End-Use Monitoring of Military Assistance to Ukraine

Peter Danssaert, Brian Wood & Markus Fahlbusch

Since late March, arms transfers to the Ukraine armed forces have increased and changed in nature to counter the invading Russian forces, their atrocities and wanton destruction of civilian infrastructure. Under Putin’s orders, Russian forces have re-concentrated in the south east of Ukraine in an attempt to conquer a land corridor to the Crimea which Russia seized in 2014 and possibly stretching the military occupation to control the port of Odesa. To counter the Russian attacks several governments in NATO and in the EU which actively support Ukraine’s right to self-determination, sovereignty and territorial integrity have announced that they will make, and are making, further and larger arms transfers to the Ukraine armed forces. Those transfers include not only SALW and ammunition, but also armoured vehicles, such as main battle tanks, self-propelled howitzers, air defence missile systems, loitering munitions, guided munitions, and suicide drones. 

The USA, United Kingdom and Germany are providing training for various military defence systems. In the U.S. the Senate passed the Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act of 2022. On 28 April the House of Representatives passed the Bill with a 417-to-10 vote. The Act allows the President to authorize “the United States Government to lend or lease defense articles to the Government of Ukraine or to governments of Eastern European countries impacted by the Russian Federation’s invasion of Ukraine to help bolster those countries’ defense capabilities and protect their civilian populations from potential invasion or ongoing aggression by the armed forces of the Government of the Russian Federation”. The same day President Biden sent a $33 billion funding request to Congress asking for “more than $20 billion in new military and security assistance, including new authority to quickly transfer weapons to Ukraine out of military stocks and supercharging a Pentagon program to arm its military”.

The increase in conventional arms transfers to the Ukraine armed forces makes calls for effective end-use monitoring of the uses and users even more urgent. From 2014 to 2020 several states that provided Ukraine with arms established end-use monitoring mechanisms in agreement with the Ukraine government and armed forces. However, as the types and scale of arms transfers to the Ukraine armed forces has increased to counter the Russian invasion that began in February 2022, legitimate questions are being raised about whether those end use and end user monitoring mechanisms have been effectively put in place. 

Between 2018 and 2019 the U.S. Government had approved the sale of Javelin anti-tank missiles and their Command Launch Units (CLUs) to Ukraine. Since 2014 the U.S. had also provided night vision devices. This equipment required, according to U.S. regulations, enhanced end-use monitoring (EEUM). This EEUM requires the physical security assessments of the storage facilities and serial number inventories of a specific list of defence articles. A 2020 audit report by the DoD Inspector General reported that during visits in November 2019 the Inspector General conducted a 100 percent physical inventory of all Javelin missiles and the CLUs in Ukraine. But the Inspector General reported that due to understaffing of the DoD monitoring teams, and non- or under-reporting by the Ukrainian armed forces of thefts or losses, the Pentagon had lost track of night vision devices .

Since 24 February circumstances have changed. Ukraine is being invaded by Russian forces and the Ukraine armed forces have appealed to the international community for urgent means of defence. U.S. officials admitted to CNN that it will be difficult to trace portable weapon systems, and the U.S. government has “factored in the risk that some of the shipments may ultimately end up in unexpected places”. Nonetheless, a Congressional source told CNN, that the U.S. has various tools in its possession to mitigate this risk, including for instance extensive use of satellite imagery, and monitoring of the Russian and Ukrainian electronic communications. The U.S. government has accepted Ukraine’s urgent need for more arms and ammunition outweighs the long-term risk of weapons ending up on the illicit market or in the wrong hands.

A Department of State spokesperson told IPIS “All recipients of U.S. origin defense equipment are expected to comply with the terms of the applicable transfer agreements, which, among other requirements, do not allow the retransfer of equipment to third parties without prior U.S. government authorization. The United States takes these obligations seriously and engages with allies and partners when and where reports of unauthorized transfer have been alleged to occur. Consistent with the Leahy Law, the United States does not provide assistance to units of foreign security forces when we have credible information that the unit committed a gross violation of human rights. Accordingly, the United States has conducted and will continue to conduct “Leahy vetting” for Ukrainian security force units nominated for assistance.”(1)

In principle, the EU member states have agreed upon the need to establish risk mitigation measures including end-use monitoring in respect of their arms transfers to Ukraine. The risk mitigation measures announced by the EU include: a commitment of Ukraine to not transfer the arms to any other body, or to re-export the arms without prior EU agreement; prior agreement of Ukraine to possible EU on-site verification “on request’; active monitoring by the EU of Ukrainian armed units receiving military equipment to ensure that those units fully comply with IHL and IHRL; investigation and prosecution of any such IHL and IHRL violations; and termination of the supplies “in case the Ukrainian authorities are in breach of their obligations under international law, in particular IHRL/IHL”.(2)

Since the beginning of the Russian invasion, the German government has provided the Ukrainian armed forces with anti-tank weapons, anti-aircraft missiles, SALW and ammunition amongst others. Furthermore, it has approved the transfer of Gepard anti- aircraft tanks and armoured howitzers. 

