SOUTH AFRICA ACCUSED OF ILLEGALLY APPROVING MILITARY EXPORTS TO GROSS HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATORS

Peter Danssaert & Brian Wood

In March 2021 a South African non-governmental organisation, Open Secrets, released a detailed report accusing the government of approving military exports to armed forces alleged by UN experts to be perpetrating war crimes in Yemen. South African military exports to Myanmar, and the Philippines add to serious questions that the human rights clauses in South Africa’s post-apartheid arms export law are being circumvented with government approval.

The new report by Open Secrets, entitled ‘Profiting from Misery: South Africa’s Complicity in War Crimes in Yemen’ shows that the company, Rheinmetall Denel Munitions (RDM) – a joint venture of the German company Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH and the South African defence company Denel – has regularly supplied Saudi Arabia and the UAE with munitions of war before and since the civil war started in Yemen.

Since the outbreak of the civil war in Yemen the UAE and Saudi Arabia have become major clients for military exporters in South Africa. In 2010 the proportion of South African weapons exports going to the UAE and Saudi Arabia was a mere 8%, in 2016 it had increased to nearly 49%, and in 2020 still accountable for 31%. Largely due to increased sales to the UAE (2019: R330 million; 2020: R842 million). The majority of which munitions. RDM has also built munition plants in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.(1)

According to the National Conventional Arms Control Act the South African Government must (a) avoid contributing to internal repression, including the systematic violation or suppression of human rights and fundamental freedoms; and (b) avoid transfers of conventional arms to governments that systematically violate or suppress human rights and fundamental freedoms (art. 15 NCAC Act).

Moreover, the UN Group of Eminent International and Regional Experts on Yemen has asked States (since 2018) to refrain from providing arms and military support to the warring parties, and asserted that some States may be violating their obligations under the Arms Trade Treaty. The Arms Trade Treaty, to which South Africa is a party, prohibits the authorization of arms transfers with the knowledge that these would be used to commit war crimes. Continued support may amount to aiding and assisting internationally wrongful acts in contravention of international law.(2)

Recently Open Secrets and the Southern Africa Litigation Centre (SALC) launched an urgent application in the North Gauteng High Court (Pretoria) seeking the names of all permit holders that are authorised to export arms to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Thus, all permit holders can join the proceedings.

SALC and Open Secrets are asking the courts for a judicial review of the decisions made by the National Conventional Arms Control Committee (NCACC) to authorise arms exports to Saudi Arabia and the UAE despite their active role in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen and allegations of committing war crimes.

In June 2021 the High Court ordered the NCACC to serve the notice of motion, the founding affidavit and the annexures on all entities that hold, or have applied for, permits enabling arms exports from South Africa to Saudi Arabia and the UAE in order that the defence companies can join proceedings if they wish to.

Since 2017, South Africa has also been exporting military-related “electronic equipment” (e.g. rangefinders, transceivers, communication…) to Myanmar. In 2017, these exports were worth R61 million, representing 1.7% of all South African conventional arms exports for that year. South Africa’s military exports to Myanmar dropped to R35 million (representing 0.7%) in 2018, and then continued at R32 million (0.8%) in 2019, and R40 million (0.9%) in 2020. These exports were approved by the South African government despite Myanmar being under investigation by the International Criminal Court since 2019 for committing crimes against humanity against the Rohingya people.

In 2020 South Africa exported ammunition to the Philippines valued at R54 million despite detailed allegations of arbitrary killings by the security forces. Since 2017 UN experts of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights have repeatedly called for independent, impartial, credible investigations into the widespread and systematic killing of thousands of alleged drug suspects, and numerous human rights defenders in the context of the war on drugs.(3)

The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has recently requested to start an investigation of suspected crimes against humanity carried out by the security forces of the Philippines under orders of the government authorities: “The situation in the Philippines has been under preliminary examination since 8 February 2018. During that time, my Office has been busy analysing a large amount of publicly available information and information provided to us under article 15 of the Statute. On the basis of that work, I have determined that there is a reasonable basis to believe that the crime against humanity of murder has been committed on the territory of the Philippines between 1 July 2016 and 16 March 2019 in the context of the Government of Philippines “war on drugs” campaign.”

In the last quarter of 2020 South Africa exported communication equipment worth R88 million to Ethiopia despite reports that 2019/2020 was marked by intercommunal violence, repressive measures and human rights violations by the Ethiopian security forces in Oromia; in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples (SNNP) Region; Harari Region; and Amhara Region.(4) Early November 2020 the Ethiopian National Defence Forces (ENDF) and the Eritrean Defence Forces (EDF) began a military offensive against the Tigray Regional Government during which credible reports emerged of atrocities committed against civilians by the Ethiopian and Eritrean security forces.

In 2019 images of South African ‘Mbombe’ armoured personnel carriers in Libya were published. The vehicles, which are made by South African firm Paramount, are believed to have reached Libya via exports to Jordan.(5) In the minutes of the June 2020 meeting between the NCACC and the Joint Standing Committee on Defence (JSCD)‚ it is stated that the Chairperson of the JSCD had said that “there was no evidence that the military hardware manufactured in South Africa had ended up in Libya. What was in the media was just speculation over what was happening in the conflict areas of Syria and Libya. He believed that unless they felt it necessary to conduct an investigation into the matter, the NCACC should just monitor the situation to make sure that military hardware did not end up in the conflict areas”. The JSCD Chairperson expressed his support for the comments made by the NCACC Chairperson, Minister Mthembu, which were “(I)f South African weapons were reported in any way to be in Syria or Libya, it would be in the country’s best interest to investigate and find out how they got there, and who had messed up or misled the NCACC”. It is not known if the case is still under investigation.

The South African government has recently loosened the National Conventional Arms Control Regulations regarding on-site end use verification after protests by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The end use undertaking now reads “It is agreed that on-site verification of the controlled items may be performed, through diplomatic process”, instead of “It is agreed that on-site verification of the controlled items may be performed by an inspector designated by the Minister in terms of Section 9 of the Act”.

South African exports that pose a high risk of contributing to grave violations of human rights are not confined to military equipment. The South African Institute for Security Studies in a 2020 study reported that South African trade in law enforcement equipment that can facilitate torture and ill treatment remains unregulated.(6) Some South African companies manufacture or import this equipment for (re-)export, or act as brokers for international companies. Equipment includes shock batons, shock shields, stun guns, stun belts, thumb cuffs, sjamboks, less-lethal grenade launchers, less-lethal ammunition, hand and leg cuffs, pepper spray products, and tear gas products. Items were reportedly sold to law enforcement, security companies, correctional services or private individuals.

According to the Omega Research Foundation in the UK a number of South African companies have been promoting inherently abusive or other easy to misuse law enforcement equipment in Africa (Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Namibia, Nigeria, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, Zimbabwe), as well as in the Middle East (Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates), Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand), the Americas (Chile, United States), and Europe (Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom).(7)

The South African Government is likely to come under pressure from the courts and the parliament to explain why it thinks these exports are in compliance with the National Conventional Arms Control Act and the obligations in the Arms Trade Treaty.

Notes:

(1) Die Internationalisierung der Rüstungsproduktion, Rheinmetall und der Jemenkrieg, Antwort der Bundesregierung, Deutscher Bundestag, Drucksache 19/15403, 25 November 2019.

(2) A/HRC/39/43 (2018); A/HRC/42/17 (2019); A/HRC/45/6 (2020). See also Éric David, Daniel Turp, Brian Wood and Valentina Azarova: Opinion on the Legality of Arms Transfers to Saudi Arabia, The United Arab Emirates and other members of the coalition militarily involved in Yemen, December 2019, ASER/IPIS.

(3) OHCHR (2017): UN experts urge Philippines to stop attacks and killings in anti-drugs campaign ; OHCHR (2019): UN human rights experts call for independent probe into Philippines violations ; OHCHR (2020): Philippines: UN report details widespread human rights violations and persistent impunity.

(4) Ethiopia: ‘Beyond Law Enforcement’. Human Rights Violations by Ethiopian Security Forces in Amhara and Oromia, Amnesty International, 29 May 2020; “Ethiopia’s other conflicts”, The New Humanitarian, 23 November 2020; Ethiopia: Justice Needed for Deadly October Violence, Human Rights Watch, 1 April 2020; Human rights in Africa: Review of 2019, Amnesty International, 8 April 2020; Ethiopia: Rape, extrajudicial executions, homes set alight in security operations in Amhara and Oromia, Amnesty International, 29 May 2020.

(5) Libyan National Army forces receives Paramount Mbombe 6×6 from Jordan, 23 May 2019, AfricanMilitaryBlog ; Jordanian armoured vehicles spotted in Libya, 28 May 2019, DefenceWeb; SA company Paramount says it is checking if Jordan sold on armoured vehicles to Libyan forces, 3 June 2019, Daily Maverick; Libya: recently delivered Mbombe 6 armoured vehicle captured or destroyed, LNA’s capabilities questioned, 3 June 2019, AfricanMilitaryBlog ; NCACC to investigate SA defence equipment in Libya, 29 June 2020, DefenceWeb.

(6) G. Dube & N. Scott: The trade in tools of torture. A South African case study, Institute for Security Studies, 2020.

(7) Communication with Omega Research Foundation, 30 June 2021.

---

GENERAL

Exclusive database of multinational military equipment and technologies companies and their subsidiaries | 30 June 2021 | Army-Technology

The world’s leading military equipment and technologies companies operate an average of 92.2 subsidiaries each. We reveal the global hotspots for these operations.

Lethal Autonomous Weapons Exist; They Must Be Banned | 16 June 2021 | IEEE Spectrum

A chilling future that some had said might not arrive for many years to come is, in fact, already here. According to a recent UN report, a drone airstrike in Libya from the spring of 2020—made against Libyan National Army forces by Turkish-made STM Kargu-2 drones on behalf of Libya’s Government of National Accord—was conducted by weapons systems with no known humans “in the loop.”

Explosive weapons used in cities kill civilians 91% of time, finds study | 25 May 2021 | The Guardian

Civilians accounted for 91% of those killed or injured by explosive weapons in populated areas worldwide over the last 10 years – a total of 238,892 people – according to a study of thousands of incidents.

Analizan en libro tráfico de armas | 23 May 2021 | La Jornada

Expertos mexicanos encabezaron el esfuerzo de reunir en un solo libro las opiniones y experiencias de los mejores investigadores del mundo en los temas del tráfico de armas y la violencia. Según los autores, la obra, titulada Tráfico de armas y violencia, de la red global al desafío de la seguridad local, ofrece la posibilidad de establecer mecanismos más eficientes para el control de ambas problemáticas en diversas regiones del planeta.

Les filières multiples du trafic des armes légères | 17 May 2021 | areion24.news

Si les médias et l’industrie du film sont friands d’affaires internationales, impliquant des marchands d’armes sans scrupules qui organisent des transferts de surplus d’armements de l’hémisphère nord vers des zones de conflit, la réalité est bien plus complexe.

INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW / HUMAN RIGHTS LAW

UN report accuses Russian operatives of abuses in the Central African Republic | 27 June 2021 | The Hill

Investigators from the United Nations found that Russian mercenaries killed civilians, looted homes and fatally shot worshippers in mosques earlier this year during military operations in the Central African Republic, The New York Times reports.

