.
https://www.politico.eu/article/five-men-arrested-germany-suspicion-illegal-exports-russia-arms-firms/

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COTECMAR delivers 1rst Indigenously designed Ocean Patrol Ship to Colombian Navy. https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2026/02/cotecmar-delivers-first-indigenously-designed-ocean-patrol-ship-to-colombian-navy/

Plan is to equip it with 76/62 Leonardo gun and three light guns. https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/5378137/109-colombia-colombia-presenta-nuevo-patrullero-oceanico-poc-arc-24-julio

Cotecmar also build a frigate based on the Damen Sigma 10514 design

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Next European fighter jet program on the brink of collapsing?

Italy’s defence minister has claimed the UK isn't doing enough to share its cutting-edge tech with its partners on the 3-nation GCAP fighter program and called the alleged UK secrecy “madness.” https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2026/01/30/madness-italys-crosetto-slams-british-secrecy-on-gcap-fighter-jet/

A400M, Eurofighter, Tornado: Euro defence collaboration means disaster. Will we ever learn? UK Telegraph (voice for Euroscepticism) asks on failed European armament programs, included the prospects for the Tempest fighter aircraft. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/02/02/prime-minister-safe-europe-defence-disaster-collaboration/


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True? Who knows?

The Trophy Active Protection System, of #Israel’s #Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, will be supplied for Leopard 2 A8 #MBTs used by NATO members Lithuania, the #Netherlands, Czech Republic, and Croatia, the company announced. https://breakingdefense.com/2026/01/four-nato-nations-select-rafaels-trophy-active-protection-system/

February 1

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German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius considers it unlikely that the United States could remotely disable F-35 fighter jets or stop updating their software, as this would mean a complete collapse of US arms exports. https://www.ukrinform.net/amp/rubric-polytics/4086478-pistorius-rules-out-possibility-of-us-kill-switch-for-f35-jets.html


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