SUB-SAHARA AFRICA AND THE ARMS TRADE, 2021

by Peter Danssaert

Since 2014 the Early Warning Project (1) has produced an annual global assessment of countries at risk of a new outbreak of mass killings. Eighteen African countries are listed in the “Top 30 countries by estimated risk of new mass killing, 2021-2022” – the remainder are located in Asia. Out of the fifteen countries with ongoing (+) mass killings seven are located in Africa. Much greater scrutiny by arms trade authorities needs to be exercised in relation to such countries.

A mass killing, as defined rather schematically by the Early Warning Project, is 1,000 or more civilians deliberately killed by armed forces (whether government or non-state), over a period of a year or less, because of their membership in a particular group. This includes genocide and crimes against humanity, but the definition downgrades risks of such atrocities in some countries where mass killings have been paused. (2) Nevertheless, one cannot underestimate the gravity of the recurring large-scale, systematic violence on civilian populations by government and/or non-state actors.

States should act with caution when transferring arms and ammunition to unreliable Sub-Saharan African states whose security forces commit patterns of violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, according to UN and other reliable reports on human rights. (3)

DR Congo (5) (+)	Somalia (11) (+)	Mozambique (22)
Guinea (6)	Libya (13)	Uganda (23)
Ethiopia (7) (+)	South Sudan (16) (+)	Mali (24)
Nigeria (8) (+)	Republic of the Congo (18)	Tanzania (25)
Sudan (9) (+)	Central African Republic (20) (+)	Angola (28)
Chad (10)	Burundi (21)	Kenya (29)

Table 1: African countries in Top 30 countries by estimated risk of new mass killing, 2021-2022 (The Early Warning Project)

The ongoing threat of jihadi armed groups in the Sahel has led to an increased demand for conventional weapons by the armed forces of several Sahel countries (Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria) and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). Germany, France, EU and the United States amongst others have or are donating military equipment to States contributing police or military forces to MINUSMA. The South African company OTT Technologies, in cooperation with U.S. defence service provider Pacific Architects & Engineers, has delivered an initial batch of M26 mine resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicles to the Burkinabe army. An additional 24 M26 armoured vehicles must be delivered in near future according to the contract. (4) The U.S. Department of State has also awarded a contract to the U.S. company Relyant Global to deliver M36 MRAP vehicles supplied by OTT Technologies to Burkina Faso. (5)

Figure 1: Number of delivered armoured vehicles.

The Mali military was also the recipient of generous acquisitions in the fight against violent extremism. Germany has donated 30 M36 MRAP vehicles from OTT Technologies. France donated 20 MassTech pick-up trucks. Other recent acquisitions of the Mali armed forces include South Korean Kia KM450 military trucks (6), Chinese infantry fighting vehicles, Russian BTR-70 armoured personnel carriers and Chinese light armoured vehicles. In 2019 Mali signed a contract with the U.A.E. based company Streit Group for the delivery of 100 Typhoon MRAPs vehicles. Newspapers reported that an audit by the Office of the Auditor General of Mali (Bureau du Vérificateur général du Mali) alleges there were instances of overcharging and kickbacks having been paid to Malian officials in relation to the Streit contract. Russia delivered 4 Mi-171 transport helicopters thereby fulfilling a 2020 contract. (7)

A first batch of Bastion armoured personnel carriers made by French company Arquus was delivered to Cameroon by the French company SOFEMA to bolster Cameroon’s contribution to the UN peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic – the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). (8) SOFEMA is responsible for supporting and assisting the foreign sales of major French aeronautics and defence industrial groups. Several major French defence companies are its shareholders.

China delivered numerous armoured vehicles to the Nigerian armed forces. The Chinese company Poly Technologies delivered one hundred Dongfeng Mengshi (Warrior) CSK131 4×4 light armoured vehicles, and fifty CS/VP3 Bigfoot MRAPs. Another Chinese company, China North Industries Corporation (Norinco), delivered sixty Type 85 (YW531H) armoured personnel carriers, and sixty VP1 (“Type 89 ZSD”) armoured personnel carriers. (9) The Nigerian government also ordered an unknown number of locally manufacturedProForce Viper MRAPs and 52 Ezugwu MRAPs. The latter Ezugwu mine resistant vehicles were built as a collaboration between two local companies, the Defence Industries Cooperation of Nigeria (DICON) and Command Engineering Depot (CED). In addition, the Nigerian air force acquired 12 Super Tucano light attack aircraft under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, and the Italian defence manufacturer Leonardo was awarded a €1.2bn order for 24 M-346 FA light attack aircraft. (10) The Damen Song Cam Shipyard (Vietnam), part of the Dutch Damen Shipyards Group, delivered two Damen FCS 4008 patrol vessels. According to DefenceWeb, Nigeria will also be acquiring two fast patrol craft from China’s Poly Technologies. The vessels are meant to bolster Nigeria’s anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Guinea.

In January 2021 the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) announced having signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Metallurgical Development Centre (NMDC) in Nigeria to provide the raw materials needed to produce ammunition, aiming to make the country less dependent on foreign products. However, in September the Nigerian newspaper The Nation said that the partnership had stalled due to a lack of funding of the NMDC by the government. In late 2021 the Nigerian government published its 2022 Appropriation Bill which included USD100 million for the procurement of “military equipment, arms and ammunition”, of which USD75 million set aside for the Nigerian Air Force.

Figure 2: Number of delivered aircraft/UAVs & vessels.

Sales of unmanned aerial vehicles (often called military UAVs or drones) to states in Sub-Sahara Africa are increasing. In addition to Ethiopia’s acquisition of drones, Cameroon was supplied with an unknown number of Bramor C4EYE surveillance drones manufactured by Slovenian company C-Astral, and has ordered 14 small UAVs from the Spanish Auditel Segiridad, a subsidiary of Star Defence Logistics & Engineering (SDLE). (11) The Spanish government, via its international cooperation agency FIIAPP, has awarded the Spanish company Asesoramiento y Servicio de drones a contract to deliver observation drones to Mali. (12) Niger has ordered an unknown number of Turkish Bayraktar TB2 UAVs. Nigeria signed a contract with Aerospace Long-March International Trade Co (ALIT), a subsidiary of the state-owned China Aerospace Science & Technology Corp (CASC), to supply six CH-4 armed drones. (13)

In East Africa, Ethiopia is said to have acquired unmanned aerial vehicles from U.A.E (the Chinese-made Wing Loon I), as well as from Iran and Turkey, and according to reports these weapons seem to have enabled the Ethiopian government to launch widespread attacks in its war against Tigray including against civilians. It is also alleged that the U.A.E. has supplied the Ethiopian army with military aid. More than 90 flights, between the U.A.E. and Ethiopia, with IL-76 cargo aircraft were registered between September and October.

Turkey has been increasing its supplies of military equipment to states in Sub-Sahara Africa. Gambia signed a $11m contract with the Turkish company Katmerciler for 20 Hizir armoured personnel carriers and around ten logistic support vehicles. (14) Kenya signed a USD multi-million contract with Katmerciler to supply 118 Hizir mine resistant ambush protected vehicles. (15) Turkey’s Dearsan Shipyards has been tasked to build two offshore patrol vessels for Nigeria. (16) Niger ordered an unknown number of armoured vehicles and twelve Hürkus-C light aircraft from Turkey. (17) The Turkish firm Otokar delivered 40 Cobra II armoured personnel carriers to Ghana. (18) Meanwhile the Turkish government donated 8 BMC Kirpi armoured personnel carriers and 14 BMC Aktan logistics support vehicles to Somalia. (19)

According to the magazine Africa Intelligence, the Ukrainian truck manufacturer AutoKrAZ is in advanced negotiations with the Senegalese, Ghanaian, and Angolan authorities on plans to set up an assembly plant in each country with capacity to produce at least 200 military trucks per year. This follows the 2019, but now postponed, joint venture agreement between AutoKraZ and the Nigerian firm Proforce Ltd to manufacture heavy-duty off road trucks, under the brand KRAZ-PROFORCE, for both the civil and military markets in Nigeria and the rest of Africa. (20) Africa Intelligence also reported that China North Industries Corporation (Norinco) is negotiating with the Angolan state-owned company Simportex to produce 8×8 armoured vehicles under local licence in partnership with Simportex. (21)

In April 2021, Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta opened the new Ruiru Small Arms Factory in Kiambu County. The factory has allegedly the capacity to produce 12,000 weapons per year. “This ground-breaking initiative will allow us to lay the foundation for addressing the high cost of weapons acquisition, free us from the complex foreign export approval processes currently in place, provide Kenya with greater security sector independence and flexibility, and allow Kenya to design and produce high-quality weapons, customized to our unique needs and operating environments,” said President Kenyatta.

The aim of the Kenyan President is to export any weapons manufacturing surplus. “This will not only boost our balance of trade position, it will also create employment for thousands of Kenyans, in addition to creating a skills and technology environment that will drive transformation in civilian industries,” he said. Production at the Riuru Small Arms Factory will reportedly focus on the manufacture of 45 x 5.56mm CMZ-4assault rifles. According to a company spokesperson Ruiru Small Arms Factory hopes to diversify its production the coming years to 9mm pistols, and 7.62mm assault rifles. At a firearms destruction event in June the President called on skilled craft workers who illegally make firearms in small workshops to instead join the workforce at the Ruiru Small Arms Factory.