What do Appropriate Due Diligence Measures for Nonstate and Substate Partners Look Like? Part I: Outlining Partnership Patterns and the Legal Debate | 14 June 2021 | Erica Gaston | Opinio Juris

What do Appropriate Due Diligence Measures for Nonstate and Substate Partners Look Like? Part II: A Sample of US Practice in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan | 14 June 2021 | Erica Gaston | Opinio Juris

In the last two decades, Western states have frequently worked with nonstate or substate armed groups to help confront security threats. The greater frequency of such partnerships has sparked interest in what measures states should take to address the their nonstate partners’ conduct and any risk of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) obligations flowing from that support. What legal obligations, if any, do Western states have to ensure that their nonstate or substate partners comply with international law or their own domestic standards? Even if only on a policy basis, what measures do states take to try to deter or prevent abuses or misconduct by supported groups?

Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Symposium: Conversations under the Rome Statute –Enslavement and Slave Trade | 11 June 2021 | Patricia Viseur Sellers & Jocelyn Getgen Kestenbaum | Opinio Juris

Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Symposium: Conversations under the Rome Statute–Enslavement and Sexual Slavery | 11 June 2021 | Patricia Viseur Sellers & Jocelyn Getgen Kestenbaum | Opinio Juris

We offer our sincere congratulations to the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) and to the Victims’ Representative of the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the conviction of Dominic Ongwen for crimes against humanity and war crimes, including slavery crimes. We also congratulate the UN Team of Experts of the SRSG on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict for raising the critical comparison of the international crime of the slave trade and the transnational crime of trafficking in the special issue of the Journal of International Criminal Justice (JICJ). While we recognize these advancements, what do these two laudatory events have in common? Not enough.

Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Symposium: UNODC’s Efforts to Address Challenges to Combat Trafficking in Persons, Especially for Sexual Exploitation | 8 June 2021 | Aimée Comrie | Opinio Juris

The link between sexual violence in conflict and trafficking in persons (TIP) has been at the forefront of UNODC’s technical assistance efforts for several years. It was the subject of a special Thematic Paper in 2018 and confirmed in our flagship Global Report on Trafficking in Persons – all of which outlined the necessity of integrating efforts to prevent and counter TIP firmly within the conflict and post-conflict responses.

Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Symposium: Innovations, Lessons Learned, and Good Practices From CIJA’s Investigation Into the Slave Trade | 7 June 2021 | Stephanie Barbour | Opinio Juris

The innumerable crimes in the conflicts in Syria and Iraq are among the most documented in history, yet justice is elusive for many victims – especially victims of sexual violence. There are many creative efforts underway to overcome the accountability gap, among them those of the private criminal investigative body for which I work, the Commission for International Justice & Accountability. In an article in the special edition of the Journal of International Criminal Justice marking the tenth anniversary of the UN Team of Experts on Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict, I share about the innovations and lessons learned in the course of CIJA’s largely, to date, out-of-view investigations of sexual and gender-based violence perpetrated by the Syrian Regime and Islamic State (IS).

The Importance of IHL Dissemination and Domestic War Crimes Prosecutions in Ensuring Respect for International Humanitarian Law | 1 June 2021 | Opinio Juris

The book that is the focus of this symposium, Ensuring Respect for International Humanitarian Law, is an important contribution to international law and practice. Generating respect for international humanitarian law (IHL) is one of the most difficult challenges faced by humanitarian actors nowadays and the book edited by Eve Massingham and Annabel McConnachie constitutes essential reading for academics and practitioners wishing to understand the many different aspects of the obligation contained in Common Article 1 (CA1) of the Geneva Conventions (GCs).

ICC Hints Foreign Fighters in Libya Could Face Prosecution | 19 May 2021 | Asharq al-Aswat

Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Fatou Bensouda told the UN Security Council on Monday that mercenaries and armed groups involved in the Libyan conflict could face prosecution.

AFRICA

Former South African president Jacob Zuma sentenced to 15 months in prison | 29 June 2021 | The Guardian

Jacob Zuma, the former president of South Africa, has been sentenced to 15 months in prison for contempt of court after failing to appear before a corruption inquiry earlier this year.

Egyptian MiG-29 deliveries concluded as Su-35 deliveries begin | 29 June 2021 | DefenceWeb

The Egyptian Air Force has taken delivery of all its MiG-29M/M2 fighter jets from Russia and has started receiving the first of two dozen Su-35 fighters.

Le Maroc se lance dans l’industrie de l’armement militaire | 29 June 2021 | Infomédiaire

Lors du Conseil des ministres de cette semaine, le Roi Mohammed VI, Chef suprême et Chef d’État-major général des Forces Armées Royales, a donné son approbation pour deux projets de décret relatifs respectivement à l’application de la loi relative aux matériels et équipements de défense et de sécurité, aux armes et aux munitions, et de celle ayant trait à la cybersécurité.

Coopération militaire : la France a remis un don d’équipements au Tchad | 29 June 2021 | Alwihda Info

L’armée française a remis lundi un don de 300 bâches à usage individuel qui serviront aux soldats tchadiens en opération. Le don a été réceptionné au ministère de la défense par le chef d’état-major particulier du département ministériel, le général Zakaria Gobongue.

Zambia Defence Forces unveil new armored vehicles and military equipment | 25 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

During a military parade that was held on June 13, 2021, to celebrate the founding of the National Defence Force, Zambia has unveiled a wide range of new military equipment and combat vehicles manufactured by China, Israel, and Russia.

Spanish Arms Sales to Morocco Totaled 12.5 Million Euros in 2020 | 23 June 2021 | Morocco World News

A report by the Spanish Secretary for Trade revealed a spike in Moroccan arms purchases from Spain, despite an overall decline in the country’s arms exports.

Egypt develops new local-version of French Sherpa Light 4×4 tactical vehicle | 20 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a Tweet released by Mahmoud Gamal on June 19, 2021, the Egyptian defense industry has developed a local version of the French-made Sherpa Light Scout 4×4 armored vehicle.

South African firms with permits to export arms to Saudi Arabia and UAE to be named | 15 June 2021 | TimesLive

A court on Tuesday ordered the National Conventional Arms Control Committee (NCACC) to provide a list of South African arms companies that have permits to export arms to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates — the first step in a longer court battle to stop the export of weapons to countries that NGOs say are fuelling the devastating conflict in Yemen.

Katmerciler from Turkey confirms contract to deliver 118 Hizir armored vehicles to Kenya | 5 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Turkish Defense company Katmerciler on its Instagram account, the company has confirmed a contract to deliver 118 Hizir 4×4 Armored Personnel Carrier vehicles to Kenya.

L’Algérie a commandé une corvette de fabrication chinoise de type 056 | 4 June 2021 | Maghreb Online

Selon les informations publiées par la base de données sur le commerce des armes du Sipri (Stockholm international peace research institute), l’Algérie a commandé en 2020 une corvettede type Pattani ou Type 056 de fabrication chinoise qui sera livrée en 2023.

Saudi, Dubai Fuel Firms Vie With Adnoc for Egyptian Army Company | 3 June 2021 | Bloomberg

Dubai’s state energy firm and Petromin Corp. of Saudi Arabia are taking on the likes of Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. by entering the bidding race for the first Egyptian army company being offered to investors, according to people familiar with the matter.

South Africa One of the Biggest Arms Suppliers to Saudis in Yemen War | 1 June 2021 | The Citizen

Relations between South Africa, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are on the up – a source of shame for the South African state. Despite being profitable and important for the African economy, these relations are deeply linked to the arms and military trade for the Arab nations involved in the war on Yemen, where several cases of human rights violations have been reported.

First Nigerian Super Tucanos to arrive in July | 31 May 2021 | DefenceWeb

The first six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will be delivered in July this year and the remaining six on order will arrive before the end of October.

Israeli experts to train operatives of newly-established NATFORCE | 30 May 2021 | Daily Post (Nigeria)

A team of security experts have arrived Nigeria to train operatives and management staff of the newly established National Taskforce on the Prohibition of Illegal Importation/Smuggling of Arms, Ammunitions, Light Weapons, Chemical Weapons, and Pipeline Vandalism (NATFORCE).

Merchants of death: Tactics criminals use to smuggle firearms into Nigeria | 29 May 2021 | Punch (Nigeria)

Criminals are hell-bent on making Nigeria unsafe with the diverse methods being used to smuggle firearms into the country. The country is currently battling insurgents, killer herders, robbers, kidnappers and bandits using sophisticated weapons to cause mayhem across states in the country. The security agents have been able to bust some of the gangs and their methods of smuggling firearms into the country while others albeit escaped their eagle eyes. There are viral videos on the arrested criminals, documenting the strange methods adopted to smuggle in the arms.

Egypt’s Military Production Ministry, South Korean DAPA discuss industrial cooperation | 28 May 2021 | AhramOnline

Egypt’s Minister of State for Military Production Mohamed Ahmed Morsy held talks in Cairo with Kang Eun-ho, Chief of the South Korean government’s Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) on Friday morning to discuss cooperation in various industrial fields

South Sudan’s Arms Embargo Still Crucial for Civilian Protection | 26 May 2021 | HRW

The United Nations Security Council should renew an arms embargo on South Sudan this week along with travel bans and asset freezes on designated government officials. With attacks on civilians and aid workers in South Sudan rising, the arms embargo – which expires May 31 – remains a crucial brake on further abuses.

Mi-8 and Mi-24 helicopters delivered to Central African Republic | 26 May 2021 | DefenceWeb

A Russian Air Force Antonov An-124 transport aircraft has delivered Mi-8MT and Mi-24V helicopters to the Central African Republic.

Cameroon sets fire to illegal weapons in anti-terrorism fight | 19 May 2021 | Xinhua

Cameroon destroyed some illegal firearms by fire on Wednesday as part of efforts to fight crimes and eliminate threats from terrorism in the Central African nation.

Lutte contre les armes légères : un atelier de restitution des résultats du projet CISALW à Abidjan | 18 May 2021 | Agence Ivoirienne de Presse

Un atelier de restitution des activités liées au résultat 4 du Projet d’appui à la politique nationale de contrôle du trafic et de la circulation illicite d’armes légères et de petit calibre et de prévention de la violence armée en Côte d’Ivoire par l’Union européenne (CISALW), se tiendra, mercredi 19 mai 2021, à Abidjan.

Curbing arms proliferation | 17 May 2021 | The Nation (Nigeria)

Residents of Onitsha in Anambra State were gripped with fear last Sunday, following the fall of a truck loaded with live bullets in the area. The Mercedes Benz 911 truck skidded off Awka Road in the early hours, when its driver lost control, spilling the cartons of the bullets into the drainage.

La Russie livre à la RCA 5.000 kalachnikovs mais pas que | 17 May 2021 | Sputnik

La République centrafricaine a reçu une nouvelle livraison d’armes de la part de la Russie avec notamment quelque 5.000 Kalachnikov. C’est la troisième livraison militaire en trois ans.

Cameroon takes delivery of military hardware for CAR peacekeeping mission | 17 May 2021 | DefenceWeb

Arquus Bastion APCs and equipment delivered to Cameroon UN peacekeeing detachment in Central Africa | 18 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Cameroon has received the first of two consignments of military equipment including armoured personnel carriers, 4x4s, trailers, and personal protective equipment for its troops taking part in peacekeeping efforts in the neighbouring Central African Republic (CAR).

Nigeria needs N826billion annually to combat insecurity | 17 May 2021 | Vanguard (Nigeria)

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters, Monday, said that at least $2 billion dollars (about N826 billion), would be needed yearly, to tackle the worsening insecurity in the country.

Arms deal graft trial against South African ex-president Zuma adjourned to 26 May | 17 May 2021 | DefenceWeb

A corruption case against former South African President Jacob Zuma and French company Thales related to a $2 billion arms deal was adjourned on Monday to 26 May, and his defence lawyer said Zuma would plead not guilty when the hearing finally starts.