The German government has stated that these transfers to the Ukraine armed forces will be accompanied by end-use monitoring measures to prevent illicit diversion of the arms. According to its official communication, the German government subjects any potential re-exports of those arms from Ukraine to prior consent by the German authorities. The Ukrainian government has also agreed to allow further potential post-shipment controls such as on-site verification of the arms transferred to the Ukraine armed forces.(3) The German government now routinely includes these measures in all arms exports and it advocates that other ATT member states should adopt such post-shipment measures. However, the German authorities have not yet undertaken any on-site verification inspections in Ukraine. Germany’s post shipment verification missions to monitor end uses of its arms transfers to selected countries began in May 2017.(4)

The U.S. and its major allies providing the Ukrainian armed forces with arms to defend the country against Russian attacks and occupation seem to agree that the effective implementation of end-use monitoring measures relating to possible diversion and to serious violations of human right and IHL is highly desirable despite the major difficulties of doing that in combat zones and forward depots of a country embroiled in a full scale armed conflict. Some end use monitoring was carried out by the U.S in 2018 and 2019 prior to this year’s major Russian invasion. However, it is not known whether effective end use monitoring by the authorities of arms transferring states is currently being carried out in Ukraine. 

Given previous failures to prevent their arms being used for serious violations of human rights and IHL in other countries such as Yemen, questions need to be raised as to whether the arms supplying states are continuously and comprehensively monitoring the use of the arms they transfer to Ukraine in addition to diversion risks, and if notification of all end-use violations are being reported to the government and oversight authorities so that corrective measures can be taken. 

(1) Communication IPIS with Department of State, 6 May 2022.

(2) Council of the European Union, General Secretariat to Delegations, ‘Concept Note for an assistance measure under the European Peace Facility for the supply to the Ukrainian Armed Forces of military equipment, and platforms, designed to deliver lethal force’, Brussels, 27 February 2022, pp. 5-6

(3) Communication IPIS with the German Federal Foreign Office, 7 May 2022.

(4) Federal Ministry for Economic and Energy, Bericht der Bundesregierung über ihre Exportpolitik für konventionelle Rüstungsgüter im Jahre 2020 (June 2021).

Photo: 22 April 2022, U.S. Marine Corps M777 towed 155 mm howitzers are part of the United States’ efforts alongside allies and partners to identify and provide Ukraine with additional capabilities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Austin Fraley)

IN THE NEWS

RUSSIAN INVASION OF UKRAINE

The Underexplored Obligation under International Human Rights Law to Avert the Risks of War | 22 April 2022 | Ka Lok Yip | Opinio Juris

In view of the gravity of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it is understandable that most legal commentators focus on the legal norms regulating the event directly, jus contra bellum, rather than other legal norms regulating the tendencies that make up the more distant causes of the event. This approach tends, in the words of Judge Kooijman in the DRC v Uganda, to isolate from a ‘tangled web’ of causes of war ‘one element’ over which a clear judgment can be made: Russia’s aggression. The result is a fairly black-and-white picture of Russia’s flagrant breach of international law and Putin’s crime, where the only remaining issue is the technical one of how to hold them accountable e.g. through sanctions, inter-state proceedings or criminal justice mechanisms.

When did the Armed Attack against Ukraine become ‘Imminent’? | 20 April 2022 | Marko Milanovic | EJIL:Talk!

When did Russia’s armed attack on Ukraine begin? And, before it began, when did it become imminent, as that term is commonly understood in the international law on the use of force? In this post I will offer some thoughts on these two questions, not because they are directly relevant to the situation in Ukraine – they are not, because Ukraine’s defensive actions against Russia were not pre-emptive – but because, I submit, Ukraine as a case study can teach us some useful lessons on the workability of the notion of imminence. And that notion may be central in evaluating future conflicts, some of which may be at least as dangerous as Russia’s assault on Ukraine. If, say, the United States or Israel ever choose to intervene militarily against Iran or North Korea, the justification they would offer would almost certainly revolve around a necessity to stop an imminent armed attack.

Violations of International Humanitarian and Human Rights Law, War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity Committed in Ukraine since 24 February 2022: Summary of the Report by a Mission of Experts under the OSCE Moscow Mechanism | 19 April 2022 | Wolfgang Benedek, Veronika Bilkova and Marco Sassòli | EJIL:Talk!

On 13 April 2022, we presented the report of our mission on Ukraine to a special session of the Permanent Council of OSCE. Based on this presentation, the following contribution summarizes the establishment and mandate, methodology and findings of our 94 pages Report.

Russia and the UN Human Rights Council: A Step in the Right Direction | 8 April 2022 | Rosa Freedman | EJIL:Talk!

The United Nations General Assembly has voted to suspend Russia’s membership of the UN Human Rights Council. This is only the second time in the Council’s 16 year history that a member has been suspended under GA resolution 60/251 paragraph 8 for committing ‘gross and systematic violations of human rights’.