1. The Early Warning Project (2021). Countries at Risk for Mass Killing 2021–22: Early Warning Project Statistical Risk Assessment Results. Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide / Dartmouth College.

2. For example, the authors exclude mass killings by the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen; and for the entry on Syria the authors exclude mass killings by armed opposition, other than the Islamic State.

3. B. Wood; P. Danssaert (2021). Africa Armed Violence and the Illicit Arms Trade. In: D. Pérez Esparza et als (eds.): Gun Trafficking and Violence : From the Global Network to the Local Security Challenge. Cham: Palgrave: pp. 189-238.

4. “OTT Technologies and PAE to supply new Puma armoured vehicles to Burkino Faso’s army”, Africa Intelligence, 16 March 2021.

5. “Relyant, the rising star of US military aid to Sahel”, Africa Intelligence, 19 October 2021.

6. “Germany gives Malian army new OTT Technologies armoured vehicles”, Africa Intelligence, 10 May 2021.

7. “Mali receives four Mi-171 helicopters”, Janes Defence Weekly, 13 October 2021.

8. “Sofema picks up where Arquus failed on APC delivery to MINUSCA”, Africa Intelligence, 17 June 2021.

9. “Nigerian Army unveils Chinese tracked APCs”, Janes Defence Weekly, 10 November 2021; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=my-GEp69q68.

10. “Leonardo gives Nigerian Air Force a lift with its M- 346 training jets”, Africa Intelligence, 11 March 2021; “Nigerian Air Force to pay more than €1bn for 24 Leonardo fighter aircraft”, Africa Intelligence, 23 March 2021; “Nigeria inducts Super Tucanos”, Janes Defence Weekly, 8 September 2021; “NAF receives last Super Tucanos”, Janes Defence Weekly, 13 October 2021.

11. “Army receives C-Astral Slovenian drones as war escalates in Anglophone regions”, Africa Intelligence, 5 November, 2021; “Cameroon orders mini-UAVs”, Janes Defence Weekly, 17 November 2021.

12. “Madrid continues to equip Malian gendarmes despite tensions over Wagner”, Africa Intelligence, 11 November 2021.

13. “Beijing to supply six additional combat drones to Nigerian Air Force”, Africa Intelligence, 26 February 2021.

14. “Banjul orders Turkish Katmerciler APCs to bolster its peacekeeping contingents in Africa”, Africa Intelligence, 24 August 2021.

15. “Kenya orders 118 Turkish Hizir armoured vehicles”, Janes Defence Weekly, 16 June 2021.

16. “Nigeria orders Turkish OPVs”, Janes Defence Weekly, 17 November 2021.

17. “Turkey announces Nigerien light aircraft, UAV order”, Janes Defence Weekly, 1 December 2021.

18. “Ghana army receives more Otokar Cobra II vehicles”, Janes Defence Weekly, 14 April 2021.

19. “Turkey donates more Kirpi APCs to Somalia”, DefenceWeb, 24 August 2021.

20. “Ukraine’s AutoKrAZ hopes to dominate West African military logistics market”, Africa Intelligence, 5 March 2021.

21. “Norinco wants to make armoured vehicles with state-owned company Simportex”, Africa Intelligence, 6 May 2021.

Source photo: U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Nathan Hammack.

---

IN THE NEWS

GENERAL

The 2021 Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer | 21 December 2021 | Small Arms Survey| ReliefWeb

The 2021 Small Arms Trade Transparency Barometer (the Barometer) identifies the most and least transparent of 50 top and major small arms exporters, based on those states’ reporting of their authorized small arms exports undertaken in 2018. In addition to their national reports, the Barometer takes into consideration data provided by states to multiple international reporting instruments, such as the UN Register of Conventional Arms, the UN Small Arms Programme of Action, the UN Commodity Trade Statistics Database, and the Arms Trade Treaty.

Taking stock of the arms trade treaty: A summary of policy options | 20 December 2021 | SIPRI | ReliefWeb

A stocktaking exercise by SIPRI focused on five main aspects of the treaty: its scope, the application of its prohibitions and the riskassessment criteria, its processes and forums, promotion of its universalization, and support for states’ implementation.

SIPRI: Global arms industry flourishing despite COVID | 5 December 2021 | DW

A $531-billion business: The new SIPRI report shows that the world’s top 100 arms producers have continued to increase sales — even in the pandemic year of 2020 and despite the global economy contracting.

Chinese envoy calls for comprehensive measures to combat trafficking of small arms | 23 November 2021 | China Daily

A Chinese envoy on Monday called for comprehensive measures to combat the trafficking of small arms and light weapons. The control of small arms and light weapons has a bearing on peace and security. Combating their trafficking is of great importance to safeguarding the economic development and social progress of all countries. It is, therefore, a matter of urgency to strengthen conventional arms control within a multilateral framework, said Zhang Jun, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations.

Russia ready to contribute to global fight against trafficking of light weapons — envoy | 23 November 2021 | TASS

According to Vasily Nebenzya, the trafficking of light weapons and small arms is the result of excessively liberal laws and loopholes in export control regulations

Political Will Along with Arms Control Management Critical in Stemming Illicit Trade of Small Arms, Light Weapons, Speakers Tell Security Council | 23 November 2021 | UNSC | ReliefWeb

With illicit trade in small arms and light weapons fuelling conflict, aggravating the humanitarian situation and undermining development, over 50 speakers during today’s open debate in the Security Council emphasized the need for political will and effective arms management to tackle the trafficking and diversion of weapons and ammunition to conflict zones.

At UNSC open debate, India commits to international obligations on illicit arms trade | 23 November 2021 | ANI

India on Monday, during an open debate at UN Security Council (UNSC), committed to implementing its international obligations regarding illicit trade in small arms.

Iran’s UN envoy: Illicit trade in small arms, light weapons fuels crime, terrorism | 22 November 2021 | PressTV

Iran’s permanent ambassador to the United Nations says illicit trade in small arms and light weapons not only exacerbates violence in all its forms, but also fuels crime and terrorism across the world.

Working together to prevent the proliferation of small arms | 22 November 2021 | UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Statement by Ambassador James Roscoe at the Security Council open debate on small arms.

Arms trafficking, a ‘defining factor’ in undermining peace | 22 November 2021 | UN News

Small arms trafficking is a “defining factor in undermining peace and security”, the Director of the UN Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) told the Security Council on Monday during a ministerial debate.

Making Arms Embargoes in Africa More Effective | 22 November 2021 | Africa Center for Strategic Studies

Arms embargoes can be effective but require regional and international buy-in, adequate monitoring, and the imposition of sufficient costs on actors who evade the sanctions.

IHL/IHRL

«Il faut que cesse la complicité de la France dans les crimes internationaux» | 22 December 2021 | Le Monde

En pleine connaissance de graves violations du droit international humanitaire, Paris continue de soutenir par ses ventes d’armes l’Arabie saoudite, les Emirats arabes unis et l’Egypte, dénoncent, dans une tribune au « Monde », le député Sébastien Nadot et le président d’Action sécurité éthique républicaines, Benoît Muracciole.

Incendiary Weapons: Heed Calls to Strengthen Law | 9 December 2021 | HRW

The cruel consequences of incendiary weapons warrant reviewing and strengthening international legal rules governing their use, Human Rights Watch said today. Countries will decide whether to initiate talks on these weapons at a meeting of the Convention on Conventional Weapons (CCW), a major disarmament treaty, which opens at the United Nations in Geneva on December 13, 2021.

Countries Should Bolster Law on Incendiary Weapons | 6 December 2021 | HRW

As a major United Nations disarmament conference is set to be held in Geneva from December 13-17, healthcare professionals and burn survivor organizations from around the world are adding a compelling voice to the diplomatic debate around incendiary weapons.

Questioning the Coherence of an Extraterritorial Legal Obligation to Prevent Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity | 6 December 2021 | Opinio Juris

Extraterritorial obligations for the prevention of genocide and other atrocity crimes have become more firmly established in international law in recent years than is commonly recognized. But such legal developments, while remarkable, are troublingly incoherent.

Convention on certain conventional weapons: Council approves conclusions | 15 November 2021 | Council of the EU

The Council today approved conclusions welcoming the upcoming sixth review conference of the convention on prohibitions or restrictions on the use of certain conventional weapons which may be deemed to be excessively injurious or have indiscriminate effects (CCW). The review conference will take place in Geneva from 13-17 December 2021.

AFRICA

Nigerians live in fear over arms proliferation | 31 December 2021 | Blueprint.ng

Concerns are being expressed in many quarters about the mounting incidents of arms and high-calibre weapons being purloined into the country by unscrupulous Nigerians.

Morocco negotiates acquisition of Israeli Barak 8 air defense missile systems | 30 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “Israel Defense” website on December 28, 2021, Morocco continues the negotiation with IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries) for the acquisition of the Barak 8, a surface-to-air defense missile system.

Police recover 1,889 machine guns, RPG, AK 47, others | 25 December 2021 | The Punch (Nigeria)

Barely one week after the Nigeria Customs Service intercepted a container loaded with firearms and ammunition at the Tin Can port in Lagos, the police have said they recovered no less than 1,889 weapons and 52,577 rounds of live ammunition between January and December, 2021.

Halting the illegal circulation of firearms | 23 December 2021 | The Punch (Nigeria)

Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons, occasioned by illegal and porous national borders and a booming business of gun-running, is the main factor fueling Nigeria’s security challenges and criminal activities across the country.