South Africa’s Central Firearms Registry a complete mess | 16 May 2021 | Mybroadband

South Africa’s Central Firearms Registry (CFR) needs to move into the twenty first century with urgency and take the entire firearms application process online.

Seriti Commission judges could face misconduct charges | 12 May 2021 | DefenceWeb

Judicial Conduct Committee to probe Zuma-era arms deal commission whitewash by judges | 12 May 2021 | Daily Maverick

Complaint submitted to the Chairperson of the Judicial Conduct Committee (of the Judicial Service Commission) in terms of Section 14 of the Judicial Services Act 9 of 1994 regarding the conduct of Judge Willie Seriti and Judge Hendrick Mmolli Thekiso Musi (pdf) | 11 August 2020 | Shadow World Investigations & Open Secrets

The outcome of the Seriti Commission appointed by former President Jacob Zuma in 2011 to investigate possible fraud, corruption, impropriety or irregularity in the strategic defence procurement package (SDPP) for two national defence force services could see criminal misconduct charges brought against judges Willie Seriti and Hendrik Musi.

Don’t Sell Weapons To Nigeria, Buhari Has Islamist Agenda – Nnamdi Kanu Writes US President | 8 May 2021 | Sahara Reporters

Nnamdi Kanu Writes Open Letter To President Joe Biden | 8 May 2021 | Sahara Reporters

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, has written an open letter to the United States President, Joe Biden, asking him not to sell weapons or ammunition to Nigeria because of the several instances of mass killings and ethnoreligious violence under the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

How we spent $1bn to acquire weapons | 7 May 2021 | The Nation (Nigeria)

The Ministry of Defence on Friday gave further insights into how the controversial $1 billion released by President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration to procure arms was expended. The fund, it said, was released while waiting for the products’ arrival about three years after.

Rheinmetall Denel Munition inquiry concludes evidence gathering | 6 May 2021 | DefenceWeb

The inquiry into the fatal Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) on Wednesday completed its evidence gathering exercise, the Department of Employment and Labour has announced.

South African defence industry could double exports within 18 months | 3 May 2021 | DefenceWeb

The South African defence industry has not been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic like the aerospace sector has and could double exports within 12 to 18 months, according to the Aerospace and Defence Masterplan.

Tunisia launches another locally built patrol boat | 30 April 2021 | DefenceWeb

The Tunisian Navy has received another locally built patrol vessel under a partnership between the government and local private shipbuilding company Societe de Construction Industrielle et Navale (SCIN).

AMERICAS

Cada carretera de Michoacán puede ser usada en el tráfico de armas | 29 June 2021 | Agencia Quadratín

Estados Unidos es el principal proveedor y distribuidor de armas a México y Michoacán, sin embargo, ni las mismas autoridades del país más poderoso del mundo tiene certeza de cuál es la ruta o la mecánica del comercio, porque tanto la adquieren los grupos delictivos como los supuestos empresarios que se levantaron en armas y ciudadanos “hartos de la violencia”.

Lawmakers Tell Biden US Has ‘Moral Obligation’ to Ban Landmines | 23 June 2021 | Common Dreams

A bipartisan group of 21 lawmakers on Tuesday called on President Joe Biden to swiftly reinstate constraints on the use of landmines tossed out by the Trump administration and put the U.S. on a “definitive path” to joining an international treaty banning the use and stockpiling of the weapons.

Biden announces crackdown on gun trafficking | 23 June 2021 | Review Journal

President Joe Biden announced Wednesday he would crack down on rising crime rates and gun trafficking as law enforcement officials brace for what could be another violent summer.

The U.S. Needs to Enforce Its Own Laws on Foreign Military Aid to Colombia | 22 June 2021 | The International Affairs Review

Colombia’s ongoing national strike has shown no sign of slowing down. This mass movement, which began on April 28 in direct response to unpopular right-wing president Iván Duque’s “Sustainable Solidarity Bill”, has since expanded to address the many consequences resulting from decades of corrupt U.S.-backed governments.

El mercado ilegal de armas en México | 21 June 2021 | Razon

La industria de las armas se ha beneficiado directamente de la violencia y la inseguridad que se vive desde hace décadas en México gracias a la complicidad de gobiernos corruptos y en muchos casos de la alianza con la delincuencia y el narcotráfico.

U.S. Suspends $100M Weapons Package to Ukraine | 19 June 2021 | DefenseWorld

The Biden administration has reportedly temporarily suspended a $100 million worth military aid package to Ukraine that includes even lethal weapons. The National Security Council directed officials to put the package together, as Washington grew increasingly concerned over a massive Russian military buildup near the border with Ukraine and in the Crimean Peninsula.

The Strategic and Legal Implications of Biden’s New China Sanctions | 18 June 2021 | Lawfare

The Biden administration has steadily developed its grasp on the U.S.-China relationship. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with their Chinese counterparts for the first time in March 2021. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry completed his first sit-down with Chinese climate officials during a visit to Shanghai in April. And last month, Kurt Campbell, the National Security Council coordinator for Indo-Pacific affairs, announced that the era of “engagement” with China had “come to an end,” and that the “dominant paradigm” between the United States and China is now one of competition.

Brazilian 6th Armored Cav Rgt receives 4 more upgraded Leopard 1A5BR MBTs | 17 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

In 2009, the Brazilian Army purchased 250 ex-German army Leopard 1A5 tanks at USD 500m each, to be deployed along 16,000km of the country’s border, under the national defense strategy (NDS) programme.

La colombiana Indumil avanza en el desarrollo de su pistola Córdova PL de 9×19 mm | 17 June 2021 | InfoDefensa

La empresa colombiana Indumil (Industria Militar) ha finalizado con éxito la Fase 3 del desarrollo de su nueva pistola de percutor lanzado, la Córdova PL calibre 9×19 mm, uno proyectos que lleva adelante la firma con el objetivo de esta producir de armas cortas de fabricación enteramente nacional.

U.S. Senators want Commerce Dept to list tech to keep away from China | 16 June 2021 | Reuters

A group of 10 Republican U.S. senators on Tuesday urged Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo to direct her department to work faster to identify new American technologies that China’s government could misuse if exported to that country.

Some stolen US military guns used in violent crimes | 16 June 2021 | Associated Press

US Army has hidden or downplayed loss of firearms for years | 16 June 2021 | Associated Press

Pulling a pistol from his waistband, the young man spun his human shield toward police. “Don’t do it!” a pursuing officer pleaded. The young man complied, releasing the bystander and tossing the gun, which skittered across the city street and then into the hands of police. The pistol was U.S. Army property, a weapon intended for use against America’s enemies, not on its streets.

South Texas man indicted for manufacturing ‘ghost guns’ destined for Mexican drug cartel | 15 June 2021 | U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment charging a South Texas man for selling illegally manufactured and unregistered firearms suppressors destined for a Mexican drug cartel.

7 million bullets were stolen in a massive heist in Mexico | 15 June 2021 | The Yucatan Times

Gunmen hijacked two trucks hauling more than 7 million rounds of ammunition in central Mexico, a massive heist that could escalate fighting in one of the country’s most violent areas.

Venezuela finalizes modernization of 78 Scorpion 90 light tracked reconnaissance armored vehicles | 14 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the InfoDefensa website on June 14, 2021, the Army of Venezuela has finalized the modernization plan of 78 Scorpion 90, light reconnaissance tracked armored vehicles.

US offers M1117 ASVs 4×4 armored vehicles to Kosovo army | 14 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to the Defense Ministry of Kosovo, the U.S. has delivered at least five M1117 Armored Security Vehicles, Novosti reports. The armored vehicles were transferred last week, but this was reported only now. Kosovo Defense Minister Armen Mehaj examined the supplied armored personnel carriers at the Skenderbeu military base.

Guatemala invertirá más de 10 millones de dólares en la compra de 1.700 fusiles | 9 June 2021 | InfoDefensa

El Ejército de Guatemala ha lanzado la licitación de compra de 1.700 fusiles, calibre 5.56 por 45 milímetros, certificación bajo norma de la Organización del Tratado del Atlántico Norte (NATO, en inglés) por un monto de inversión de hasta 80 millones de quetzales o 10,4 millones de dólares.

FN America to supply US Army with additional M240 machine guns | 9 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The U.S. Department of Defense announced on June 8 that FN America LLC, Columbia, South Carolina, was awarded a $92,104,736 firm-fixed-price contract to procure M240 Series machine gun variants and spare receivers. One bid was solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of June 8, 2026. U.S. Army Contracting Command, New Jersey, is the contracting activity.

After 9th Circuit Mandate BIS Formally Assumes Jurisdiction Over 3D Printed Firearms Technology And Software | 9 June 2021 | Husch Blackwell LLP | JD Supra

On January 23, 2020, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (“BIS”) and the U.S. Department of State issued two final rules, available here and here. The final rules outlined the removal of specifically-identified firearms, ammunition, accessories, and associated technical data from the United States Munitions List (“USML”) and the creation of new Export Control Classification Numbers (“ECCNs”) to classify those same items under the Commerce Control List (“CCL”). While most of the transfer of jurisdiction from State to Commerce proceeded on the original effective date of March 9, 2020, the jurisdictional transfer of International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) “technical data” files for 3D-printed firearms to BIS was enjoined the same day by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington in a suit brought by 20 states and the District of Columbia.

US delivers artillery ammunition and navy radars to Estonia | 9 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

In early June, the United States delivered $14.9 million worth of 155mm artillery ammunition to the Estonian Defense Forces, and $2.7 million worth of mobile radars (AN/TSQ-288) to the Estonian Navy. Over the next several weeks, the U.S. Navy will support the Estonian Navy with technical training on the radars.

Former Texas Sheriff’s Deputy Sentenced for Straw Purchasing Firearms Smuggled to Mexico | 9 June 2021 | Sierra Sun Times

A federal judge sentenced Former Karnes County Sheriff’s Deputy Oswaldo Bernal today (June 7) to 32 months in federal prison for straw purchasing approximately 40 US DOJ firearms that were subsequently trafficked to Mexico.

American guns are a key driver in the migration crisis. When will the US address it? | 7 June 2021 | CNN

This week, US Vice President Kamala Harris will spend two days south of the border, during her first international trip to Guatemala and Mexico to meet local leaders and help address the root causes of undocumented migration.

Why does Mexico have the world’s ‘most violent’ cities? | 5 June 2021 | al Jazeera

In 2020, according to a report by the Mexico City-based Citizen Council for Public Safety and Criminal Justice, seven out of the ten “most violent” cities in the world were located in Mexico. The organisation ranks cities with populations of 300,000 or more – which are not in declared conflict zones – based on official tallies of intentional homicides.

U.S. Department of State Debars Seven Persons for Violating or Conspiring to Violate the Arms Export Control Act | 4 June 2021 | U.S. Department of State

On June 4, 2021, the U.S. Department of State published a Federal Register notice of seven persons statutorily debarred for having been convicted of violating, or conspiring to violate, the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2751, et seq.). This action, pursuant to section 127.7(b) of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) (22 CFR parts 120-130), highlights the Department’s responsibility to protect the integrity of U.S. defense trade.

Biden adds 59 Chinese companies – including Huawei and military firms – to investment blacklist | 3 June 2021 | RT

DOD Releases List of Chinese Military Companies in Accordance With Section 1260H of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 | 3 June 2021 | US Department of Defense

President Biden Revamps Communist Chinese Military Companies (CCMC) Sanctions Program | 7 June 2021 | Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP

President Joe Biden has signed an executive order barring Americans from investing in 59 Chinese firms, including telecoms giant Huawei and a plethora of arms manufacturers. The order builds on an earlier decree by Donald Trump.