China Would Violate the Arms Trade Treaty If It Sends Weapons to Russia for Use in Ukraine: Part I | 6 April 2022 | Tomas Hamilton | Opinio Juris

China Would Violate the Arms Trade Treaty If It Sends Weapons to Russia for Use in Ukraine: Part II | 7 April 2022 | Tomas Hamilton | Opinio Juris

As Russian aggression against Ukraine continues and evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity mounts, third-party States and individuals may be considering their potential liability for supplying arms to Russia.

Crimea: Key to Ending War in Ukraine | 5 April 2022 | John Quigley | Opinio Juris

Russia’s failure to achieve a quick military victory in Ukraine opens the prospect of a negotiated settlement. The military posture is key to whether Russia may look for an exit ramp, but Ukraine’s resistance may incline Russia in that direction. A negotiated settlement could come more quickly if Russia were able to withdraw claiming that its “special military operation” had achieved the aims Russia set for it.

Ukrainian Defense Ministry claims Russia lost more than USD 10Bn worth of military equipment in Ukraine| 1 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Russia has already lost more than $10 billion worth of military equipment in Ukraine to date (April 1, 2020), the Ukrainian Defense Ministry said in a statement released on Telegram, Ukrinform reports. “Due to the coordinated interaction of troops and forces, a large amount of Russian equipment is being destroyed. The enemy has already lost [military equipment] worth more than $10 billion,” the statement said.

Russian arms buyers abstain from condemning aggression in Ukraine | 22 March 2022 | Army-Technology

Nearly 300 known arms transfers took place between some of the countries that chose to abstain from condemning Russia’s military action in Ukraine and Moscow between 2010 and 2021.

Swiss prosecutor taskforce sets sights on Russian war crimes | 22 March 2022 | SwissInfo

The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) says the taskforce will collect evidence from refugees arriving in Switzerland to pass on to the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

Russia Is Lying About Evidence of Bioweapons Labs in Ukraine, Russian Biologists Say | 17 March 2022 | The Intercept

At considerable risk to their own safety, 10 Russian biologists, including researchers who remain in Russia, have publicly accused the russian government of lying about having proof that biological weapons were being developed in Ukrainian labs funded by the United States.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is illegal under international law: suggesting it’s not is dangerous | 16 March 2022 | C. Powell | DefenceWeb

While the world is largely united against the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, South African public figures, including the government, have attempted to downplay that it is, in fact, an invasion… Apologists for the invasion have focused on the West’s ‘provocation’ of Russia, particularly through its expansion of NATO to include Eastern European states such as Croatia, Estonia and Poland. But focusing on the reasons why Russia feels threatened by the West confuses causation with justification. 

How is Ukraine using western weapons to exploit Russian weaknesses? | 16 March 2022 | Financial Times

Western intelligence, war photographers and thousands of hours of unverified camera footage posted to social media have depicted the defining images of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine: destroyed, burnt out and abandoned Russian tanks and other military vehicles, blocking roads or stuck in ditches.

International Court orders Russia to ‘immediately suspend’ military operations in Ukraine | 16 March 2022 | UN News

Allegations of Genocide under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Ukraine v. Russian Federation) | 16 March 2022 | ICJ

ICJ Indicates Provisional Measures Against Russia, in a Near Total Win for Ukraine; Russia Expelled from the Council of Europe | 16 March 2022 | M. Milanovic | EJIL:Talk!

By a vote of 13 to two, with Vice-President Kirill Gevorgian of Russia and Judge Xue Hanqin of China dissenting, the ICJ ruled that Russia “shall immediately suspend the military operations that it commenced on 24 February.”

Why Creating a Special Tribunal for Aggression Against Ukraine is the Best Available Option: A Reply to Kevin Jon Heller and Other Critics | 15 March 2022 | C. McDougall | OpinioJuris

This post is a reply to the post published by Opinio Juris’ own Kevin Jon Heller and others who have criticised the proposed establishment of a Special Tribunal for Aggression against Ukraine. Below I will explain both why it is critical that those individuals responsible for Russia’s (and Belarus’) acts of aggression against Ukraine be held to account, and why, in my view, an ad hoc tribunal is the best available option to do this. 

An Off-Ramp for the War in Ukraine | 14 March 2022 | M. Weller | OpinioJuris

Possible Draft of a Framework Agreement on the Restoration of Peaceful Relations between Ukraine and the Russian Federation | 16 March 2022 | M. Weller | OpinioJuris

In an earlier post, Marc Weller provided a narrative discussion of a possible settlement for Ukraine. In this companion piece, he presents an outline of a possible settlement.

At War: When Do States Supporting Ukraine or Russia become Parties to the Conflict and What Would that Mean? | 14 March 2022 | A. Wentker | EJIL:Talk!