Fight Against “Organised Crime: West Africa Response to Trafficking (OCWAR-T project) | 21 December 2021 | Business Ghana

As part of the implementation process of the Organised Crime: West Africa Response to Trafficking (OCWAR-T) project, the German International Cooperation (GIZ) as the lead implementing agency, the ECOWAS Commission, The European Union, the German Federal Foreign Office and other implementing partners – namely the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the Mines Advisory Group (MAG), the International Center for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and the Enhancing Africa’s response to transnational organised crime (ENACT) – held the third meeting of the Steering Committee on Tuesday, December 14, 2021.

Morocco takes delivery of Chinese FD-2000B surface-to-air defense missile systems | 21 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Bladi.net website on December 18, 2021, Morocco has taken delivery of the first batteries of Chinese-made FD-2000B surface-to-air defense missile systems at a military base near the city Sidi Yahya El Gharb.

Kenya’s Hizir APC order on track | 20 December 2021 | DefenceWeb

Kenya will start to receive the 118 Hizir armoured personnel carriers (APCs) it ordered from Turkey’s Katmerciler in early 2022.

Merchants Of Death: The Unending Firearms Smuggling In Nigeria | 19 December 2021 | HumAngle

The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted thousands of firearms in the last five years amidst rising insecurity across the country.

Customs intercept container load of weapons at Tin Can | 19 December 2021 | Vanguard (Nigeria)

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS Tin Can Island Command, has intercepted a 1x40ft container with number TRHU8058369, loaded with cartons of guns.

Uganda buys Chinese arms for war on ADF | 19 December 2021 | The Independent (Uganda)

On Nov. 30, the Ugandan army alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Forces (FARDC) launched joint air and artillery strikes against camps of the Congo-based Uganda rebels of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).

Tanzania displays new tank during anniversary parade | 16 December 2021 | DefenceWeb

Tanzania’s military has revealed its acquisition of the Norinco VT2 main battle tank (MBT) from China during a parade marking the 60th anniversary of its independence.

MRAP : les Mbombe, une famille élargie | 13 December 2021 | Areion24

À sa création en 1994 par l’homme d’affaires sud-africain Ivor Ichikowitz, la firme sud-africaine Paramount Group n’est pas destinée à développer et à produire des véhicules de combat terrestres. En effet, elle est plutôt axée sur l’aérospatial, les navires et l’intégration des nouvelles technologies dans des systèmes d’armes.

Morocco Eyeing French H225M Caracal Helicopters | 13 December 2021 | DefenseWorld.net

The Royal Moroccan Air Force is reportedly planning to buy 8 H225M Caracal helicopter from France.

Egypt has developed new armored vehicle based on French Sherpa 4×4 chassis | 9 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

During EDEX 2021, Egypt Defense Exhibition, the Egyptian defense industry has displayed a new 4×4 armored vehicle based on the French ARQUUS chassis of Sherpa Light 4×4 light tactical vehicle. The vehicle is developed in Egypt with the collaboration of the Engineering Industrial complex, part of the Egyptian Vehicles Department as well as Engineering Industrial Complex and Egyptian military factories.

Lom Praha overhauls Ghanaian Mi-171 | 9 December 2021 | DefenceWeb

The Czech Republic’s Lom Praha has completed the overhaul of a Ghana Air Force Mi-171Sh helicopter, which was recently seen undergoing engine runs at the company’s facilities.

Niger receives second ex-US C-130 Hercules | 9 December 2021 | DefenceWeb

Niger’s Air Force has officially taken delivery of the second of three C-130H Hercules transport aircraft from the United States.

Egypt defense industry unveils Temsah-5 4×4 light protected vehicle at EDEX 2021 | 8 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Engineering industrial complex (EIC) has officially unveiled the Temsah-5 during EDEX 2021, Egypt Defense Exhibition. The Temsah-5 is a new member of the Temsah (Crocodile in English) family of wheeled armored vehicles but designed to be used as scout and utility combat vehicles. Engineering industrial complex (EIC) was established in 1978 in Egypt. EIC is one of the unique units that belong to the vehicle department/Egyptian ministry of defense.

Congo Hold-up: les camions russes de Philippe de Moerloose (Paywall) | 8 December 2021 | Le Soir

L’homme d’affaires belge Philippe De Moerloose a utilisé une société-écran pour fournir des véhicules de type militaire au gouvernement congolais. C’était en 2016, une époque troublée en RDC.

Proforce launches new Viper APC | 8 December 2021 | DefenceWeb

Proforce unveils newly designed 9-ton PF Viper MRAP vehicle | 8 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Proforce Defence has unveiled its new Viper armoured personnel carrier (APC), a lighter, faster and more manoeuvrable version of its Ara vehicle.

Malian military receives new vehicles | 7 December 2021 | Janes

The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) received several dozen new armoured and unprotected vehicles in a ceremony held at the Kati military camp on 3 December.

Ethiopia’s TPLF accuses UAE, Iran, Turkey of supporting Abiy’s war plans | 6 December 2021 | The Nation (Nigeria)

The desire by the Ethiopian government to seal off external access routes for the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has attracted Middle East rivals to the Tigray war, adding outside influence to the year-long conflict.

Egyptian Ministry of Defense unveils Temsah 4 armored vehicle | 30 November 2021 || ArmyRecognition

KADER factory for developed industries, a member of the Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI), unveils Temsah 4 4×4 armored vehicle during EDEX 2021, the Egypt defense exhibition that was held in Cairo from 29 November to 2 December 2021.

Egypt negotiating for K9 Thunder howitzers | 30 November 2021 | Janes

The Egyptian military is considering acquiring 155 mm K9 Thunder tracked self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) and support vehicles, South Korea’s Hanwha Defense announced during the EDEX show held in Cairo on 30 November.

Following KA-52 Success, Russia Pitches More Helicopter Models to Egypt | 28 November 2021 | DefenseWorld.net

Russian Helicopters Holding, subsidiary of Rostec, is pitching a range of civil and military helicopters to international customers at the International Defense Industry Exhibition EDEX 2021 (Nov. 29- Dec. 2) in Cairo.

Understanding Egypt’s 54 Rafale and 24 Su-35 Jets Procurement | 27 November 2021 | DefenseWorld.net

Egypt increased its 24 Rafale aircraft order with Dassault Aviation to 54 by signing up to buy 30 more jets in May 2021; In addition, it is in the middle of procuring 24 Su-35 jets from Russia.

«Egypt papers» : le parlement français doit enquêter sur un probable scandale d’etat | 25 November 2021 | Amnesty International France

Partenariat stratégique franco-égyptien : vers un scandale d’état | 26 November 2021 | Amnesty International France

Depuis dimanche soir, les révélations successives issues des enquêtes du média Disclose semblent dessiner les contours d’un scandale d’État. Si elles étaient confirmées, les informations parues ces derniers jours concernant la vente d’armes et de technologies de surveillance à l’Égypte viendraient confirmer les dérives du « partenariat stratégique » franco-égyptien mis en place en 2015. Dérives qu’Amnesty International n’a cessé de dénoncer.

Le Maroc protège son espace aérien en se dotant de systèmes de défense anti-drone israéliens | 22 November 2021 | Hespress

Dans une démarche visant à protéger l’espace aérien marocain, le Royaume a récemment acquis le système anti-drone « SKYLOCK », qui est fabriqué par « Skylock Systems ». Une entreprise appartenant au groupe israélien « Avnon ».

Les mémos de la terreur | 21 November 2021 | Disclose

Egypt used French military support to ‘kill civilians’ | 22 November 2021 | al-Jazeera

Disclose a obtenu plusieurs centaines de documents secrets qui révèlent la responsabilité de la France dans les crimes de la dictature d’Abdel Fattah Al-Sissi, en Egypte. « Les mémos de la terreur », une enquête en cinq épisodes publiés entre le dimanche 21 et le vendredi 26 novembre.

Le Niger va acheter du matériel militaire à la Turquie, notamment des drones | 21 November 2021 | RFI

L’information a été confirmée par les deux présidences à l’issue d’un entretien téléphonique, cette semaine, entre Recep Tayyip Erdogan et son homologue nigérien Mohammed Bazoum. Avec cette annonce, la Turquie confirme sa position d’acteur majeur sur le marché international des drones.

Le RASALAO fait un plaidoyer pour une mise en œuvre universelle et effective du TCA dans le pays | 17 November 2021 | AIP

Le Réseau d’action sur les armes légères en Afrique de l’Ouest, section Côte d’Ivoire (RASALAO-CI) avec l’appui de Control Arms, a initié une série d’activités en vue de mener dans l’ensemble, un plaidoyer pour une mise en œuvre universelle et effective du Traité sur le commerce des armes (TCA) dans le pays.

Turkey Donates Military Vehicles to Somalia | 17 November 2021 | DefenseWorld

The Somali National Army (SNA) received a donation of military vehicles including trucks and ambulances from Turkey on Tuesday.

Le contrat portant sur la livraison de 30 Rafale à l’Égypte est entré en vigueur | 16 November 2021 | Zone militaire

L’achat d’équipements militaires – comme pour d’autres biens – passe par plusieurs étapes. Le processus commence généralement par la signature d’une lettre d’intention par le pays client, ce qui donne ensuite lieu à des négociations qui, si elles se déroulent bien, aboutissent à un contrat.