China providing Venezuela with powerful military hardware | 3 June 2021 | ANI

Although the Venezuelan Navy has not been a top concern for the US Department of Defense, reports have emerged that China is supplying Venezuela with some rather powerful weapons that could shift the balance of power in the region.

BIS Issues Guidance on Export Controls Under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) Program | 3 June 2021 | Williams Mullen | JD Supra

The U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) Program offers government contractors and suppliers to the U.S. defense industry valuable access to markets outside the United States and to bona fide customers in those markets. The FMS Program also presents unique export compliance advantages over other means of selling products to foreign governments and entities, such as Direct Commercial Sale (DCS) and Foreign Military Financing (FMF) arrangements.

U.S. agency not doing its job to halt tech to China’s military -congressional report | 2 June 2021 | Reuters

2020 Annual Report to Congress | U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission

The U.S. Commerce Department is failing to do its part to protect national security and keep sensitive technology out of the hands of China’s military, according to a U.S. congressional advisory report seen by Reuters.

Bei Polizeigewalt in Brasilien werden Waffen aus Deutschland und der Schweiz eingesetzt | 1 June 2021 | terre des hommes Deutschland e. V. | Presseportal

Laut einer neuen Studie der Kinder- und Menschenrechtsorganisationen terre des hommes Deutschland und Schweiz in Zusammenarbeit mit dem Instituto Sou da Paz (Brasilien) hat die Polizeigewalt in Brasilien dramatische Ausmaße angenommen. Viele der Opfer sind Kinder und Jugendliche aus ärmeren Stadtvierteln, vor allem schwarze Jungen und junge Männer.

De la guerra contra las drogas a la guerra contra las armas | 29 May 2021 | CIPER (Chile)

El libro “Tráfico de armas y violencia: De la red global al reto de seguridad local”, debe ser examinado con atención por quienes piensan las políticas públicas latinoamericanas. Este artículo resume sus principales datos, hallazgos y recomendaciones. Una de ellas: pasar de la guerra contra las drogas a la guerra contra las armas. Y dado que la mayor parte de éstas se hacen en Estados Unidos, los autores recomiendan la creación de “coaliciones diplomáticas” que presionen a ese país para que regule mejor su industria de armas.

Rules-based international order must begin at home | 29 May 2021 | The Hill

President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Tony Blinken preach a rule-based international order as the cornerstone of United States foreign policy. The Biden and Blinken rhetoric on the paramountcy of international law in international relations is commendable. But it would be even more credible if the two followed their own piety.

La Secretaría de Defensa de México pone a la venta 1.500 armas en el mercado civil | 28 May 2021 | InfoDefensa

La Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional de México actualizó su catálogo de armamento y municiones dispuesto para la venta a civiles para fines de protección personal, caza y protección de inmuebles. La dependencia, a través de la Dirección General de Industria Militar y de la Dirección de Comercialización de Armamento y Municiones, ofrece en total 1.463 armas entre rifles, escopetas, pistolas y revolver.

New FDD report highlights significant gaps in Pentagon’s efforts to document Chinese military influence in the United States | 27 May 2021 | FDD

While the Pentagon has identified 44 Chinese companies operating in the United States with ties to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), a new Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) report sheds light on additional Chinese military-linked companies operating in the U.S. but have avoided examination, reflecting significant gaps in the Pentagon’s efforts to document Chinese military influence in America.

Ex-official in Bolivia charged for bribes in tear gas deal | 27 May 2021 | Idaho Statesman

Bolivia’s former interior minister has been arrested in the U.S. for allegedly taking part of $602,000 in kickbacks from Florida-based businessmen accused of selling tear gas at inflated prices to the conservative government of former interim President Jeanine Áñez.

Videos demuestran un uso “peligroso” del lanzagranadas Venom por la policía de Colombia | 26 May 2021 | France24

La policía colombiana ha usado lanzagranadas Venom varias veces en distintas ciudades del país para reprimir las protestas. Varios videos difundidos en las redes sociales muestran que esta arma ha sido utilizada de forma peligrosa por la fuerza pública, según varios expertos consultados por la redacción de Los Observadores de France 24.

The king of the arms dealers | 26 May 2021 | InkstickMedia

When it comes to trade in the tools of death and destruction, no one tops the United States of America. In April of this year, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) published its annual analysis of trends in global arms sales and the winner — as always — was the US of A.

La venta de armas sigue disponible en la Sedena; conoce los modelos y precios en el nuevo catálogo | 26 May 2021 | Linea Directa

La Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional -Sedena-, a través de la Dirección General de Industria Militar, así como de la Dirección de Comercialización de Armamento y Municiones, llevaron a cabo la actualización del catálogo de armamento dispuesto para su venta.

Desarticulada estructura criminal dedicada al tráfico de armas traídas desde Estados Unidos, para proveer a grupos armados ilegales en Colombia | 25 May 2021 | Radio Santa Fe

25 presuntos integrantes de la banda delictiva Diamante fueron capturados en diligencias simultáneas de allanamiento en 4 ciudades. De las 22 capturas realizadas por orden judicial, 18 se materializaron en Cali y 1 en Buga (Valle del Cauca), 2 en Bogotá y 1 en Medellín (Antioquia). Las 3 detenciones restantes se efectuaron en flagrancia en la capital vallecaucana.

Las FFAA de Ecuador destruyen más de 5.000 armas de fuego desde el inicio de 2021 | 24 May 2021 | Infodefensa

El Comando Conjunto de las Fuerzas Armadas del Ecuador, a través de su Dirección Logística y su Departamento de Control y Armas, han anunciado la destrucción de 5.514 armas de diverso calibre (entre ellas 482 armas no letales), así como de 5.764 accesorios y 3,22 kilogramos de perdigones, en desarrollo de las operaciones de control de armas, municiones y explosivos Camex.

Policía requisa 222 armas de fuego en La Libertad | 24 May 2021 | La Republica (Peru)

La Policía Nacional de La Libertad presentó esta mañana 222 armas de fuego que fueron entregadas por ciudadanos en la región de La Libertad para su internamiento en la Superintendencia Nacional de Control de Servicios de Seguridad, Armas, Municiones y Explosivos de Uso Civil (Sucamec) y no vayan a caer en manos de delincuentes para cometer delitos.

Sucamec afianza relación con su par en Chile para fortalecer el control de armas y explosivos | 22 May 2021 | El Peruano

Intercambio de experiencias ayudará en la prevención del tráfico ilícito de armas, el crimen organizado y la mejora del orden interno en ambos países.

En posesión de 15 armas de fuego tipo fusil atrapan a tres hombres en tramo carretero Sonoyta-Caborca | 22 May 2021 | Proyecto Puente

Oficiales de la Policía Estatal de Seguridad Pública (PESP) en coordinación con personal de Comercio Exterior incautaron 15 armas de fuego que eran transportadas ilícitamente en un autobús proveniente de Baja California, que tenía destino Los Mochis, Sinaloa.

En Cali cae banda que traía armas desde EE.UU. para grupos ilegales | 21 May 2021 | Caracol Radio

En cuatro ciudades de Colombia fueron capturadas 22 personas que hacían parte de una banda delincuencial que traía armas desde Estados Unidos, para proveer a grupos armados ilegales.

Sen. Bernie Sanders to introduce resolution of disapproval on $735 million U.S. arms sale to Israel | 20 May 2021 | The Washington Post

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) introduced a resolution on Thursday disapproving of the U.S. sale of $735 million in precision-guided weapons to Israel, according to a draft obtained by The Washington Post.

The United States must stop providing weapons used to repress Colombia’s protests | 20 May 2021 | Amnesty International

In Colombia, Violence Against Protesters Is Exploding | 19 May 2021 | Foreign Policy

In light of verified visual evidence by Amnesty International that United States weapons and equipment are being misused to commit human rights violations against protesters in Colombia, the human rights organization is calling on Secretary of State Blinken to immediately cease the direct or indirect supply, sale, or transfer of equipment used for repression such as small arms, shotguns, and related ammunition; less-lethal equipment, such as tear gas, riot control projectiles and launchers; armored vehicles, dual-use surveillance technologies, training, and any other technical or financial assistance.

US Army orders KrAZ 4×4 heavy duty vehicles | 19 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Ukrainian company AutoKrAZ has been awarded a 3-year contract to supply the U.S. Army Contracting Command with KrAZ 4×4 heavy-duty Vehicles and spares. The vehicles ordered include personnel transports, flatbed trucks, water- and fuel tankers.

Acusan a mujer e hijo de venta ilícita de armas a narcos en México | 19 May 2021 | Telemundo Utah

Una mujer de Utah y su hijo fueron acusados de comprar armas de fuego para luego venderlas al narco en la frontera con México, según informaron las autoridades.

The West is complicit in Colombia’s killings | 19 May 2021 | New Frame

The deadly violence by police and paramilitary groups against protesters in Colombia is made possible by the military aid of the government’s Western allies.

Chilean police accepts nine offers for 4×4 armored vehicle tender | 19 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The Chilean Investigative Police (PDI) accepted the proposals from Centurion Armor, Comercial Raptor, Consorcio 7M Group and GIG Abogados SpA, Ferexpo, Innova Tecnológica SpA, SFA Seguridad y Protección Limitada, TSD, Voin Solutions SpA and WLP in the act of opening of bids for the tender for the purchase of two 4×4 armored vehicles, Nicolas Garcia reports in InfoDefensa.

BIS Issues FAQs on Foreign Military Sales | 17 May 2021 | Smartrade | Thompson Hine LLP

On May 12, 2021, the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) issued a series of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) in an effort to respond to numerous questions from industry regarding the export of items that have been moved from the U.S. Munitions List under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to BIS’ Commodity Control List and authorized under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. BIS notes that the movement of certain items which were previously classified as defense articles under the ITAR over to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) as “600 series” items under the control of BIS “did not change the FMS Program.”

Important Takeaways for Exporters from Honeywell’s Consent Agreement with DDTC | 12 May 2021 | Torres Law, PLLC

On April 27, 2021, Honeywell International, Inc. (“Honeywell”) entered into a consent ageement with the U.S. Department of State Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (“DDTC”) for alleged violations of the Arms Export Control Act (“AECA”) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”). Specifically, Honeywell, a defense contractor based in Charlotte, North Carolina, allegedly exported and retransferred ITAR-controlled technical data without required authorization.

Alleged Aerospace Export Violations by Honeywell Lead to $13 Million Settlement Following Voluntary Self-Disclosure | 11 May 2021 | Robinson & Cole LLP | The National Law Review

Earlier this month, it was announced that Honeywell International, Inc. (Honeywell) had entered into a $13 million administrative settlement with the U.S. government to resolve allegations of export control violations related to aerospace and defense technical data (specifically engineering prints for castings and parts for aircraft, gas turbine engines, and military electronics).

Lessons from the SAP SE Settlement on the Benefits of Self-Reporting Corporate Export Control and Sanctions Violations (pdf) | 11 May 2021 | Jenner & Block LLP

U.S. Department of Justice Resolves First Action Under Export Control and Sanctions Enforcement Policy – Top Five Lessons Learned | 6 May 2021 | Sidley Austin LLP

Post It Notes and the SAP Non-Prosecution Agreement | 25 May 2021 | Thomas Fox | JD Supra

SAP Enforcement Action Underscores Importance of Ensuring Compliance Programs Address Considerations Associated with Business Partners and Identified Compliance Gaps | 26 May 2021 | Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP

On April 29, 2021, the Boston US Attorney’s Office announced that SAP SE, a multinational software company headquartered in Walldorf, Germany, entered into the first non-prosecution agreement under the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) revised Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy, announced on December 13, 2019.