In the face of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Western States have been scaling up their assistance to Ukraine. In addition to massive economic and financial sanctions against Russia, many States have been delivering weapons and other military equipment to Ukraine. Some States have also been sharing ‘battlefield’ intelligence with Ukraine.

Russia’s Non-Appearance Before the ICJ Against Ukraine: Of Not So Vanishing Vanishing Acts and their Vanishingly Thin Justification | 12 March 2022 | F. Mégret | EJIL:Talk!

On 9th March 2022, Russia announced through it Foreign Ministry that “in light of the apparent absurdity of the lawsuit” launched against it by Ukraine before the ICJ, it would not “attend the hearing” on provisional measures. One can certainly have reservations about the Ukrainian strategy of invoking the Genocide Convention even if one is sympathetic to their cause; but nothing suggests that it is anything other than a good faith attempt to resolve a dispute between two states over what is, evidently, a massive disagreement.

Russia’s Recognition of the DPR and LPR: The Revival of the Constitutive Theory of Recognition? | 12 March 2022 | S. Jankovic & V. Roeben | OpinioJuris

The Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) and the Luhansk People’s Republic (LPR) declared independence from Ukraine in May 2014, following President Yanukovych’s overthrow in the 2014 Ukrainian revolution. Both ‘’Republics’’ initially merged into a Union of People’s Republics (Novorossiya), a confederation project which collapsed after a year of existence and did not attract any international recognition. Neither Russia nor Nicaragua nor Venezuela, which recognized South Ossetia and Abkhazia, were willing to extend their support to de facto independent administrations.

Russia’s Submission to the ICJ in the Genocide Case; Russia’s Withdrawal from the Council of Europe | 11 March 2022 | M. Milanovic | EJIL:Talk!

A quick update on two important developments. First, the ICJ has put up on its website a submission it received from the Russian Federation in the Ukraine v. Russia genocide case, in which the Court’s provisional measures decision is pending. Because Russia has declined to participate in the proceedings – at least for now – this submission is the most formal statement of Russia’s various legal positions publicly available. Second, Russia announced its imminent withdrawal from the Council of Europe, inevitably to be accompanied by a denunciation of the European Convention on Human Rights.

The UN’s indictment of Russia and its long-term consequences | 10 March 2022 | IISS

The UN General Assembly’s resolution on Russia’s ‘crime of aggression’ in Ukraine is unprecedented in its significance. Regardless of any diplomatic solution to the crisis, the legal implications of this indictment will play out for years to come, explains Greg Austin.

Russia’s Recognition of the ‘Separatist Republics’ in Ukraine was Manifestly Unlawful | 9 March 2022 | M. Weller | EJIL:Talk!

The rush to judgment can be deceptive. A recent contribution to these pages cautions us against making instant assumptions of fact and law when considering Russia’s recognition as states of parts of Luhansk and Donetsk Oblasts within Ukraine as manifestly unlawful.

Thou Shalt Not Distort the Language of International Law | 7 March 2022 | S. Sayapin | OpinioJuris

This post will focus on Russia’s international law discourse in the context of the new wave of military violence against Ukraine. Russia is manipulating and distorting some key concepts, among other things, pertaining to peacekeeping, rules on the use of force, and international criminal law. It will be useful to discuss several recent examples of Russia’s official rhetoric, in order to expose how Russia is using the formal language of international law for attaining internationally unlawful goals.

The Elephant in the Room: Invoking and Exercising the Right of Collective Self-Defence in Support of Ukraine against Russian Aggression | 7 March 2022 | A. de Hoogh | OpinioJuris

In the last couple of weeks, NATO, EU, heads of government and ministers of foreign affairs and defence have been repeating a carefully choreographed mantra on three points: first, recognition of the pro-Russian separatist regions of Donetsk and Luhansk is unacceptable and involves a grave violation of international law; second, if Russia invades Ukraine it will have to face severe sanctions; and third, leaving aside the delivery of weapons and other support, NATO and western States will not participate militarily in a Russian-Ukrainian conflict. A number of legal and political issues arise with respect to these positions, and this contribution will zoom in on the last issue.

Creating a Special Tribunal for Aggression Against Ukraine Is a Bad Idea | 7 March 2022 | K.J. Heller | OpinioJuris

Nearly 40 legal and political luminaries, including many people for whom I have the utmost respect — such as Dapo Akande, my Doughty Street colleague Helena Kennedy QC, and Ben Ferencz — have signed a Combined Statement and Declaration calling on the international community to create a Special Tribunal for the Punishment of the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine.

A Rundown Of Russia’s Arsenal Of Artillery That Could Wreak Havoc On Ukraine’s Cities | 4 March 2022 | The War Zone

Well over a week into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, there are no signs of a conclusion any time soon, with the Kremlin’s forces meeting stubborn resistance and increasingly resorting to the shelling of cities to try and make meaningful gains. In this kind of environment, we are only likely to see escalating use of artillery by the Russians. While Moscow’s forces have fallen short in many areas, the Russian Army’s artillery capabilities are nothing short of terrifying. Here is a complete rundown of many of the systems in Russia’s possession, all of which are currently deployed to battlefield Ukraine.