Russian T-90SA main battle tanks are the backbone of Algerian army | 14 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The T-90SA main battle tank is now the backbone of the Algerian armed forces with a total of 572 tanks in service. Algeria is currently the only operator of the T-90 in Africa. The armed forces are among the most capable and best equipped in North Africa.

NCCSALW partners Army to destroy surrendered, seized weapons | 12 November 2021 | The Sun (Nigeria)

The National Centre for Control of Small Arms and Illicit Weapons (NCCSALW), has called for partnership with the Nigerian Army to take control of surrendered weapons from repentant insurgents and those captured from bandits and other criminal elements to reduce its work load.

Des armes iraniennes retrouvées en Somalie | 12 November 2021 | RFI

An Iranian Fingerprint? Tracing Type 56-1 assault rifles in Somalia | 10 November 2021 | Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime

Dans un rapport, le think tank suisse Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC) confirme la présence d’armes iraniennes sur le sol somalien. Un armement initialement destiné aux rebelles yéménites houthis.

Nigerian Navy to Train Personnel of the Chadian Navy | 12 November 2021 | PRNigeria

The Nigerian Navy has reiterated its willingness to train the personnel of the newly formed Chadian Navy. The Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo stated this during the visit of the Chadian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Abakar Chahaimi to the Naval Headquarters, Abuja on Thursday 11 November 2021. The CNS also implored the Ambassador to use his rich diplomatic experience to foster peace, security and prosperity between Nigeria and Chad Republic.

Contrôle des armes illicites au Niger : Des participants au lancement du projet ‘’faire taire les armes d’ici 2030’’ reçus par le président de l’Assemblée Nationale | 11 November 2021 | ANP

Le président de l’Assemblée Nationale du Niger, M. Seyni Oumarou s’est entretenu avec une délégation des participants à la rencontre du lancement du projet ‘’septembre mois de l’amnistie en Afrique’’ avec pour thème « faire taire les armes d’ici 2030 ».

Military payments linked to Dubai | 10 November 2021 | The Namibian

An investigation into alleged corruption at the military company August 26 Textile and Garment Factory found that around N$40 million has been transferred to Dubai, the United States, Malaysia and Brazil to allegedly buy pillows, uniforms and other goods for soldiers.

Nigerian army gets Dongfeng Mengshi CSK131 4×4 armored vehicles | 10 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to Military Africa, Nigeria has taken delivery of the first batch of Chinese Dongfeng Mengshi (Warrior) CSK131 4×4 armored vehicles. They arrived in Nigeria on Sunday, November 7. Photographs showing at least 30 vehicles painted in factory green in Nigeria’s seaport surfaced on social media.

Nigeria orders Turkish OPVs | 8 November 2021 | Janes

The Nigerian Navy signed a contract with the Turkish shipyard Dearsan covering the delivery of two new 76 m offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) on 3 November.

How African 8×8 warriors conquers harshest conditions of Central Asia | 7 November 2021 | Vanguard

A South Africa-based global aerospace and technology business, Paramount Group has announced that the Kazakhstan locally-produced variant of the company’s next generation Mbombe 8×8 Infantry Combat Vehicle (aptly named after a legendary West African warrior), has successfully completed a four-year series of extensive trials.

Norinco, plus gros fabricant chinois d’armes, s’installe au Maroc | 6 November 2021 | Barlamane

Le géant chinois Norinco (China North Industries Corporation) vient de s’installe au Maroc. Norinco, qui vend des chars, des blindés, de l’artillerie, des armements et du matériel de maintien de l’ordre notamment, est attirée par le continent africain.

Local manufacture of SA Army’s new uniforms will create jobs | 5 November 2021 | DefenceWeb

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is to get new uniforms, which will be 100% manufactured in South Africa, the SANDF says.

Tchad : un millier d’armes saisies en deux mois par la commission de désarmement | 4 November 2021 | AlwihdaInfo

​Le président de la commission mixte de désarmement, le général Taher Youssouf Boy, a présenté ce 4 novembre, des armes saisies en deux mois d’opérations, du 31 août au 4 novembre 2021.

Egypt negotiates with Ukraine the acquisition of Vilkha-M 300mm rocket launchers | 3 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “Tactical Report” website on November 2, 2021, Egypt negotiates with Ukraine for the acquisition of Vilkha-M 300mm Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), a modernized version of the Soviet-made BM-30 Smerch.

Kenya’s bullet factory misses financial target | 1 November 2021 | Business Daily Africa

Kenya’s bullet factory failed to meet demand in the domestic market due to a wider financial loss of Sh694.3 million for the year ended June 2019, an audit report shows.

Army of Nigeria takes delivery of 60 Type 85 tracked APC Armored Personnel Carrier from China | 31 October 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the NNN website on October 28, 2021, the Nigerian army has taken delivery of 60 Type 85 also named YW531H, a tracked APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) produced by the Chinese company NORINCO.

AMERICAS

A rising tide of stolen guns helps fuel Philadelphia’s gun violence epidemic | 30 December 2021 | Bakersfield.com

When Maurice Quinn went into a corner store in Germantown to use the ATM machine, he got into an argument with an employee and spotted a gun behind the counter. He tried to grab it but failed, according to police and court accounts of the 2019 crime.

Silver & Lead. Inside Mexico’s Historic Lawsuit Targeting U.S. Gun Companies | 27 December 2021 | The Intercept

Lejandro Celorio Alcantara was not surprised when the responses finally came in. As a top legal adviser in Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Celorio led a team of lawyers in filing a historic lawsuit in August, accusing some of the United States’ most well-known gun companies of lethal negligence on a mass scale. Seeking $10 billion in damages from a decade and a half of shoot outs and killings, the unprecedented litigation aimed to succeed where gun violence victims north of the border are all but guaranteed to fail, asking a Massachusetts federal court to hold 10 U.S.-based companies accountable for their products’ impact abroad.

BAE Systems to produce 33 additional ACV Amphibious Combat Vehicles for US Marine Corps | 24 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a contract published by the United States Department of Defense on December 23, 2021, BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P., Sterling Heights, Michigan, is awarded a $169,334,012 modification contract to produce more Amphibious Combat Vehicles (ACV) for U.S. Marine Corps.

Nammo to start full-rate production of M72 Light Assault Weapon variants for US Army | 23 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) on December 20, 2021, Nammo Defense Systems Inc., Mesa, Arizona, was awarded a $498,092,926 firm-fixed-price contract for the full-rate production of M72 Light Assault Weapon variants and components for shoulder-launched munitions training systems.

US approves $125m sale of Javelin missiles to Lithuania | 22 December 2021 | Army-Technology

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential foreign military sale (FMS) of Javelin FGM-148F missiles to Lithuania.

New reforms target US military’s missing weapons problem | 21 December 2021 | ABC News

AWOL Weapons | December 2021 | The Associated Press

The Department of Defense is overhauling how it keeps track of its millions of guns and mountains of explosives, and Congress is requiring more accountability from the Pentagon.

How two US veterans launched an audacious plot to steal weapons from under Army chiefs’ noses | 19 December 2021 | ABC News

Packed with rifles and explosives, the SUV hurtled down a Florida interstate beneath bright blue autumn skies.

The State Department and BIS target Cambodia with more restrictive export controls | 13 December 2021 | Hogan Lovells | JD Supra

On December 9, 2021, the State Department and the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) published corresponding Final Rules that add Cambodia to the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR) § 126.1 country list, and apply more restrictive treatment to exports, reexports, and transfers to Cambodia under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), respectively. These rules do not impose new sanctions on Cambodia. Both Final Rules are effective as of December 9, 2021.

General Dynamics receives new contract to produce more M1A2 Abrams tanks | 12 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a contract published by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) on December 10, 2021, General Dynamics Land Systems Inc., Sterling Heights, Michigan, was awarded a $93,519,000 fixed-price-incentive contract for M1A2 Abrams engineering, manufacturing, design, and production.

Brazil orders Rafael Spike LR anti-guided missiles from Israel | 9 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the website InfoDefensa.com, under a $19 million contract, the Brazilian army has selected the Israeli company Rafael to deliver 100 units of its Spike-LR anti-tank guided missile system. The contract also includes launcher units, simulators, training, and logistic support.

Colombian Army receives first batch of surplus M1117 ASVs | 8 December 2021 | Janes

The Colombian Army officially received its first 20 Textron M1117 Guardian Armored Security Vehicles (ASVs) on 2 December.

Brazilian army receives new batch of M109A5 155mm self-propelled howitzers | 5 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “Defesa Aéra & Naval” website on December 2, 2021, the 29th Self-Propelled Field Artillery Group of the Brazilian army has received a new batch of M109A5 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer.

Colombia receives a new new batch of 20 US M1117 ASV Armored Security Vehicles | 4 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a Tweet published by the Colombian Ministry of Defense on December 3, 2021, the Colombian army has received 20 M1117 Guardian from the United States. This is the first batch of the 145 vehicles that will be delivered in the first part of the year 2022.

Plasan from Israel offers latest generation of 4×4 light protected vehicles for Latin-American market | 1 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Israeli Company Plasan proposes its new range of light tactical and armored vehicles for Latin-America military and security markets at ExpoDefensa 2021, International Defense and Security Exhibition in Bogota, Colombia.