Data Transfers Raise Serious Export Control Risk—Defense Manufacturer Faces $13 Million Penalty for Unauthorized Exports | 11 May 2021 | Ice on Fire Insights | Ice Miller LLP

Exporters often find it easier to focus on export compliance for items that are shipped internationally, which may be easier to track, than the flow of data or services, which in cloud computing environments, can be quite challenging to understand. This can create a regulatory compliance challenge because data and services are also subject to export controls— and in the defense sector, to controls flowing from the Arms Export Control Act (AECA), 22 U.S.C. § 2751 et seq. and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 22 C.F.R. Parts 120-130.

Man admits knowing of illegal cartel AR-15 trade | 8 May 2021 | Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette

A man pleaded guilty Friday in federal court for his knowledge of a scheme to ship and assemble guns to drug cartels in Mexico. Enrique Olivas, 32, pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony for knowing about a felony associated with an illegal scheme to send partly assembled AR-15s to Mexican drug cartels.

$10,000 stolen rifle recovered by Opelika Police, gun owners urged to secure firearms | 7 May 2021 | WRBL

A ten-thousand-dollar AR rifle stolen from a vehicle parked outside an Opelika restaurant has been recovered along with several other stolen weapons. Investigators are urging gun owners to secure their weapons before they end up in the hands of a criminal on the scene of a violent crime.

Zehntausende Pistolen für Kolumbien – mit Umweg USA | 4 May 2021 | Nürnberger Blatt

Es geht um fast 40.000 Pistolen: Der Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) verhandelt am Donnerstag in Karlsruhe über den illegalen Export der Waffen nach Kolumbien über den Umweg USA. Vor zwei Jahren wurden drei ehemalige Manager des Waffenbauers Sig Sauer deswegen vom Landgericht Kiel zu Bewährungs- und Geldstrafen verurteilt, der Gewinn in Höhe von 11,1 Millionen Euro sollte eingezogen werden. Gegen die Einziehung des Gelds zog Sig Sauer vor den BGH. (Az. 3 StR 518/19)

Chinese Military-Civil Fusion and Section 1260H: Congress Incorporates Defense Contributors | 4 May 2021 | Lawfare

One provision of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2021 requires the U.S. Department of Defense to publish an annual list of “Chinese military companies” (CMCs). Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo referenced the provision, Section 1260H, during her confirmation process as a way to handle the “substantial challenges China’s military-civil fusion policy poses to U.S. national security.” But while the 2021 NDAA required the list to be published starting on April 15, the report has not yet been released.

At the 2021 U.N. Programme of Action on Small Arms Meeting, the U.S. Should Get Real | 4 May 2021 | Ted Bromund | Heritage

The last meeting of the U.N.’s Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (PoA), held in 2018, violated the PoA’s principle of working by unanimous consent. The PoA has few, if any, achievements. U.S. participation in it merely lends it a credibility it does not deserve: The only reason for the U.S. to participate is to prevent the PoA from making bad decisions. Now that the PoA has abandoned the principle of unanimity that allowed the U.S. to prevent bad outcomes, the U.S should not participate in the 2021 meeting of the PoA unless the PoA is reoriented to focus on specific, realistic, and relevant goals.

Senators Seek to Clamp Down on U.S. Arms Exports | 4 May 2021 | Ice on Fire Insights | IceMiller LLP

On April 30, 2021, Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and six other senators introduced a bill to enhance human rights considerations before and after issuing U.S. defense manufacturers arms export licenses. This bill comes 11 days after Senators Menendez, Patrick Leahy (D-VT), and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) submitted a letter to the White House asking the Biden Administration to restore the Department of State’s export licensing control over certain firearms, such as semi-automatic rifles, under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) after the Trump Administration transferred them to the Department of Commerce’s less-rigorous export controls. Any legislative or administrative action spurred by these developments would likely impact export compliance programs for U.S. defense manufacturers, particularly those producing firearms and ammunition.

Honeywell to pay USD13 million to settle alleged export violations | 4 May 2021 | Janes

US-based Honeywell International has agreed to pay USD13 million to settle allegations that it illegally sent technical defence drawings to China, which is barred from receiving such sensitive information, according to the US State Department.

U.S. Army awards $146.8M contract to Oshkosh for tactical trucks | 3 May 2021 | Defence-Blog

The U.S. Army Contracting Command has awarded U.S. military truckmaker Oshkosh Defense a three-year extension to the FHTV IV contract and initial delivery orders valued at $146.8 Million.

Brazilian Navy receives first 6 UNIMOG U5000 trucks from Daimler AG | 3 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The Brazilian Navy has received the first 6 of 90 Unimog U5000 ordered from Daimler AG. They will be delivered to their user, the Integrated Command and Control System of the Brazilian Navy (Sistema Integrado de Comando y Control de la Marina de Brasil, Sic2MB).

U.S. Army fields advanced version of Stryker missile carrier | 3 May 2021 | Defence-Blog

According to a tweet from Ronkainen, the Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division have begun fielding their recently received M1253A1 Stryker vehicles.

US approves potential USD1.68 billion sale of heavy armoured combat systems to Australia | 30 April 2021 | Janes

The US State Department has approved a potential USD1.68 billion Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of heavy armoured combat systems, along with related equipment and services, to Australia.

ASIA

UN Security Council Should Impose Myanmar Arms Embargo | 29 June 2021 | HRW

In mid-June, the United Nations General Assembly urged member countries to halt arms transfers to Myanmar. It’s now up to the UN Security Council to formally impose a global arms embargo on the military junta that took power in a February 1 coup to help end the massive human rights abuses by the country’s security forces.

Myanmar army ‘tightens grip’ on multibillion jade trade | 29 June 2021 | al Jazeera

Myanmar’s military has further tightened its grip on the country’s jade trade, using the industry to finance the February 1 coup that plunged the country into turmoil, a new report released on Tuesday says, naming the son of army chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing as among those who directly profited from the enterprise.

How Israeli Arms and Know-how Fuel Global Environmental Crimes | 28 June 2021 | Haaretz

Environmental Protection Minister Tamar Zandberg has her work cut out for her: amending the Defense Export Control Law so Israel won’t be tied to activists’ murders and plundered natural resources overseas.

Taking Aim at the Tatmadaw: The New Armed Resistance to Myanmar’s Coup | 27 June 2021 | International Crisis Group | ReliefWeb

Following Myanmar’s 1 February coup, newly organised militias have launched attacks in several parts of the country in response to regime killings of demonstrators. These lightly armed bands have inflicted significant casualties on the security forces, who have struck back with heavy weapons and bombardment of residential areas.

Philippines to Buy 12 F-16 Jets, Missiles worth $2.6 billion | 26 June 2021 | DefenseWorld

Amidst human rights concerns, the U.S. State Department announced a potential sale of 12 F-16 fighter jets, 24 AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles besides 12 AGM-841-1 Harpoon missiles altogether worth $2.6 billion to the government of the Philippines.

Taliban gains drive Afghanistan gov’t to arm local volunteers | 25 June 2021 | al Jazeera

Desperate government launches ‘National Mobilisation’, which aims to arm local volunteers and resurrect militia groups to take on Taliban.

Myanmar forces seize arms cache near Mandalay -state media | 25 June 2021 | Reuters

Myanmar security forces seized a large cache of weapons on a truck bound for Mandalay this week, after arresting insurgents following a firefight in the second-biggest city, state media reported on Friday.

The Middle East: An Emerging Market for Chinese Arms Exports | 25 June 2021 | The Diplomat

China remains a marginal player in the region’s arms market, but its presence is steadily growing.

Can Saudi Arabia develop a major domestic arms industry by 2030? | 21 June 2021 | Middle East Eye

One of the world’s largest weapons importers, Riyadh wants at least half of its arms purchases to be from local sources by the end of the decade

Ordnance Factory Board to be split into 7 corporate entities | 18 June 2021 | Jagran Josh

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on June 16, 2021 cleared the corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). Following this, the existing 41 factories under the OFB will be split into seven new corporate entities.

China’s Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law | 17 June 2021 | Squire Patton Boggs | The Trade Practitioner

China Enacts New Law on Countering Foreign Sanctions | 11 June 2021 | Covington & Burling LLP

On June 10, 2021, the People’s Republic of China adopted the Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law (the “Law”). The main purpose of the Law is to provide a legal basis for China to adopt retaliatory measures against any so-called “discriminatorily restrictive measures” that may be imposed by foreign countries against Chinese organizations and citizens (the “Foreign Sanctions”). This means that Foreign Sanctions include not only OFAC sanctions, but nearly all restrictive measures mainly against China, such as the export control restrictions imposed on Chinese companies that are on the Entity and MEU lists under the EAR, and the security trading restrictions on the Non-SDN Chinese Military-Industrial Complex Companies by OFAC.

The Chinese Export Control Law. Compliance and Opportunity for European Companies | 14 June 2021 | Buse Heberer Fromm

The Chinese Export Control Law (ECL) was adopted on 17 October 2020 at the twenty-second session of the Standing Committee of the Thirteenth National People’s Congress after a long (about 4 years) preparation. The ECL came into force on 1 December 2020. The law affects both Chinese enterprises and foreign enterprises based in China, as well as foreign buyers. Therefore, an up-to-date overview of these legal provisions is important for European companies. Beneath we will set out the core principles of the new rules.

AK-12 Finds An Export Customer | 12 June 2021 | Strategy Page

Persian Gulf Arab nation Qatar was recently confirmed as the first export customer for the AK-12, the new standard Russian assault rifle. Qatari troops were seen carrying the AK-12 in a late 2018 parade and many Qataris commented, often via the Internet, that they had been seeing Qatari troops carrying the AK-12 since 2018. Qatar never officially announced that it was buying the AK-12 rifles.

Russia eyes arms sales to Iraq, but experts say there’s competition ahead for the Kremlin | 4 June 2021 | DefenseNews

Russian media reports are claiming Iraq is interested in purchasing S-400 and S-300 air defense systems as well as Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jets, but experts say Moscow is facing competition due to increased cooperation between Iraq and two regional powers: the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

Thailand receives VN16 amphibious assault vehicles from China | 4 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by Asia Pacific Defense Journal on May 31, 2021, the Royal Thai Marine Corps (RTMC) has received its first batch of three amphibious assault vehicles ordered from Chinese company Norinco to honor a contract worth US$12.6 million.

Infographic: What you need to know about Israel’s military | 4 June 2021 | al Jazeera

Last month, as Israel bombarded the besieged Gaza Strip for the fourth time in 12 years, the United States approved a $735m arms sale to Israel. The approval was criticised by legislators in Congress, and several Democrats introduced resolutions to block the sale of Boeing’s precision-guided missiles.

Bangladesh takes delivery of Turkish-made Roketsan TRG-300 MLRS rocket launchers | 3 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Bangladesh Defence Analyst website on June 3, 2021, the Bangladesh army has taken delivery of TRG-300 Tiger MLRS Multiple Launch Rocket Systems produced by the Turkish company Roketsan.

Hanwha Defense set to offer upgraded K9 self-propelled howitzer to British Army | 3 June 2021 | Korea IT Times

Hanwha Defense announced on Jun 3 that it has begun formal discussions with UK partners to arrange for a ‘Made in the UK’ variant of its K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer.

Australian Army receives first 25 Boxer 8×8 CRVs from Rheinmetall | 3 June 2021 | Army-Technology

In the first set of 25 Boxer 8×8 CRV vehicles, 13 are multipurpose and 12 are reconnaissance variants.