Review of the Current Sanctions and Export Controls on Russia as Military Advances through Ukraine | 4 March 2022 | Miles & Stockbridge P.C. | JD Supra

Canadian Sanctions Targeting Russia, Belarus and Separatist Territories in Ukraine Expanded in Response to the Russian Invasion of Ukraine – Updated | 4 March 2022 | Bennett Jones LLP | JD Supra

U.S. Further Escalates Russia-Related Sanctions And Export Controls, Targets Belarus | 4 March 2022 | Barnes & Thornburg LLP

In response to Russia’s continued war operations and military attacks throughout Ukraine, the U.S. government and its allies imposed many more sanctions and new export control restrictions in the past week, specifically targeting Russian financial institutions, Russian state-owned enterprises, Russian elites, and several of Russia’s critical industrial sectors. This Miles & Stockbridge alert provides a summary of the latest sanctions and developments regarding the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

Russia’s “genocide disinformation” and war propaganda are breaches of the International Convention Concerning the Use of Broadcasting in the Cause of Peace and fall within the ICJ’s jurisdiction | 4 March 2022 | T. Dias | EJIL: Talk! 

As readers may know from earlier posts on this blog (see here), Ukraine has recently filed an application before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Russia on the interpretation and application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (the Genocide Convention). In this post, I argue that separately from this case, Russia’s false allegations of genocide as a pretext to invade Ukraine – which seem to lie at the heart of Ukraine’s ICJ application – amount to a violation of Articles 2, 3 and 4 of the International Convention Concerning the Use of Broadcasting in the Cause of Peace.

Tracking State Reactions to Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine: A Resource for Research | 4 March 2022 | A. Gurmendi | OpinioJuris

By now, many readers -especially those who follow me on Twitter, will have figured out that I have a weird hobby: I like keeping track of who says what about international law in times of crisis. I’ve done it for the Syria strikes of 2018, the Venezuelan elections of 2018, the recognition of Juan Guaidó as President of Venezuela in 2019, the attack on Qasem Soleimani in 2020, and now, of course, the crisis in Ukraine.

Russian TOS-1A Heavy Flamethrowers fired controversial thermobaric rockets in Ukraine | 3 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

As reported by many media, including spectacular video footage, Russian TOS-1A Heavy Flamethrowers fired thermobaric rockets, also known as aerosol bombs or fuel-air explosives, on Kharkiv. And they will keep on doing it on (many) more targets in Ukraine.

Aggression against Ukraine: Avenues for Accountability for Core Crimes | 3 March 2022 | S. Vasiliev | EJIL: Talk!

The unprovoked attack by Russia against Ukraine should be qualified as a crime against peace, or the crime of aggression, as defined in Article 6(a) of the IMT Charter and in Article 8bis of the ICC Statute. There are also allegations of war crimes as the Russian armed forces have targeted non-military objectives and civilians in urban and densely populated areas using imprecise weapons such as ballistic missiles and cluster munitions.

Will a state supplying weapons to Ukraine become a party to the conflict and thus be exposed to countermeasures? | 2 March 2022 | K. Ambos | EJIL: Talk!

According to the time-honoured law of neutrality, the territory of neutral powers is “inviolable” (Art. 1 Hague “Convention (V) respecting the Rights and Duties of Neutral Powers and Persons in Case of War on Land, October 18, 1907). Parties to a conflict may therefore not use it in any conflict-related manner, e.g. to transport war material (Art. 2 Hague Convention (V)). But when does a state lose its neutrality?

Ukraine and Russia Before International Courts – Recent Developments | 2 March 2022 | G. Pecorella | International Law Blog

Article 2(3) UN Charter provides for an obligation upon states to settle their disputes by peaceful means. The Charter itself, under its article 33 (1), lists the means states can freely choose to this end. Among others, when it comes to the ongoing situation in Ukraine, negotiation and judicial settlement have been attempted by the Ukrainian authorities in the last few days.

Belarus is Complicit in Russia’s War of Aggression | 1 March 2022 | N. Reetz | EJIL: Talk!

As states are rolling out sanctions against Russia, they are starting to extend sanctions to Belarus. In addition, some states are explicitly including Belarus in their accusations against Russia for violating international law. This begs the question of what responsibility Belarus bears for its role in the Russian attack against Ukraine. By permitting the use of its territory, Belarus could be complicit in Russia’s unlawful use of force and could itself be committing an act of aggression.

ARMS TRADE TREATY

Why is the Biden Administration Still Silent on Arms Trade Treaty? | 27 April 2022 | Stimson Center

For the United States to remain on the sidelines of a treaty it helped negotiate and that is in the U.S. interest is inconsistent with those values and commitment.