Iveco Defence Vehicles delivers 500th Guarani and IMV-BR batch to Brazilian Army | 1 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

In 2006, the Brazilian Army started the acquisition process of new units of wheeled armored vehicles for the transport of personnel and Iveco Defence Vehicles succeeded in winning the tender with its Guarani VBTP-MR 6×6.

Blindex from Colombia has delivered four Titan armored trucks to Colombian army | 30 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The Colombian company Blindex, a producer of armor for civilian and military vehicles has delivered four Titan 4×4 armored trucks to the Colombian armed forces that are used to protect convoys of oiler companies.

Oshkosh Defense receives $591.6 million JLTV order to continue filling capability gaps for US military and international allies | 30 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

The U.S. Army Contracting Command – Detroit Arsenal (ACC-DTA) announced that it has awarded Oshkosh Defense, a wholly owned subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation, a $591.6 Million order for 1,669 Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTV), 868 companion trailers, and associated packaged and installed kits.

US blacklists Chinese firms as ‘military end-users’ | 29 November 2021 | DevDiscourse

The US government has put several Chinese, Russian and Pakistani companies on a trade blacklist and included them in the “military end-user” (MEU) entity list.

Biden’s Conventional Arms Transfer Policy Review Could Be A Turning Point | 29 November 2021 | War on the Rocks

Under former President Donald Trump, Congress tried and failed five separate times to block weapons sales to Saudi Arabia. In 2016 and 2017, these attempts were blocked from within Congress itself. During 2019, these attempts were vetoed by Trump. During his four years in office, the United States notified Congress of weapon sales worth over $26 billion to Saudi Arabia.

Industria Militar de Fuerzas Armadas Dominicanas (FF.AA). Fabricará indumentarias para miembros COMIPOL | 28 November 2021 | El sol de la Florida

Los Ministerios de Defensa Dominicano (MIDE) y de Obras Públicas y Comunicaciones (MOPC) firmaron un acuerdo de colaboración inter-institucional para que la Dirección General de la Industria Militar de las Fuerzas Armadas asuma la confección de la indumentaria a utilizar por el personal de la Comisión Policial y Militar (COMIPOL), la cual ofrece servicios en las operaciones de vigilancia, protección y seguridad vial en las principales carreteras del país.

U.S. gun makers say Mexico’s lawsuit represents ‘clash of national values’ | 23 November 2021 | Reuters

Industria armamentista en EU intentará detener litigio de México, prevé la SRE | 22 November 2021 | La Jornada

México inicia una ofensiva diplomática para frenar el tráfico de armas desde EE UU | 22 November 2021 | El Pais

Gun makers including Smith & Wesson and Sturm, Ruger & Co on Monday asked a U.S. judge to dismiss a lawsuit by the Mexican government accusing them of facilitating the trafficking of weapons to drug cartels, leading to thousands of deaths.

Congress Seeks to Halt US Weapons in Yemen | 19 November 2021 | Cato Institute

U.S. senators move to block $650 mln arms sale to Saudi Arabia | 19 November 2021 | Reuters

On June 2, 2015, Saudi fighter jets dropped six bombs in Yemen – four on Uqba bin Nafie School and two on Al‐​Masnah Health Clinic. The led to the destruction of the school and health clinic and a civilian casualty. While a minimal amount of opposition fighters in the school died, there is no record of these fighters entering the health clinic. The tools used to commit these attacks were US‐​made, laser‐​guided Mk‐​82 warheads. These same bombs were used in an August 2018 airstrike on a school bus in Yemen that killed dozens of children. Moreover, ReliefWeb, documented 27 unlawful airstrikes, 37% of which involved these bombs.

U.S. military training in Mexico increased as human rights waned, new database reveals | 17 November 2021 | The Intercept

In the years after the U.S. pledged to invest in human rights and rule of law, the Pentagon spent millions training elite Mexican units how to fight.

Chilean Police (PDI) awards DiveSpec contract for 5 Centigon Fox APC 4×4 armored vehicles | 9 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to Infodefensa, the PDI requested c-vehicles based on a Ford model 550 chassis designed for complex police procedures and with features to be used both in urban and rural places. The vehicle had to accommodate 10 police officers and be protected by an armor supporting ballistic impacts from different calibers on its whole body, including the windows.

Oklahoma Man Pleads Guilty To Trafficking Firearms Parts Through Arkansas to Mexico | 9 November 2021 | U.S. Department of State

An Oklahoma man has pleaded guilty to his role in a conspiracy that resulted in the trafficking of firearms to Mexican cartels as part of “Operation Thor’s Hammer,” an effort to disrupt cartels’ access to firearms. Andrew Scott Pierson, 47, of Jay, Oklahoma, entered his guilty plea today before United States District Judge Brian S. Miller, who will sentence Pierson at a later date.

Congress Should Cut Off U.S. Military Support for Saudi Arabia | 8 November 2021 | Forbes

Last week’s offer of $650 million in air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia is the latest example of the Biden Administration’s failure to fulfill its promises to change U.S. policy towards that nation. Early on, it appeared that President Biden would depart from the Trump administration’s record of uncritical support for the government of Saudi Arabia, which persisted despite that regime’s killing of civilians in Yemen and its murder of U.S.-resident Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

State Dept. approves first major Saudi arms deal under Biden | 4 November 2021 | The Hill

The State Department has approved the first major arms deal it has made with Saudi Arabia under President Biden. “The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of AIM-120C Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $650 million,” the State Department said in a statement Thursday.

Curbing illicit firearms trade crucial to success of US-Mexico security deal | 1 November 2021 | CourthouseNews

This is the second in a three-part series looking into the proposed “U.S.-Mexico Bicentennial Framework for Security, Public Health, and Safe Communities,” which, like the Mérida Initiative before it, approaches the problems of drug trafficking, violence, and abuse on the basis of the two countries’ “shared responsibility” for the problems.

The Biden Administration’s Conventional Arms Transfer Policy Should Not Be Handcuffed by the Arms Trade Treaty | 1 November 2021 | The Heritage Foundation

The Biden Administration is reviewing its Conventional Arms Transfer Policy (CATP), which governs conventional weapons export. A State Department official has indicated this review would determine “the proper relationship of the United States to the Arms Trade Treaty.” Incorporating the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) in a revised CATP would be a grave error. The ATT would raise serious barriers to the conduct of U.S. foreign policy—and transform difficult questions of arms export policy into matters of law. The ATT is used solely to constrain the U.S.’s democratic allies: Most of its members do not take it seriously. The U.S. should continue to have a CATP that allows policymakers to weigh all relevant factors—not be handcuffed by the ATT.

Russian weapons maker Kalashnikov negotiates joint production in South America | 31 October 2021 | TASS

The Kalashnikov Group of Companies is negotiating joint production of small arms with a number of South American companies, TASS learned during the SITDEF 2021 international arms exhibition in Peru.

ASIA

Israel delivers first batch of ATMOS 2000 6×6 155mm self-propelled howitzers to Philippines | 31 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to pictures released on the Internet on December 31, 2021, the Philippines has received the first ATMOS 2000 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers from the Israeli company Elbit Systems.

Russia offers to India to develop a new main battle tank based on T-14 Armata platform | 29 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Russian press agency “Sputnik” on December 29, 2021, Russia and India could jointly develop a new main battle tank based on the T-14 Armata platform.

China’s Export Controls | 29 December 2021 | China.org.cn

The State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China published a white paper titled “China’s Export Controls” on Wednesday. Following is the full text of the white paper.

The Uganda Files: How Israel Arms Brutal Dictators Who Recruit Child Soldiers | 24 December 2021 |

Newly declassified Israeli Foreign Ministry documents show that Jerusalem has aided and abetted brutal leaders and military forces in Uganda for years.

Iran deploys its new home-made Karrar Main Battle Tank during military exercises | 23 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Iranian press agency FARS on December 22, 2021, the Iranian army has officially used its new Karrar home-made Main Battle Tank during military exercises in the Southern parts of Iran.

U.S. Navy Seizes 1,400 AK-47 Rifles from Suspected Yemen-Bound ‘Stateless’ Vessel | 23 December 2021 | DefenseWorld.net

U.S. 5th Fleet ships seized approximately 1,400 AK-47 assault rifles and 226,600 rounds of ammunition from a stateless fishing vessel whose destination is likely Yemen.

Philippines to receive this month 20 Sabrah light tanks from Israel | 22 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the INQUIRER.NET website on December 20, 2021, the Philippine armed forces will receive this month 20 Sabrah light tanks produced by the Israeli company Elbit Systems.

Nir-Or from Israel to supply advanced video system for Namer APC of Israeli army | 21 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information released on December 21, 2021, Nir-Or, a subsidiary of IMCO Industries Ltd. announces that it has completed the first models’ supply of its advanced video system for the IDF’s (Israel Defence Force) Namer tracked Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) vehicle.

China’s Growing Access to Global Shipping Data Worries U.S. | 20 December 2021 | The Wall Street Journal

China’s expanding grip on data about the world’s cargo flows is sparking concern in Washington and among industry officials that Beijing could exploit its logistics information for commercial or strategic advantage.

Azerbaijan to produce new weapons and military equipment in 2022 | 20 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to Vugar Khalilov in AzerNews, Azeri Defence Industry Deputy Minister Mehman Bakhishov said that Azerbaijan will produce 66 types of new weapons and military equipment in 2022, Trend reported on December 17: “I hope that this armament will be launched in production in the second half of 2022”.