MFAT ignored advice weapons systems could be used in war-torn Yemen | 3 June 2021 | Radio New Zealand

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade approved the export of weapons systems sent to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) despite officials warning they could be used in Yemen.

China Revises Guidance on Developing Export Control Compliance Programs under the New Export Control Law | 2 June 2021 | White & Case LLP

On April 28, 2021, China’s Ministry of Commerce (“MOFCOM”) issued Notice No. 10/2021: Guiding Opinions on Establishing Internal Compliance Programs for Export Control by Exporters of Dual use Items (the “Guiding Opinions”).1 This reference document is the first implementing rule of the Export Control Law (“ECL”)2 enacted on December 1, 2020. It provides guidance to establishing an internal Export control Compliance Program (“ECP”) under the new legal framework.

India plans to procure 1,700 Future Ready Combat Vehicles to replace T-72M Ajeya tanks | 1 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a Request for Information (RFI) published by the Indian MoD (Ministry of Defense) on June 1, 2021, India would like to procure 1,700 Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) that would replace the old Russian designed T-72M/M1 Ajeya MBTs.

Israel – Les exportations militaires ont dépassé 8,3 milliards de dollars en 2020 | 1 June 2021 | 20minutes

Les principaux clients de l’industrie de l’armement israélienne sont l’Inde, le Canada, le Vietnam et l’Azerbaïdjan.

Indonesia reveals USD125 billion military modernisation plan | 1 June 2021 | Janes

A draft regulation from Indonesia’s presidential office has outlined the requirement for investment of USD125 billion in military modernisation through to the mid-2040s. The funding proposal is indicative of Indonesia’s military ambitions and its growing concerns about regional security.

Myanmar: Thai State-Owned Company Funds Junta | 25 May 2021 | HRW

Thailand’s majority state-owned oil and gas company, PTT, is partnering with military-linked companies to expand its engagement in Myanmar, Human Rights Watch said today. This growth comes on top of the half a billion dollars PTT already pays annually to junta-controlled enterprises through its existing operations in Myanmar’s gas fields.

How did Hamas grow its arsenal to strike Israel? | 20 May 2021 | The Associated Press

In this fourth war between Israel and Gaza’s Hamas rulers, the Islamic militant group has fired more than 4,000 rockets at Israel, some hitting deeper in Israeli territory and with greater accuracy than ever before.

Arms embargo on all sides essential to help bring peace and safeguard human rights in Israel | 19 May 2021 | Amnesty International | Daily Maverick

The violence in Jerusalem is not a scuffle, a clash, or the consequence of a mere property dispute, as described in some media. What is taking place is the denial of human rights on a mass scale. The international community and UN Security Council members must publicly denounce violations of humanitarian law and pressure all sides to the conflict to protect civilians.

Notorious Myanmar Arms Broker Joins Military Leaders on Russia Trip | 19 May 2021 | The Irrawaddy

The Myanmar junta sent a high-ranking military delegation to Moscow this week. Air force chief General Maung Maung Kyaw led the team and was accompanied by other high-ranking military officers.

Asian supply chain pact takes aim at China | 19 May 2021 | Global Trade Review

A move by India, Japan and Australia last month to collectively boost supply chain resilience could eventually squeeze China out of the trio’s supply chains for sectors such as semiconductors, batteries and rare earths, experts say.

New variant of Boxer 8×8 armored fitted with RT60 turret for Middle East customer | 19 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a tweet published by Nicholas Drummond on May 19, 2021, German company ARTEC, a joint venture of Kraus-Maffei Wegmann and Rheinmetall Defense has developed a new variant of the Boxer 8×8 wheeled armored IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle) for a Middle East customer fitted with a remote weapon station Protector RT60 from Norwegian company Kongsberg defense.

US approves Turkey sale of helicopters to Philippines | 18 May 2021 | Middle East Monitor

The United States has approved Turkey’s decision to sell military helicopters to the Philippines in defiance of Congressional opposition, Turkish officials reportedly revealed yesterday.

Turkey poised to proceed with purchases of Russian weapons | 18 May 2021 | Ahval

Turkey is planning to buy more Russian military weapons even amid opposition from the United States, the Voice of America reported on Monday. Ankara has already made a deal with Moscow to buy more air defence missiles, VOA said, citing a source close to the government.

US reportedly approves sale of precision-guided weapons to Israel | 18 May 2021 | Army-Technology

US President Joe Biden’s administration has reportedly given clearance for the potential sale of precision-guided weapon”s to Israel for an estimated cost of $735m.

Which countries and companies are selling weapons to Israel? | 18 May 2021 | Middle East Eye

For over a week, Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip with bombs, claiming it is targeting Hamas “terrorists”. But residential buildings, book stores, hospitals and the main Covid-19 testing lab have also been flattened.

China’s Norinco, CETC to deepen co-operation on military systems | 18 May 2021 | Janes

Two of China’s largest defence industrial enterprises – the China North Industries Group Corporation (Norinco Group) and the China Electronics Technology Group (CETC) – have signed an agreement to deepen collaboration on military technologies.

Chinese Army Inducts New Armored Vehicles, Howitzers & Rocket Launchers | 17 May 2021 | DefenseWorld

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA)’s Xinjiang Military Command has taken delivery of three new advanced weapon systems – armored vehicles, howitzers and self-propelled rocket launchers – over the past week.

Australia defies UN pleas over atrocities in Yemen, escalates weapons exports to Saudis | 17 May 2021 | Michael West News

Documents released under Freedom of Information reveal Australia approved 103 military export permits to UAE and Saudi during the Yemen war – and denied just three permit applications. Michelle Fahy investigates Australia’s escalating export trade in weapons with the Saudi dictatorship, in defiance of its international commitments.

Philippine Navy to receive first three Shaldag Mk V patrol boats in Q1 2022 | 17 May 2021 | Janes

The Philippine Navy (PN) is expecting to receive the first three of eight Shaldag Mk V fast patrol boats ordered from Israel Shipyards in the first quarter of 2022, the state-owned Philippine News Agency (PNA) quoted PN Chief Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo as saying on 14 May.

New Details of Hamas’ Rockets Emerge | 14 May 2021 | DefenseWorld

New details have emerged of Hamas’ rockets which were fired at Israel since the latest confrontation began between the Middle East’s most formidable military and the Iran-supported militia group in Gaza.

China’s MOFCOM Issues Internal Export Control Program Guidelines | 13 May 2021 | Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP | JD Supra

China Releases Guidelines on How to Develop Export Control Compliance Programs | 12 May 2021 | Crowell & Moring LLP

Convergence in China’s New Export Compliance Guidelines | 19 May 2021 | DLA Piper

On April 28, 2021, China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) published The Guiding Opinions on the Establishment of an Internal Compliance Program for Export Control by Exporters of Dual-use Items (Opinions) along with a 35-page Guidelines for Internal Compliance of Export Control of Dual-use Items (Guidelines).

Philippine army orders GAZ Sadko Next troop carrier trucks | 10 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to MaxDefense Philippines, the Philippine Army has released a Notice of Award (NOA) for the supply of 90 Troop Carrier Light trucks to Conequip Philippines, which is a dealer of the Russian truck brand GAZ.

PRC Ministry of Commerce Announce Export Control Internal Compliance Guidelines | 10 May 2021 | Baker McKenzie

China’s Export Control Law (“ECL”) came into effect on 1 December 2020, providing a framework to a series of separate administrative regulations on export controls issued prior to the law’s enactment.

PLAGF brigade under Xinjiang Military Command receives new PHL-03 MRLs | 10 May 2021 | Janes

Chinese state-owed media has revealed that an artillery brigade with the People’s Liberation Army Ground Force’s (PLAGF’s) Xinjiang Military Command has received new PHL-03 multiple rocket launchers (MRLs).

ADASI from UAE has developed RASH 2M to convert mortar ammunition to precision-guided munition | 10 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The UAE-based company ADASI, a subdivision of EDGE, has developed and designed the RASH 2M, a kit to convert mortar ammunition to precision-guided munition. ADASI has secured a contract of $15 million to supply Rash 2 to the UAE Armed Forces, marking the first order of the newly launched product.

US Navy seizes large weapons shipment in Arabian Sea | 10 May 2021 | Janes

The crew of US Navy cruiser USS Monterey seized a large shipment of weapons after stopping and searching a dhow in the north of the Arabian Sea on 6-7 May, with the US 5th Fleet saying it included thousands of Chinese Type 56 assault rifles and hundreds of PKM machine guns, sniper rifles, and rocket launchers.

10 Japan firms may have links with Myanmar’s military junta | 9 May 2021 | Kyodo News

At least 10 Japanese companies have had direct business ties with firms affiliated with Myanmar’s military or have taken part in projects that could be sources of income for the junta, a Kyodo News investigative team found recently.

Rights group says Israel may still be arming Myanmar; NGOs call for arms embargo | 8 May 2021 | Times of Israel

Israel’s police training and vehicle supplies ended in 2017, but deliveries of surveillance equipment may be ongoing amid coup, Amnesty International official says.

China issued Export Compliance Guidelines for dual-use items | 7 May 2021 | Dentons | JD Supra

On April 28, 2021, Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) issued Announcement No. 10 “Guiding Opinions of Ministry of Commerce on Establishing the Internal Compliance Program for Export Control by Exporters of Dual-use Items” (the “Compliance Guideline”). The Compliance Guideline substitutes the previous 2007 MOFCOM opinions and provides specific guidelines and suggestions for exporters to establish export compliance programs as the Export Control Law became effective on December 1, 2020.

More than 200 NGOs call for UN arms embargo on Myanmar | 6 May 2021 | The Associated Press

More than 200 global organizations urged the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday to impose an arms embargo on Myanmar, saying the time for statements has passed and immediate action is needed to help protect peaceful protesters against military rule and other opponents of the junta.

Turkish army to receive more FNSS Pars and Kaplan antitank armoured vehicles | 3 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Within the scope of the STA Project signed between SSB and FNSS in 2016, a total of 260 vehicles, including 184 Kaplan and 76 Pars were purchased for the Turkish armed forces. According to a tweet from DefenceHub, these figured have reportedly been increased: a total of 344 vehicles, including 208 Kaplan and 136 Pars will be procured, DefenceHub reports. All tracked and wheeled platforms and turret systems are expected to be included in the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces by 2022.

Soldiers intercept 6K rounds of ammunition in Maguindanao | 3 May 2021 | PNA

Soldiers manning a checkpoint intercepted some 6,000 live rounds for M16 rifle and similar semi-automatic firearms allegedly intended for the lawless Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) operating in the province, the military said Monday.

Indian army would like to acquire 350 light tanks weighing less than 25 tons | 30 April 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The Indian army has issued a new RFI (Request For Information) to acquire 350 light tanks weighing less than 25 tons. This request comes after the clash with the Chinese army near the disputed Pangong Lake in Ladakh and the Tibet Autonomous Region, and near the border between Sikkim and the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Myanmar’s Anti-Junta Protesters Turning to Rebel Armies for Military Training | 28 April 2021 | VoA

“We train people who want to be trained and who want to fight against the military regime,” said Maj. Gen. Nerdah Bo Mya, chief of staff of the Karen National Defense Organization, an armed wing of the KNU.

Iraq Is Making Its Own Small Chinese Rockets | 23 April 2021 | 21^st Century Asian Arms Race

Despite scant media coverage the ninth installment of IQDEX, which is the only genuine arms show in Iraq, had ample surprises for participants and visitors alike. For starters, the organizers–with the full cooperation of the defense ministry–wished to emphasize the progress being made in the military-industrial sector. Refurbished heavy weapons, among them a D30 howitzer, were displayed outside the venue. These belonged to the Iraqi Military Industrialization Corporation, also known as the IMIC, and its actual products included the Chinese Type 63 rocket launcher or “tubular rocket launcher 107.”