Taking Stock of ATT Reporting Trends and Challenges | 27 April 2022 | Stimson Center

The Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) is the world’s first global, legally binding instrument to regulate the conventional arms trade. Under the ATT, States Parties are required to submit an initial report on treaty implementation as well as annual reports on their arms exports and imports. These reports can serve as important tools for understanding, monitoring, and evaluating global weapons flows and national transfer control systems. Unfortunately, ATT reporting is not living up to its potential.

At Whose Risk? Understanding States Parties’ Implementation of Arms Trade Treaty Gender-based Violence Provisions | 31 March 2022 | Small Arms Survey | ReliefWeb

The Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) is the first legally binding agreement linking international conventional arms transfers to gender-based violence (GBV), but there has been limited practical application of these specific provisions to date, finds a new study from the Small Arms Survey.

GENERAL

Making a Killing: Who profits from the global arms trade? (video) | 4 April 2022 | DW

In this edition of Business Beyond, we are looking at how the global arms trade functions and consider the question: How much of the global export of deadly weapons and sales is about profit rather than security?

We need international agreement around dual-use surveillance technologies | 7 March 2022 | Slate

In Myanmar, as Lighthouse Reports note, “being tracked can be a matter of life and death.” Since the military junta took power in a coup on Feb. 1, 2021, it has used military-grade surveillance technology, such as surveillance drones, phone cracking, and computer hacking software, to track citizens and steal data. Some of these technologies came from Western companies, despite restrictions on their export and use. The result has not only been the curbing of basic freedoms, but an enhanced architecture for state violence.

IHL/HRL

Prosecuting Atrocity Crimes Committed in Northern Ethiopia: The Need for Special National Prosecution Mechanism | 4 April 2022 | Wubeshet Tiruneh | EJIL:Talk!

Over the last four years, serious human rights violations and abuses, have been committed in Ethiopia in and outside of the context of an armed conflict. These violations may constitute international crimes, such as crimes against humanity, war crimes and torture. The situation particularly worsened and garnered international attention after an armed conflict broke out in Tigray on November 3rd, 2020, and later expanded to Afar and Amhara regions of Ethiopia.

The Houthi Attacks Against the UAE: Rules of Conflict and International Law of State Responsibility | 12 March 2022 | L. Alghoozi | EJIL:Talk!

The conflict in Yemen has spread beyond the confines of Yemen, with the Houthis mounting attacks against critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) using drones and missiles. This article explores the recent strikes against Abu Dhabi under international humanitarian law, and explores the possibility of attribution under international law of state responsibility to Iran, a primary funder and supporter of the Houthis.

Crimes and responsibility: All quiet on the Western front | 9 March 2022 | TBS News

Haditha, Iraq, 19 November 2005. Five unarmed Iraqi men, a taxi driver and four teenagers, are ordered out of their car and shot dead in the street by US Army Staff Sgt. Frank Wuterich. And then Sgt. Sanick Dela Cruz urinates on the bloody remains of one of the men just fatally shot by his squad leader. The Marines then proceed to storm two houses and kill numerous men, women and children, including some still in their beds wearing pyjamas.

AFRICA

Senegal orders 105 mm howitzers from Nexter | 29 April 2022 | DefenceWeb

Nexter has been contracted to supply LG1 105 mm towed howitzers to Senegal in the first direct sale between Senegal’s military and the French company.

Nexter to supply 8 105 LG artillery guns to Armed Forces of Senegal | 28 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

The contract for the supply by Nexter to the Armed Forces of Senegal of 8 105 LG guns and 105mm ammunition came into effect on April 20.

‘White hands’: The rise of private armies in African conflicts | 28 April 2022 | al Jazeera

Mercenaries have become increasingly influential as states across Africa find their armies unable to limit the widening reach of armed groups.

Six more Swiftships patrol craft for Egypt | 28 April 2022 | DefenceWeb

The Egyptian Navy will be getting another six 28 metre long Coastal Patrol Craft from Swiftships along with other equipment under a $22 million foreign military sale. The vessels will be co-produced in Egypt under a long-running arrangement.

Angolan C295 order firmed up | 26 April 2022 | DefenceWeb

Angola has placed a firm order for three Airbus C295 aircraft, four years after its government first revealed plans to acquire the aircraft, which will be used for maritime patrol amongst other duties.

Proforce signs UAV agreement with France’s Aeraccess | 26 April 2022 | DefenceWeb

Nigeria’s Proforce has signed an agreement with France’s Aeraccess for the production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as Proforce expands its portfolio into the UAV sector.

Cotonou wants Turkish drones and Chinese armaments to defend its borders (Paywall) | 26 April 2022 | Africa Intelligence Daily

Faced with an increasing number of attacks from armed groups in northern Benin, the authorities in Cotonou have stepped up their efforts to find suppliers able to provide them with air defence systems. Among the contenders are Turkey’s Baykar group, China’s PolyTech and France’s A-NSE.