South Korea ranks 9th in world arms exports: report | 20 December 2021 | The Korea Herald

South Korea was the world’s 9th-largest arms exporter in the 2016-2020 period, accounting for 2.7 percent of the world’s total defense exports, an annual government report showed Monday.

10 Israelis set to be indicted for illegally exporting missiles to China | 20 December 2021 | Times of Israel

Drone entrepreneur Ephraim Menashe and 9 others to be charged for a range of crimes, including carrying out missile tests near residential neighborhoods

La Turquie parie sur ses drones de combat pour renforcer ses liens avec l’Afrique | 17 December 2021 | France24

Le président Recep Tayyip Erdogan accueille les 17 et 18 décembre à Istanbul une quarantaine de hauts responsables africains lors d’un sommet turco-africain. L’occasion pour Ankara de renforcer ses liens avec le continent en vendant des drones de combat, entre autres armes.

From Ankara with implications: Turkish drones and alliance entrapment | 15 December 2021 | War on the Rocks

Earlier this month, the Ukrainian ambassador to Turkey tweeted a picture showing a model of Ankara’s newest drone with Ukrainian insignia on the tail and a long-range precision-guided missile hanging off the fuselage. Turkey is already co-producing drones with Ukraine. The picture raises the question of whether Ankara is also prepared to sell its 250 kilometer-range standoff missiles to Kyiv as well.

UAE Freezes F-35 Purchase Talks, Washington Says End-user Requirements Nonnegotiable | 14 December 2021 | DefenseWorld.net

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has frozen talks with the U.S. over its $23bn deal to buy 50 F-35 fighter jets besides General Atomics drones over American conditions that forced Abu Dhabi to ‘re-assess’ the planned acquisition.

Hanwha from South Korea to supply AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzers to Australian Army | 13 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Hanwha Defense Australia has signed a contract with the Commonwealth of Australia for the supply of its Huntsman AS9 self-propelled artillery system to Australia, a South Korean K9 Thunder 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer tailored for the Australian army. The contract signature was announced on December 13 by the Prime Minister of Australia Scott Morrison and the President of the Republic of Korea, Moon Jae-in at a ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra. This is the first major defence acquisition by Australia from an Asian defence prime contractor.

Cambodian army gets rid of US-made weapons in favor of Chinese ones | 13 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to The New Straits Times, Cambodia is reviewing whether its military has any US-made weapons or equipment and will either store or destroy them. The move follows the U.S. decision to impose an arms embargo on the country on December 9, citing “deepening Chinese military influence in Cambodia [that] undermines and threatens regional security” as well as alleged “corruption and human rights abuses”.

Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles delivers HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicles to New Zealand Defence Force | 8 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Rheinmetall announced on December 8 the official handover of three HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicles to the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) at an official ceremony held on November 25th 2021 at the Trentham Military Camp in Wellington, New Zealand.

Russia to deliver 600,000 AK-203 assault rifles to India | 7 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Rosoboronexport Details AK-203 Rifle Deal, More Projects with India | 7 December 2021 | DefenseWorld.net

According to information published by the Russian press agency on December 7, 2021, Russia and India have signed a contract on the delivery of over 600,000 7.62mm AK-203 assault rifles that will be produced in India for the National Defense Ministry, the Kalashnikov firearms manufacturer.

Israel Exports Arms Endangering Human Rights Because It Serves Our Interests, Top Defense Official Admits (Paywall) | 7 December 2021 | Haaretz

A closed conference offered a rare insight into the relations between the state and the defense export industry. Top defense official at the event: ‘We should have defended NSO rather than caving to the Americans’.

Saudi warplanes carpet-bomb Yemen with US help. This must end | 3 December 2021 | Bernie Sanders & Ro Khanna | The Guardian

The recent breaching of the United States’ embassy in Yemen’s capital city of Sanaa by rebel forces, and the detaining of Yemeni employees of the embassy, is the latest escalation in a war that has gone on for far too long. It is a war that the United States has supported and remains deeply involved in. It’s time for that complicity to end.

U.A.E. Signs Contract to Buy 80 Rafale F4 Jets, 12 H225M Helicopters | 3 December 2021 | DefenseWorld.net

The United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) has entered into a contract with Dassault Aviation for the acquisition of 80 Rafale F4 fighters on Friday.

Vietnam, Russia sign military-technical deal | 2 December 2021 | Janes

Vietnam and Russia have signed an agreement to expand co-operation on military trade and technologies, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in Moscow has announced.

Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering’s (KPE) Barys 6X6 Infantry Combat Vehicle in Production for Kazakhstan Armed Forces | 1 December 2021 | Paramount Group

Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering (KPE), the joint venture between the global aerospace and technology business, Paramount Group and one of Kazakhstan’s leading defence and engineering companies, Kazpetromash, has announced that the company has commenced production of the advanced Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), the Barys 6×6, with first deliveries expected by the end of the year to the Armed Forces Special Units of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

India’s 41 ordnance factories now history; merge into 7 DPSUs | 1 December 2021 | Fortune India

India’s ordnance factories, manufacturing ammunition and explosives for the country’s defence forces — since the start of a gunpowder factory in Ichhapur by the Dutch Ostend Company in 1772 — has become history. The 41 production units of Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) have been converted into seven Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), with effect from October 1, 2021, Union Minister of State for Defence and Tourism Ajay Bhatt informed the Rajya Sabha in a written reply on Monday.

Taiwan receives first-production T-5 advanced trainer | 30 November 2021 | Janes

On 28 November the Republic of China Air Force (RoCAF) received the first mass-produced Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation’s (AIDC’s) T-5 Yung Yin (‘Brave Eagle’) advanced jet trainer (AJT)/light fighter aircraft.

India agrees AK-203 production with Russia | 29 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

India has agreed with Russia the details of licensed production of AK-203 rifles in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the Economic Times newspaper reported quoting sources.

FoI reveals over $155m of Future Fund investments linked to Myanmar military | 29 November 2021 | Investor Daily

The sovereign wealth fund has equity holdings valued at $157.9 million across several companies with alleged business links to the Myanmar military.

Russia to supply Pantsir-S1 mobile air defense systems to Myanmar | 28 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the website Urdupoint, Russia has confirmed the supply of Pantsir-S1 air defense cannon/missile systems to Myanmar. Army Recognition already reported in August 2021, that Russian had planned to deliver Pantsir-S1 systems to Myanmar despite February’s military coup in this Southeast Asian country.

China to deliver first batch of VT5 light tanks to Bangladesh | 25 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a picture published on Twitter by Hao Gao, November 24, 2021, China is ready to deliver the first batch of VT5 light tanks to the Bangladesh army.

Are Ukrainian Weapons Fueling State Repression in Myanmar? | 23 November 2021 | The Defense Post

After Myanmar’s armed forces seized control of the country in February, the Southeast Asian nation was thrown into chaos. At least 1,000 civilians were killed in demonstrations, and thousands of others fled to neighboring India and Thailand.

Russian Helicopters Delivers Two Mi-171 Rotorcraft to China | 23 November 2021 | DefenseWorld.net

Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant, a subsidiary of Russian Helicopters, has delivered the first batch of two Mi-171 helicopters equipped with altitude engines VK-2500-03 to China under the contract with QINGDAO civil airline.

Israel alleges Hezbollah is smuggling arms to Palestinians for ‘future conflict’ | 23 November 2021 | The New Arab

Israeli police on Monday claimed that Hezbollah was trying to “flood Israel with weapons” in preparation for a “future conflict” with Palestinian citizens.

Two more military officers involved with weapons trafficking arrested | 22 November 2021 | Khmer Times

Major cache of automatic weapons found in Battambang | 12 November 2021 | Khmer Times

Military officers suspected of being involved with the weapons trafficking case in Battambang have been arrested.

BAE Systems Australia has delivered 20 autonomous M113AS4 APCs to Australian army | 22 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a Tweet published by BAE Systems Australia on November 22, 2021, the company has delivered 20 M113A4 Optionally Crewed Combat Vehicles to the Australian Army.

Indonesia orders two Airbus A400M military airlifters | 18 November 2021 | Defence-blog

The European plane-maker Airbus announced that the Indonesia Ministry of Defense has placed an order for two Airbus A400M aircraft in multirole tanker and transport configuration.

UAE’s Indigenous Weapon Developments Accelerate | 18 November 2021 | Aviation Week & Space Technology

With their wealth gained from being the energy supplier to the world, Middle East nations can usually comfortably afford to buy the latest missile technology.

John Cockerill Defense to supply AGUERIS tank simulators to Indonesia | 18 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

John Cockerill Defense has recently signed a contract with PT Pindad Enjiniring Indonesia (a subsidiary of PT PINDAD) to supply training simulators for the Indonesian Army. AGUERIS, a subsidiary of John Cockerill Defense France, will develop and manufacture cabin simulators for the training of armored vehicle crews. These are “Harimau” medium-type tank vehicles equipped with the C3105 turret (105mm) from John Cockerill Defense.

UAE Seeks to Bolster Arms Industry to Reduce Imports | 17 November 2021 | The Defense Post

Drones, guided missiles, simulators: the United Arab Emirates is on the offensive to develop its defense industry in a bid to wean itself off dependence on imports. Khalid Al-Breiki heads one of five clusters of the Emirati defense consortium EDGE, formed two years ago and bringing together 25 Emirati arms firms in a bid to develop “national capacities.”