EUROPE

Foreign minister James Cleverly accused of breaking UK Ministerial Code over arms to Israel | 30 June 2021 | Daily Maverick

Britain’s Middle East minister James Cleverly is regularly refusing to provide answers to written questions posed to him by members of parliament, especially on UK arms exports to Israel, contravening House of Commons rules.

Verteidigungsministerium beauftragt Ausbau der Fähigkeiten von 154 Schützenpanzern PUMA | 29 June 2021 | Krauss-Maffei Wegmann GmbH & Co. KG | Pressebox

Die Projekt System & Management GmbH (PSM), ein Joint Venture von Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) und Rheinmetall, hat mit dem Ausrüstungsamt der Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) einen Vertrag zur Nachrüstung von 154 Schützenpanzern PUMA geschlossen, die sich bei der Bundeswehr in Nutzung befinden.

Des améliorations dans le contrôle des exportations d’armes | 28 June 2021 | Tribune de Geneve

Les exportations de matériel de guerre sont mieux contrôlées, selon le Contrôle fédéral des finances (CDF). Mais certains points restent ouverts, indique un rapport publié lundi. La Confédération estime elle que les correctifs ont été apportés.

£17bn of UK arms sold to rights’ abusers | 27 June 2021 | The Guardian

Weapons licensed for export to two-thirds of states on ‘not free’ register, including Libya, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Revealed: The secret Whitehall committee that holds ‘no records’ | 24 June 2021 | Daily Maverick

Declassified has discovered a secret UK government committee that held meetings with an arms dealer, former oil executive and ex-spy — but parliament is told there are ‘no records’ of what was discussed.

The controversial lucrative business of Swiss arms deals | 23 June 2021 | SwissInfo

While much of the economy is still reeling from the pandemic, the Swiss arms industry has posted record exports figures. Yet it often deals with disreputable business partners. Parliament, now facing the threat of a people’s initiative, is seeking to tighten the screws on weapon exporters.

Quatre ONG déposent une pétition au Parlement wallon pour plus de transparence sur les ventes d’armes | 21 June 2021 | RTBF

À l’occasion du neuvième anniversaire, lundi, du décret wallon relatif à l’importation, à l’exportation, au transit et au transfert d’armes civiles et de produits liés à la défense, Amnesty International, la Coordination Nationale d’Action pour la Paix et la Démocratie (CNAPD), la Ligue des droits humains (LDH) et Vredesactie ont déposé une pétition auprès du Parlement wallon. Objectif : être auditionnées sur le manque de transparence de la Wallonie en matière d’octroi de licences d’exportation d’armes.

Serbia’s Arms Factory Stops Work After Explosion Wounds Workers | 21 June 2021 | Balkan Insight

Serbia’s Sloboda arms factory has halted operations until further notice after an explosion, the second in only a few weeks, injured three of the workers.

Russian army to receive new artillery systems including 2S43 Malva and Flox 120mm mortar | 18 June 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information from the Russian press agency TASS, the Russian armed forces will receive new artillery arms in the coming years, including self-propelled gun 2S43 Malva, Flox 120mm self-propelled mortar system, Magnolia 120mm tracked self-propelled mortar and Drok 82mm wheeled 4×4 mortar carrier vehicle.

Russia to Deliver 11 Su-35 Jets to Egypt this year? | 17 June 2021 | DefenseWorld

Russian Sukhoi Corporation is likely to deliver 11 Su-35 jets to export customers and 4 Su-57 stealth aircraft to the Russian Ministry of Defense, the country’s Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Borisov indicated during his visit to the Gagarin Aviation Plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur on Wednesday.

« Nous avons refusé du matériel de maintien de l’ordre pour la police de Hong Kong » explique le porte-parole du ministère des Armées | 17 June 2021 | PublicSénat

Signataire du Traité sur le commerce des armes, la France est parfois critiquée pour ses ventes, à l’Arabie saoudite notamment, engagée dans la guerre au Yémen. La France respecte-t-elle les traités ? Comment sont délivrées les licences d’exportation ? Et doit-on renforcer le contrôle du Parlement sur les ventes ? Hervé Grandjean, porte-parole du ministère des Armées était l’invité de Jérôme Chapuis dans Un monde en docs.

Rüstungsgüter für mehr als 30 Millionen Euro für Saudi-Arabien | 15 June 2021 | Boerse

Die Bundesregierung hat seit Ende Oktober 2020 Rüstungsexporte im Wert von mehr als 30 Millionen Euro an Saudi-Arabien genehmigt. Das geht aus einer Antwort des Bundeswirtschaftsministeriums auf eine Anfrage der Linken-Bundestagsabgeordneten Sevim Dagdelen hervor, die der Deutschen Presse-Agentur vorliegt.

EU to impose stricter export controls on cyber-surveillance items | 15 June 2021 | Reuters

Following the Council of the European Union’s (Council) adoption of an updated regulation on May 10, 2021 (Updated Regulation), the European Union (EU) is set to expand its Dual-Use Regulation (Council Regulation (EC) No 428/2009, as amended) to authorize restrictions on exports of items that could be used to support human rights abuses, with a focus on “cyber-surveillance items,” among other changes.

NTE 2021/07: licences for strategically controlled items – Guidance | 11 June 2021 | UK Department for International Trade

HMRC has made us aware that exporters are experiencing delays at UK borders with some shipments of controlled dual-use items that require strategic export authorisation. The delays relate to incorrect licence references on commercial documentation.

The Recast Dual Use Regulation – A Missed Opportunity | 11 June 2021 | Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP | JD Supra

On 11 June 2021 the European Union (the “EU”) published Regulation (EU) 2021/821 (the “Recast Regulation”) in its Official Journal, which marked the final step with respect to modernizing its existing dual use legislation under Council Regulation (EC) No 428/2009 (the “EU Dual Use Regulation”). The Recast Regulation will enter into force 90 days after its publication in the Official Journal, meaning that it will commence on 9 September 2021.

Rapport au Parlement 2021 sur les exportations d’armement de la France : que retenir ? | 11 June 2021 | IRIS

Le ministère des Armées vient de remettre au Parlement son dernier rapport annuel sur les exportations d’armement de la France. Quelle position occupe aujourd’hui la France sur le marché de l’armement ? Quels sont les principaux éléments à retenir de ce rapport ? Gaspard Schnitzler, chercheur à l’IRIS, revient sur la politique française en matière d’exportation d’armement ainsi que les enjeux économiques et géopolitiques qu’elle sous-tend.

Rapport sur les ventes d’armes françaises : Partialité et opacité | 10 June 2021 | Parti Communiste Français

Le rapport annuel du ministère des Armées sur les exportations d’armes françaises dans le monde vient d’être publié le 1er juin. Il s’inscrit dans le cadre d’une montée des tensions internationales mais aussi d’une nouvelle vague de militarisation qui vise à renforcer le camp occidental et à légitimer les idéologies guerrières. En dépit de quelques avancées, ce document reste opaque et incomplet ne permettant pas d’apprécier la légalité de ces ventes.

Le rapport sur les exportations d’armes de la France au Parlement: Rien ne change, silence des parlementaires | 7 June 2021 | Action Sécurité Ethique Républicaines

La sortie du rapport sur les exportations d’armes au Parlement nous rappelle que chaque année en France il n’existe pas de débat parlementaire sur cette question. Cette carence envoie deux signaux aux pays membres de l’Union européenne, aux États membres de l’Arrangement de Wassenaar et aux États parties du traité sur le commerce des armes (TCA) des Nations Unies: soit le gouvernement français n’a pas confiance en son Parlement ou le néglige soit il a honte de sa politique de vente d’armes.

Boxer für Großbritannien – Serienanlauf beginnt planmäßig am Rheinmetall-Standort Kassel | 7 June 2021 | Rheinmetall | PresseBox

Bewegung im britischen Boxer-Vorhaben: Am Rheinmetall-Standort Kassel haben planmäßig die Schweißarbeiten für die Prototypenfertigung und den Serienanlauf des Mechanized Infantry Vehicle (MIV) begonnen. Damit geht das bedeutende britische Radpanzer-Rüstungsvorhaben unter industrieller Verantwortung der Konsortialgesellschaft Artec GmbH, einem Joint Venture von Rheinmetall und Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW), nun in die entscheidende Phase.

Explosions rock Serbian ammunition plant, no casualties | 4 June 2021 | Reuters

A series of explosions rocked an ammunition plant’s facilities in the Serbian town of Cacak in the early hours of Friday morning, but there were no reports of casualties, local media said.

Taking back control – all you need to know but never dared to ask about the UK sanctions regime | 4 June 2021 | Gowling WLG

The widely condemned ‘diversion’ of the Athens-Vilnius flight to Minsk, Belarus, has focused attention on the issue of sanctions. From a business perspective, the post-Brexit independent UK sanctions regime presents a fresh compliance challenge.

Ständerat beschliesst strengere Regeln für Waffenexporte – und lässt Parmelin abblitzen | 3 June 2021 | Watson

Rüstungsbranche warnt vor Korrekturinitiative | 3 June 2021 | SRF

Debatte Ständerat “Gegen Waffenexporte in Bürgerkriegsländer. Volksinitiative” | 3 June 2021 | Das Schweizer Parlament

Volksinitiative “Gegen Waffenexporte in Bürgerkriegsländer” | 5 March 2021 | Das Schweizer Parlament

Allianz gegen Waffenexporte in Bürgerkriegsländer

Der Ständerat will in einem Gesetz regeln, unter welchen Bedingungen Kriegsmaterial exportiert werden darf. Er hat zudem den Gegenvorschlag des Bundesrats zur Korrekturinitiative verschärft und einen Artikel gestrichen, der es dem Bundesrat in Eigenregie erlauben würde, Ausnahmen vom Gesetz vorzusehen.

France / rapport annuel sur les exportations d’armement en 2020. Aucune avancée notoire en matière de transparence | 3 June 2021 | Amnesty International France

Le ministère des Armées vient de rendre public son rapport annuel sur les exportations d’armements effectuées en 2020, un document incomplet et pourtant indispensable pour interroger la légalité des ventes d’armes françaises.

Les exportations d’armement français ont diminué de 41 % en 2020 | 2 June 2021 | Le Monde

Ventes d’armes : l’Arabie Saoudite devient le premier client de la France | 2 June 2021 | Libération

French Arms Exports, 2020 | 6 June 2021 | SLDinfo

Rapport au Parlement 2021 sur les exportations d’armement de la France | 2 June 2021 | Ministère des Armées

Une chute spectaculaire, principalement due à la crise sanitaire mondiale et qui « ne traduit pas une tendance de fond », assure le ministère des armées : les exportations d’armement français ont diminué de près de 41 % en 2020, selon un rapport annuel remis au Parlement mardi 1er juin.

Siete detenidos en Valladolid en una operación contra el tráfico ilegal de armas | 1 June 2021 | SoriaNoticias

Agentes de la Policía Nacional han llevado a cabo una investigación, en el marco de la ‘Operación Ansúrez’, en la que se ha detenido a siete personas (tres en Valladolid capital, dos en Medina del Campo y dos en Matapozuelos) por su presunta participación en los delitos de tenencia ilícita de armas prohibidas y depósito de municiones.