European Union provides more funding for Mozambican military | 22 April 2022 | DefenceWeb

The European Union has provided another €45 million in funding for Mozambique’s military, and this will include equipment, supplies and training.

Zondo seeks an extension to 15 June to finalise state capture report | 22 April 2022 | Mail & Guardian

Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has asked the high court for a six-week extension of the deadline to deliver the fifth and final instalment of the report of the commission of inquiry into state capture.

Nigerian Army Recovers 517 Arms, Weapons In Plateau, Bauchi, Kaduna | 21 April 2022 | Daily Trust

Personnel of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), a multi-security task force maintaining peace and harmony in Plateau and some parts of Bauchi, have recovered 517 small arms and light weapons from criminal elements within a short period. 

US approves sale of arms worth $1bn to Nigeria | 15 April 2022 | Army-Technology

Le Nigeria devrait pouvoir se procurer 12 hélicoptères d’attaque AH-1Z « Viper » auprès des États-Unis | 15 April 2022 | Opex360

According to the US State Department, this sale will not change the military balance in the Sub-Saharan African region.

African Experts Meet in Accra to Review Ghana’s Firearms Legislation | 13 April 2022 | Ghanian Times | AllAfrica

Experts in firearms regulation and security from African countries are meeting in Accra, to help Ghana review its legislation on firearms, and incorporate international instruments into them.

New German-made IRIS-T SLM air defense missile system of Egypt armed forces | 7 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

The first picture of the new Egyptian IRIS-T SLM medium-range ground-based air defense (GBAD) system was released on the Twitter account of Mahmoud Gamal on April 7, 2022.

Mali receives Mi-24s and radars from Russia | 4 April 2022 | DefenceWeb

Mali’s military has received two Mi-24P attack helicopters from Russia as part of continuing efforts to bolster the country’s armed forces.

Egyptian Temsah 3 light 4×4 armored vehicle likely in mass production | 1 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a tweet from Mahmoud Gamal, the indigenous Egyptian designed Temsah 3 light wheeled armored vehicle has likely entered the mass production phase at Factory 200 (Tank plant).

Saab wins training and simulation contract in Kenya | 28 March 2022 | DefenceWeb

Kenya’s Ministry of Defence has awarded Saab a contract for live training systems in a first for the Swedish company.

Uganda contracts India’s HAL to maintain Su-30 fleet | 25 March 2022 | DefenceWeb

Uganda has awarded Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) a contract to maintain and support its Su-30 combat aircraft fleet in a historic deal.

Islamist arms supply in northern Mozambique trace | 24 March 2022 | DefenceWeb

Islamist insurgents in northern Mozambique have come a long way from the machetes they brandished when terror attacks started in 2017 and are now using AK-47s, rocket propelled grenade launchers and machine guns, mostly sourced from the Mozambican military.

Nigeria’s Rivers State gets new patrol boats | 24 March 2022 | DefenceWeb

The government of Nigeria’s Rivers State has donated 14 boats to local security forces to combat maritime crime in the state.

China donates military vehicles and equipment to Somalia | 23 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a tweet from the Chinese embassy in Somalia, China has donated nearly $5 million worth of military hardware, including vehicles, to Somalia. The vehicles and equipment were handed over on March 18 during a ceremony at the Port of Mogadishu.

Paramount Group Mbombe 4 secures orders from 5 countries | 22 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Paramount Group announced on March 22 that its Mbombe 4 Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV), has been selected by five nations to equip their armed forces with some of the most advanced armoured vehicle innovations and technologies available in the world.

Niger orders Ejder Yalçin APCs, Bayraktar TB2 drones and Hurkus attack aircraft | 18 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to Guy Martin in Defence Web, Niger has ordered armored personnel carriers (APCs) from Turkish company Nurol Makina, in addition to Bayraktar TB2 UAVs and Hurkus turboprop trainer/light attack aircraft.

Russia is largest supplier of weapons to Africa | 15 March 2022 | The Independent (Uganda)

A new report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), an organisation that tracks arms trade, indicates that Russia was the largest supplier of weapons for African countries for the period ranging from 2017-2021. Russia’s weapons sales to Africa accounted for 44% of imports of major arms to the continent followed by the US (17%), China (10%) and France (6.1%).

Niger announces Nurol armoured vehicle order | 15 March 2022 | Janes

Niger has ordered armoured vehicles from Nurol Makina, the country’s presidency announced on 11 March.

Investigation into arms flows to al-Shabaab insurgents points to Mozambican military | 15 March 2022 | Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime | Daily Maverick

Since conflict broke out in Cabo Delgado in 2017, the weaponry used by the insurgents in northern Mozambique has become more sophisticated. Yet the source of these weapons has not been definitively determined.

US donates construction vehicles to Niger | 9 March 2022 | DefenceWeb

Construction vehicles that would be too expensive to ship back to the United States have been donated to Niger after the US military completed Air Base 201 in Agadez.