IWI to supply counter-terrorism unit with Arad assault rifles | 17 November 2021 | IsraelDefense

IsraelDefense has learned that IWI (Israel Weapon Industries) has won a tender from the Israeli police for the supply of “Arad” assault rifles to the police’s counter terrorism unit (YAMAM). An official order for this supply is expected in the coming days and in the first batch is for only dozens of rifles.

India poised to sign AK-203 deal with Russia | 16 November 2021 | Janes

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) in New Delhi is set to finalise an agreement with Russia to locally produce 700,000 Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifles for the Indian armed forces. The deal is expected to be completed during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India in early December.

Israeli firm Elbit Systems launches subsidiary in UAE | 15 November 2021 | Army-Technology

Israel-based defence electronics firm Elbit Systems has launched a new subsidiary in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Named Elbit Systems Emirates (ESE), the new establishment is expected to play a role in strengthening the Israeli company’s cooperation with the UAE Armed Forces in the long term.

Elbit Systems awarded USD106 Million contract to supply Sigma Self-Propelled Howitzers to a Country in Asia-Pacific | 15 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Elbit Systems announced on November 15 that it was awarded a contract valued at approximately $106 million to supply Sigma fully automatic self-propelled howitzers to a country in Asia-Pacific. The contract will be fulfilled over a five-year period.

Une opération de contrebande d’armes en provenance de Jordanie déjouée | 11 November 2021 | Times of Israel

Les forces de sécurité israéliennes ont déjoué une tentative de trafic d’armes le long de la frontière israélo-jordanienne, saisissant une quinzaine d’armes et procédant à une arrestation dans le cadre de cette opération, a indiqué l’armée.

MOFCOM Issues New Encryption Import Control Effective Immediately | 11 November 2021 | Baker McKenzie | Lexology

On November 2, 2021, Ministry of Commerce of China (“MOFCOM”) officially released the revised Catalogue of Technologies Subject to Import Prohibition and Restriction (“Technology Catalogue”), effective immediately, which identifies, among others, foreign “data encryption technology employing a key length greater than 256 bits” as a technology that requires import permit when transferred to a Chinese party.

PM lauds Israel’s biggest illegal arms bust: ‘We’re not talking, but doing’ | 9 November 2021 | Times of Israel

Bennett inspects weapons seized in undercover operation to stem tide of crime in Arab communities; says others will be brought to justice after dozens of dealers arrested.

Afghanistan and the danger of small arms transfers | 2 November 2021 | Inkstickmedia

In recent weeks, former members of Afghanistan’s US-trained and armed intelligence service and elite military units have joined the Islamic State-Khorasan (ISK) in Afghanistan, including an Afghan national army officer that commanded the military’s weapons and ammunition depot in southeastern Afghanistan. Moreover, the Taliban have used US-made assault rifles to interrupt and stop protests in Kabul. While US weapons have supported anti-democracy and anti-US organizations in fighting war and committing human rights violations all over the world, these two examples in Afghanistan illustrate how US weapons sales and military training can — and often do — backfire.

Pakistan’s military ties with Myanmar: Window-dressing for Chinese arms trade? | 29 October 2021 | MenaFN

The first week of September, 2021 saw a surprise development in defence relations between Islamabad and Naypyidaw, as a high-level delegation from Pakistan’s Defense Ministry made a visit to Myanmar, unannounced by either side.

Vietnam Military Technical Institute unveils PTH130-K225B 130mm SPG | 29 October 2021 | ArmyRecognition

VietDefense echoed the progress made by the Vietnamese army in getting a larger caliber self-propelled artillery system than what it was operating. This results now in the PTH130-K225B 130mm SPG developed by the Military Technical Institute.

EUROPE

Serbian army to receive PASARS air defense systems armed with MISTRAL 3 missiles | 29 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Serbian Ministry of Defense on December 28, 2021, the Serbian army will receive in 2022, 12 new PASARS mobile short/medium-range air defense systems armed with 40mm Bofors gun L/70 and MISTRAL 3 surface-to-air missile manufactured by the company MBDA.

Serbia to receive this month Russian-made Kornet anti-tank guided missile | 29 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information released by the Serbian Minister of Defense, Mister Nebojša Stefanović, Serbia will receive in December 2021, Russian Kornet anti-tank guided missile that will be used by the 72nd Special Operations Brigade. The Russian missile will be mounted on the Milosh, a 4×4 armored vehicle.

Swedish army is now equipped with 40 Mjölner 120mm self-propelled mortar vehicles | 29 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Four years after the signature of the contract, the FMV (Defense Materiel Administration) of Sweden has delivered 40 Mjölner 120mm self-propelled mortar vehicles based on the CV90 tracked chassis to the Swedish army.

Rekord-Waffenexporte der Regierung Merkel. Nur ein Kontrollgesetz kann solche skandalösen Ausfuhren verhindern | 28 December 2021 | Der Tagesspiegel

Wenn das mal nicht von Übel ist. Da hat die alte, also die Vorgängerregierung doch in den letzten Tagen ihrer sowieso nur noch geschäftsführenden Tätigkeit horrende Rüstungsgeschäfte genehmigt – eine christdemokratisch geführte, von den Sozialdemokraten mitgetragene Koalition.

Czech army to acquire 949 FN Herstal Minimi machine guns | 28 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Czech Ministry of Defense on December 21, 2021, the Czech army will acquire 949 FN Herstal Minimi machine guns via the Czech company CB Servis Centrum sro. The contract includes MINIMI and MINIMI Mk 3 machine guns in 7.62mm and 5.56mm calibers.

UK licensed £2.8bn worth of arms to human rights abusers since Boris Johnson became PM | 27 December 2021 | Scottish Greens

Analysis of UK government figures by the Scottish Greens shows that the UK has licensed £2.8 billion worth of arms to human rights abusers and repressive regimes since Boris Johnson became Prime Minister in July 2019.

NGOs sue Flemish government over Turkey arms exports | 22 December 2021 | The Brussels Time

On Wednesday, a coalition of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) will present arguments to a Belgian civil court calling for an end to the export of military components to the Turkish air force.

Germany approves the sale of 16 IRIS-T SL air defense missile systems to Egypt | 20 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a news published by the Deutsche Welle website on December 16, 2021, Former Chancellor Angela Merkel’s German government has approved the sale of 16 IRIS-T SL medium-range air defense missile systems to Egypt. The IRIS-T SL is manufactured by the German company Diehl Defense.

Germany approves arms transfers to Egypt | 20 December 2021 | DefenceWeb

Germany approved the sale of three Meko A200EN frigates and air defence systems to Egypt ahead of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s departure from office.

Ukraine receives new equipment | 17 December 2021 | Janes

The Ukrainian armed forces have taken delivery of new armoured vehicles, aircraft, and vessels, the President of Ukraine website announced on 6 December.

Ventes d’armes : France et Émirats arabes unis, partenaires dans les crimes commis au Yémen ? | 14 December 2021 | FIDH

80 avions de chasse Rafale : le bilan spectaculaire de la tournée du Président Macron dans les pays du Golfe en décembre 2021 vient illustrer la vitalité des exportations de matériel militaire Français dans la région.

Poland signs contract to purchase 300 second-hand Cougar MRAP vehicles from US | 13 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a Tweet published on December 8, 2021, by Mariusz Błaszczak, the Polish Defense Minister, Poland has signed a contract with the United States for the supply of second-hand Cougar 4×4 MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicles.

New rules on UK arms trade make it ‘easier’ to sideline human rights | 12 December 2021 | The Guardian

The government has brought in new rules for the arms trade that experts fear will make it easier to ignore human rights concerns when deciding whether to allow international sales of UK-made weapons.

Polish Army receives Zmija reconnaissance vehicles | 10 December 2021 | Janes

The Polish Army received its first batch of Żmija (Viper) 4×4 long-range reconnaissance vehicles on 7 December, the Ministry of National Defence announced on its website later the same day. The ministry said the first 25 of 118 vehicles ordered are being sent to soldiers operating on Poland’s border with Belarus.

Lithuanian army gets Saab Carl Gutaf M4 antitank grenade ammunition | 9 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

In a tweet posted on December 9, the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense announced that it has signed an agreement with Sweden to acquire Carl-Gustaf M4 antitank ammunition « for the best prices and conditions ».

Révélations Disclose : Les dérives meurtrières du partenariat Franco-Égyptien | 9 December 2021 | Amnesty International France

Une complicité d’homicides illégaux, des ventes d’armes à tout prix, des technologies de surveillance françaises pour cibler des militants… La semaine du 21 novembre, le média Disclose a publié une série de révélations d’une extrême gravité concernant les relations franco-égyptiennes . Ces informations dessinent les contours d’un scandale d’Etat. Retour sur « Les mémos de la terreur ».

Russian reconnaissance units receive upgraded ASM Val silent assault rifles | 9 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Reconnaissance units of the Russian Central Military District deployed in the Samara region for the first time received upgraded silent firearms, the district said: “The scouts and snipers of the 2nd combined arms army received over 40 silent Val assault rifles and Vintorez VSSM sniper rifles”.

LPU-1 Wirus 4×4 armored reconnaissance vehicles enter service in Polish Army | 8 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

On December 7, 2021, as published by the Polish Ministry of Defense on its website, the head of the Ministry of National Defense met with soldiers who carry out tasks on the Polish-Belarusian border and handed over the first batch of long-distance reconnaissance vehicles.