CZG firearms manufacturer from Czech Republic confirms acquisition approvals of Colt Canada | 29 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Česká zbrojovka Group SE (“CZG” or “the Group”; PSE: CZG) firearms manufacturer of the Czech Republic announced on May 24, 2021, that, after securing all necessary regulatory approvals from the U.S. and Canadian authorities, it has successfully closed on its acquisition of 100% of the equity interest in Colt Holding Company LLC (“Colt”), the parent company of the U.S. firearms manufacturer, Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC as well as its Canadian subsidiary, Colt Canada Corporation.

Rostec supplies compact 9mm SR.3M assault rifles to undisclosed foreign customer | 28 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Rosoboronexport company of the Rostec State Corporation will supply modernized compact 9 mm SR.3M assault rifles to a foreign partner. The weapon is developed at the Central Scientific and Research Institute for Precision Machine Engineering (TSNIITOCHMASH). It comes fitted with a removable silencer, an optical sight and is intended for arming special forces.

UK, South Africa collaborating on military asset disposal | 27 May 2021 | Janes

The United Kingdom is collaborating with South African defence procurement agency Armscor to help facilitate the disposal of UK military equipment to potential customers in Africa.

Manifestation devant la Sabca pour dénoncer l’exportation d’armes | 27 May 2021 | BX1

Une vingtaine de militants pacifistes ont mené ce jeudi une action devant le siège de la Sabca à Haren pour dénoncer l’exportation d’armes vers la Turquie et l’Arabie saoudite. Ils ont déployé une banderole et déversé du (faux) sang devant les portes de l’usine.

Revealed: loopholes letting EU firms ‘break’ arms embargoes | 25 May 2021 | EU Observer

The training and maintenance contracts between European companies and foreign armies sustains the conflicts in Yemen and Libya. It is effectively enabled by EU member states because it is hidden from political and judicial oversight.

Serbian Army receives 30 T-72B1MS tanks and 30 BRDM-2MS armored reconnaissance vehicles from Russia | 25 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Dr. Nebojsa Stefanovic and Chief of the General Staff of the Serbian Army General Milan Mojsilovic attended the handover of T-72MS tanks (in fact T-72B1MS White Eagle, according to Army Recognition’s analysis) and BRDM-2MS armored reconnaissance cars from a donation from the Russian Federation to Serbia at the Mija Stanimirovic barracks in Nis, the Serbian Ministry of Defense reports on its website.

Special Report – European Parliament and Council Approve Recast of EU Dual-Use Regulation: A Review of Key Changes | 25 May 2021 | McDermott Will & Emery | JD Supra

Since it first went into force in 2009, the European Union’s regulation on the export control of dual-use items has undergone several updates to account for emerging technological and other challenges, including cybersecurity and human rights issues. Following a November 2020 provisional agreement, a recast of the regulation was adopted by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU on 10 May 2021 and was unanimously approved by EU Member States a week later…

Arms firms selling weapons to Israel received nearly £10m in Scottish Enterprise grants | 23 May 2021 | The Ferret

Arms firms in Scotland who sell weapons to Israel received nearly £10m in grants from Scottish Enterprise, prompting concerns taxpayers’ money may be contributing to human rights abuses and prolonging the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Latvia to purchase another batch of M109A5 155mm self-propelled howitzers from Austria | 21 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information released by a Latvian press agency on May 18, 2021, citing information from the Latvian Ministry of Defense, the country has signed an agreement with Austria to purchase another batch of 18 second-hand M109A5 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzers.

Russian state arms seller signs contracts worth USD 4 Bln in 2021 | 21 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Russia’s Rosoboronexport state arms seller has signed contracts worth $4 billion in 2021, Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev said at the HeliRussia 2021 exhibition: “We have signed contracts worth more than $4 billion this year. Our order portfolio is at $52.1 billion,” the CEO said. Rosoboronexport is a subsidiary of Russia’s Rostec state hi-tech corporation.

Wagner group promotes Russia’s strategic interests in Mideast beyond military influence | 20 May 2021 | The Arab Weekly

The Wagner Group has only emerged in recent years as a mercenary group fighting in the service of the Russia state even if Moscow has denied any connection to the private military outfit.

Voortvluchtige Jürgen Conings kreeg sleutel wapendepots ondanks tuchtsanctie voor extreemrechts gedachtegoed | 20 May 2021 | VRT nws

A ‘Far-Right’ Soldier Stole Weapons and Disappeared into a Forest – Or Did He? | 24 May 2021 | VICE

Ondanks een tuchtsanctie voor extreemrechts gedachtegoed werd Conings, na een vrijwillige overplaatsing vorig jaar, onder meer verantwoordelijk voor het beheer van munitie- en wapendepots in de kazerne van Leopoldsburg. Conings kon dus ongestoord en zonder veel controle aan allerlei zware wapens raken, terwijl hij op dat moment al op de radar stond van de militaire veiligheidsdienst.

Hard power: Europe’s military drift causes alarm | 19 May 2021 | The Guardian

Critics are asking why, if the EU’s mission is to promote peace, it wants to use public money to fund the supply of weapons to foreign armies.

Italy’s port workers refuse to load arms on ship for Israel | 19 May 2021 | Global Village Space

A group of port workers in Italy protested against the supply of weapons and explosives to Israel. The explosives will be used to kill the Palestinian population which is already suffering.

Germany arrests businessman over dual-use exports to Russia | 19 May 2021 | DefenseNews

A businessman suspected of helping Russia purchase sophisticated machinery in breach of arms export rules has been detained in Germany, prosecutors said Tuesday.

Slovenian Army takes delivery of Oshkosh Joint Light Tactical Vehicles | 18 May 2021 | IsraelDefense

Slovenia became the second Balkan state to receive the new Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) manufactured by American company Oshkosh. The Slovenian Defense Ministry announced that 38 of the vehicles arrived at the port of Koper on May 11. The only other Balkan country that has taken delivery of the tactical vehicles is Montenegro, which received its first 4×4 JLTVs in October 2020.

Su-57 = Next-gen Eurofighter | 17 May 2021 | Modern Diplomacy

As I have demonstrated on other occasions, the “best” US combat aircraft for export, the F-35, is basically worthless. The decades old F-16 and F-18 in updated configurations are better. F-22 is truly remarkable but is in limited numbers, will not be built anymore (tools destroyed), and is not for export. The EU Eurofighter is behind in the generation race for modern combat aircraft. The French too. The West is losing out.

A New Era of Export Controls Begins in the EU: The Revised EU Dual-Use Export Controls to Promote Human Rights | 17 May 2021 | Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP | JD Supra

A New Era of Export Controls Begins in the EU: The Revised EU Dual-Use Export Controls to Promote Human Rights | 14 May 2021 | The National Law Review

On May 10, 2021, the EU adopted its new, revised version of Regulation (EC) No 428/2009 (the “Regulation”). It is widely acknowledged to be the first major reform to the structure of the EU’s export control regime since 2009.

Rostec delivers underwater pistols and assault rifles to foreign partner | 17 May 2021 | Army-Technology

Rosoboronexport has completed the delivery of underwater pistols and assault rifles to an undisclosed foreign partner.

Georgia to produce US M4 rifles, drones in 2022 | 16 May 2021 | JAM-News

Georgia has announced its plans to start producing unmanned aerial vehicles and M4 rifles in 2022. The country will also reform the conscription system and reduce the mandatory term of military service.

How the UK military supports Israel’s combat operations against Palestinians | 15 May 2021 | Daily Maverick

As violence escalates in Israel and Palestine, we take readers through the expanding military relationship between the UK and Israel, which has been erased by the British media. The deepening alliance involves UK military training of Israel for combat, joint exercises, arms deals, as well as intelligence cooperation.

First batch of 2S3M2 152mm tracked self-propelled howitzers delivered to Russian army | 13 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The first batch of modernized 2S3M2 Akatsiya 152mm tracked self-propelled howitzers was handed over to the Russian army. The 2S3M2 is an improved version of the Soviet-made 2S3 152mm self-propelled howitzer based on tracked armored chassis.

WZM to modernize BWR-1D and BWR-1S reconnaissance armored vehicles of Polish Army | 12 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Polish company Wojskowe Zakłady Motoryzacyjne (WZM) has won a contract to upgrade and repair 18 tracked armored reconnaissance vehicles BWR-1D et BWR-1S of the Polish army.

FN Herstal launches Evolys: an innovative new LMG | 10 May 2021 | Janes

Belgian firearms manufacturer FN Herstal unveiled its latest weapon, a belt-fed light machine gun (LMG) known as the Evolys, on 6 May.

British Challenger 3 tanks to be fitted with Rheinmetall 120mm smoothbore gun | 10 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Rheinmetall has won a pioneering land forces order of pan-European and NATO-wide significance. The British Ministry of Defence has contracted with the Düsseldorf-based technology group to modernize the British Army’s main battle tank fleet. In all, 148 Challenger 2 main battle tanks will be upgraded with the 120mm smoothbore main armament from Rheinmetall, together with a completely new turret structure, including state-of-the-art digital system architecture.

United Kingdom orders 148 Challenger 3 Main Battle Tanks from Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land | 8 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The British Army will receive a fleet of 148 Challenger 3 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) as part of an £800 million contract with Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL), the British Defence Secretary has announced on May 7, 2021.

Tatra and DAF will work together to produce new CF Military trucks for Belgian army | 8 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The company Tatra Truck from the Czech Republic and DAF will work together for the delivery of CF Military trucks to the Belgian army. DAF has received a large order of 879 all-wheel-drive CF Military trucks from the Belgian Armed Forces. Delivery of the first vehicles is planned for 2022 with the last vehicles to be produced in 2025.

Czech Army to receive 16 Tatra T-815 trucks for 25th Air Defense Missile Regiment | 7 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Lubor Koudelka, Deputy Minister of Defense for the Management of the Armaments and Acquisitions Section, signed two contracts for the acquisition of new equipment: 16 trucks for the 25th Air Defense Missile Regiment, and modern backpacks for the Army of the Czech Republic, czdjournal reports from a Czech army source.

FN Herstal launches its new FN EVOLYS ultralight machine gun 5.56 or 7.62mm caliber | 6 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Video: Launching ceremony FN Herstal EVOLYS ultralight machine gun

Belgium-based designer and manufacturer of small caliber weapons, associated weapon systems and ammunition FN Herstal announces on May 6, 2021, the entry of a brand-new machine gun with unique features, the FN EVOLYS™. With this new addition to FN Herstal’s product portfolio, the Company definitely intends to write a new chapter in the history of machine guns.

John Cockerill Defense and Thales present new system combining cannon and rockets integrated into Cockerill 3030 turret | 6 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

John Cockerill Defense and Thales are combining their skills and product portfolio for the first firing tests of a mixed cannon and 70mm rocket system integrated on a Cockerill 3030 turret.

BAE Systems to deliver additional 127 BvS10 vehicles to Swedish Army | 4 May 2021 | Army-Technology

BAE Systems has secured a $200m contract to deliver an additional 127 BvS10 all-terrain vehicles to the Swedish Army.

Spain has awarded contract to Instalaza for the purchase of C90 rocket-propelled grenade launchers | 2 May 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the InfoDefensa website on April 30, 2021, the Spanish army has awarded a contract of €22.4 million to the company Instalaza for the purchase of C90 shoulder-fired and one-man operated rocket-propelled grenade launcher.

KMW produces IVECO Trakker cabs for Bundeswehr | 30 April 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) has been commissioned by IVECO Defence Vehicles S.p.A. to produce the driver’s cabs of GTF2 protected transport vehicles on the IVECO Trakker basis. In total, the order involves a production volume of 224 protected cabs from KMW with an option for a further 824 truck cabs.