Swiss Firm Executive Operates Secret Surveillance Operation, Sources Say | 6 December 2021 | Bloomberg

The co-founder of a company that has been trusted by technology giants including Google and Twitter to deliver sensitive passwords to millions of their customers also operated a service that ultimately helped governments secretly surveil and track mobile phones, according to former employees and clients.

Serbia to buy Russian new Pantsyr air defense systems | 3 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Serbia will buy new Russian-made Pantsyr anti-aircraft missile/gun systems, Serbian Interior Minister Aleksandar Vulin announced on December 2, 2021.

Alcon delivers first batch of armoured Toyota LC300 brake upgrade kits to multiple clients | 1 December 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Alcon Components Ltd, the highly acclaimed UK-based brake and clutch company, has announced the delivery of the first batch of new brake upgrade kits for the recently launched Toyota Land Cruiser 300. The brake kits were dispatched from Alcon’s Tamworth manufacturing facility in the UK.

Jankel achieves Preliminary Technical Acceptance with Belgium MoD and enters into production with their LTTV | 30 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Jankel, a world-leader in the design and manufacture of high-specification vehicle conversions and protection solutions to defence, security and NGO Customers worldwide, has successfully passed the Belgium MOD’s (BeMOD) Preliminary Technical Acceptance (PTA) project milestone with their new Light Tactical Transport Vehicle (LTTV) and is now entering into high volume production. The LTTV programme will deliver 199 of the Mercedes UNIMOG based vehicles to the BeMOD.

Turkish, Ukrainian companies team up for Mi-8 helicopter upgrades | 29 November 2021 | DefenseNews

Turkey’s largest defense company has signed a deal with two Ukrainian businesses to share upgrade work for Ukrainian-made Mi-8 helicopters.

French Army plans to acquire 1950 MBDA MMP ground-to-ground guided missiles by 2025 | 26 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information released on November 25, 2021, Following authorization from the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA), the French procurement agency, MBDA completed the delivery of a batch of MMP (Missile Moyenne Portée / medium-range missile) to the French Service Interarmées des Munitions (SIMu) on 16 November 2021, which included the 1000th MMP. According to the Loi de Programmation Militaire, the delivery of 1,950 missiles is planned by 2025.

Eurenco receives 155mm modular charge order | 26 November 2021 | Shephard Media

‘Important contract’ for Eurenco comes six months after certification of its 155mm modular charge.

Italy orders FN Herstal machine guns | 26 November 2021 | Shephard Media

Belgian manufacturer FN Herstal receives €1.4 million order from Italian MoD for machine guns.

JENOPTIK AG signs agreement to sell VINCORION | 25 November 2021 | Jenoptik AG

JENOPTIK AG has signed an agreement to sell the VINCORION division. It will be acquired by a fund managed by STAR Capital Partnership LLP (“STAR”). STAR is a leading private equity firm investing in medium-sized companies across Europe. VINCORION develops, produces, and sells mechatronic products in particular for the defense and security sector, the aviation as well as the rail and transportation industries.

US considering providing ex-Afghan Mi-17 helicopters for Ukraine | 23 November 2021 | Defence-blog

The United States is considering providing Ukraine with more weapons, including Mil Mi-17 helicopters previously belonged to the Afghan Air Force, CNN reported Monday.

Italy continues arms export to Saudi Arabia despite ban | 23 November 2021 | PressTV

Italy continues arms export to Saudi Arabia despite ban Dockers from the Autonomous Port Workers Collective union or CALP say ships carrying cargos of tanks, helicopters and other weapons are continue to be sent to Saudi Arabia from Italian ports in breach of local laws and the country’s constitution.

Estonia to procure new machine guns and sniper rifles | 22 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Estonian Center for Defense Investment (RKIK), on November 18, 2021, Estonia will procure new machine guns and sniper rifles for a total amount of $36 million with a delivery expected for 2023.

Illegale Waffenexporte nach Mexiko und der Schutz der Menschenrechte – Lessons to learn für die neue Bundesregierung? | 17 November 2021 | Amerika21

Politiker:innen und Aktivist:innen diskutieren schon lange über ein Rüstungsexportkontrollgesetz, um die unzureichende Rechtslage in Deutschland zu klären. Die neue Bundesregierung könnte endlich dafür sorgen, dieses Gesetz auf den Weg zu bringen. Warum ist dies so dringend notwendig?

Turkey intensifies military cooperation with Ukraine | 16 November 2021 | Defence-blog

Turkey is seeking new defense technologies assets in light of the regional threat and under pressure from the United States and Europe after the conclusion of a contract with Russia for the S-400, while also looking at ways to reduce dependence on Western components.

Gericht: Haenel hat Patent von Heckler & Koch verletzt | 16 November 2021 | Welt

Heckler & Koch gegen Haenel vor Gericht – wieder einmal. In der hart geführten juristischen Auseinandersetzung ziehen beide Seiten alle Register. Nun erzielt die Schwarzwälder Waffenschmiede einen Erfolg. Bis der Streit entschieden ist, wird es aber noch dauern.

Ukraine unveils BTR-4CS-T 8×8 APC for Royal Thai Navy and more customers | 15 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

As reported by Defense Studies, Facebook account of Kyiv Armored Plant, a subsidiary of Ukrainian armored vehicle builder Ukroboronprom – the Ukrainian Defence Industry Group – has published pictures of its finally assembled new BTR-4 family of armored vehicles on November 5, 2021.

Russia starts missile supplies to India despite U.S. sanctions risk | 14 November 2021 | Reuters

Russia has started supplying India with S-400 air defence missile systems, Russian news agencies reported on Sunday citing Dmitry Shugayev, the head of the Russian military cooperation agency.

Poland to procure 300 second-hand US Cougar MRAP vehicles | 10 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to a Tweet published by the Polish Ministry of Defense on November 10, 2021, the Polish Army will procure 300 second-hand MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) Cougar 4×4 vehicles from the United States.

Dutch armed forces get 284 additional Mossberg M590 shotguns | 8 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

Overall, this measure is intended to achieve standardization and to achieve the diversity of the types of weapons previously used for breaching. The Dutch armed forces are already using other variants of the Mossberg M590 series as insert shotguns in the army and navy.

Vente d’armes : le fonds norvégien KLP bannit Thales (pour la 2e fois) et Dassault Aviation | 4 November 2021 | La Tribune

Le plus important fonds de pension norvégien, en accord avec ses critères éthiques, supprime ses participations dans 14 industriels impliqués dans la fabrication d’armes contraires “aux principes humanitaires fondamentaux”. Deux Français figurent parmi les bannis : Dassault Aviation et Thales. Ce dernier avait déjà été inscrit sur liste noire en 2005, notamment pour corruption, comme plusieurs industriels français (Safran, Alstom…). Mais l’impact du désengagement devrait être insignifiant pour les deux groupes de défense au regard des participations minimes du Norvégien.

Pandora Papers: How A U.S. Law Firm Attemped To Sell A Defence Giant To China | 4 November 2021 | Oryx

Over the past decades Ukraine has garnered a questionable reputation for supplying just about any interested nation with every type of armament you could possibly imagine. Whether a country was in the market for 2500km-ranged cruise missiles (Iran), S-300 SAM systems (United States), Tu-95 and Tu-160 strategic bombers (Russia), or even a complete aircraft carrier and the blueprints to build more of them (China), Ukraine had you covered. In some cases these deals were carried out at government level and according to international law, while others were concluded in nightclubs involving bribery and a lot of alcohol.

Rüstungsexporte auch 2021 weiter im Rückgang | 3 November 2021 | RND

Die Bundesregierung hat im ersten Halbjahr 2021 deutlich weniger Rüstungsexporte genehmigt als im Vorjahreszeitraum.

Finland to purchase 10 additional K9 155mm self-propelled howitzers from South Korea | 3 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “Business Korea” website on November 3, 2021, Finland will purchase an additional batch of 10 K9 Thunder 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzers from South Korean company Hanwha Defense. The contract is scheduled to be signed next year and the first K9 will be delivered by 2025.

Belgium to acquire 9 French-made CAESAR 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers from Nexter | 2 November 2021 | ArmyRecognition

According to information released by the Belgian Ministry of Defense on October 29, 2021, Belgian armed forces will acquire 9 CAESAR NG (New Generation) from the French company Nexter, 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers to increase their artillery capabilities.

France, U.S. seek to ease tension over arms export rules | 30 October 2021 | Reuters

France and the United States agreed on Friday to explore making arms export rules more effective, addressing a long-running source of friction as their leaders met for the first time since a spat over a U.S. security pact with Britain and Australia.

French Ministry of Interior selects Soframe to renew its fleet of armored vehicles for the Gendarmerie nationale | 29 October 2021 | ArmyRecognition

French company Soframe announced on October 28 that its 4×4 armoured vehicle solution has been selected by the Ministry of Interior at the result of ” Armoured law enforcement vehicle” (VBMO, Véhicule Blindé de Maintien de l’Ordre) competition launched last spring for the renewal of the Gendarmerie nationale’s fleet.

SBU: Fines of UAH 1.5 bln imposed for illegal export of military products since year start | 29 October 2021 | Interfax Ukraine

Since the beginning of 2021, counterintelligence of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) have identified and prevented almost 59 attempts to violate the procedure for international transfers of controlled goods worth more than UAH 670 million.