Morocco’s gendarmerie acquires TX-10 boats | 2 March 2022 | DefenceWeb

Morocco’s gendarmerie has acquired TX-10.0 boats from European shipyard Vanguard Marine.

Ghana commissions Flex Fighter vessels; will be acquiring more OPVs | 1 March 2022 | DefenceWeb

Ghana’s President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has commissioned four new Flex Fighter vessels for the Ghana Navy and revealed that two new offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) will be acquired.

AMERICAS

US begins to train Ukrainian troops in Germany | 29 April 2022 | The Hill

The U.S. has started to train Ukrainian troops on howitzer artillery systems and radars at U.S. military installations in Germany, the Pentagon’s top spokesperson said Friday. 

White House sends Congress $33B request for Ukraine | 28 April 2022 | Politico

The Biden administration is asking Congress for a massive new $33 billion funding request to bolster Ukraine’s military as its war with Russia enters its ninth week, ensuring that Washington, and Europe, remain all-in on beating back Russia’s Feb. 24 invasion.

Canada to provide Ukraine with eight 4×4 armored vehicles manufactured by Roshel | 27 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “Global News” on April 26, 2022, Canada has finalized a deal with the Canadian Defense company Roshel to send eight armored vehicles that could be the Senator APC, a 4×4 armored personnel carrier.

Seeking Arms for Ukraine, Pentagon Buyers Scour Eastern European Factories | 25 April 2022 | New York Times

Just off a runway on a Polish airfield, forklifts busily emptied an Air Force C-17 transport jet of its cargo alongside a much smaller civilian propeller-driven plane, ferrying pallets of green boxes full of munitions from each to a nearby asphalt parking lot filling up with many dozens of them.

Canada to deliver state-of-the-art Excalibur 155mm GPS guided munitions to Ukraine | 24 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

On April 22, 2022, the Canadian Ministry of Defense (MoD) announced the delivery of M777 155mm towed howitzers and ammunition to Ukraine. Citing additional information released by the Canadian MoD, the shipment of ammunition will also include an undisclosed number of GPS precision-guided Excalibur artillery ammunition.

Buyers Beware: China’s Military Sales Are Unreliable, Poor Quality | 24 April 2022 | IndiaWest Journal

Of late, China has raised security concerns in the Indian Ocean region with strategic military sales like submarines to Bangladesh and Pakistan. China contends to be a key defense exporter to many Asian and Southeast Asian countries in India’s neighborhood.

Canada delivers M777 155mm towed howitzers to Ukraine | 23 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a statement published by the Canadian Ministry of Defense on April 22, 2022, Canada provides an undisclosed number of M777 towed howitzers and associated ammunition to the armed forces of Ukraine. While this equipment comes from the inventory of the Canadian Armed Forces, the capability will be replenished.

US to deliver more 155mm towed howitzers and Phoenix Ghost suicide drones to Ukraine | 22 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a statement published by the United States Department of Defense on April 21, 2022, the United States will provide new aid of military equipment for a value of $800 million including 72 155 mm howitzers, 144,000 artillery rounds, 121 Phoenix Ghost unmanned aerial systems and vehicles with which to tow the howitzers.

US to send another $800m military package to Ukraine | 22 April 2022 | Army-Technology

US DoD statement on USD 800 Million in additional security assistance for Ukraine | 22 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

The package will include 155mm howitzers, artillery rounds, tactical vehicles, and drones.

US Army selects Sig Sauer Next Generation Squad Weapon System | 21 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Army Recognition published on April 20 the information according to which Sig Sauer is awarded the Next Generation Squad Weapons System (NGSW) Contract by the U.S. Army after a rigorous 27-month testing and evaluation process. The manufacturer is adding some information about this contract.

Oklahoma man sentenced to prison for trafficking weapons to Mexican cartels | 20 April 2022 | KFOR

A federal judge sentenced Andrew Scott Pierson Wednesday afternoon after Pierson pleaded guilty in November 2021 to charges of conspiracy to violate the Arms Export Control Act, admitting to prosecutors that he was ordering parts for guns in the United States in order to build automatic weapons in Mexico.

ITAR & EAR Export Controls on Firearms – Five Important Points You Need to Know | 14 April 2022 | Williams Mullen | JD Supra

In January 2020, the U.S. Departments of State and Commerce published regulations transferring certain firearms, ammunition, components, and accessories from controls under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). At the same time, Commerce issued companion regulations establishing controls for the newly transferred items under the EAR. The result of these parallel actions by State and Commerce is a complex, bifurcated system of export controls on firearms and related items. The firearms industry in particular must now navigate both the ITAR and EAR and understand when and how each set of regulations applies to specific products and transactions.

Mexican cartels swap arms for cocaine, fueling Colombia violence | 13 April 2022 | Reuters

Mexican drug cartels appear to be shipping high-powered weapons to Colombia to purchase shipments of cocaine, a trade Colombian authorities say is fueling the deadly struggle between rival traffickers for control of the nation’s drug routes.

U.S. gun makers urge judge to throw out Mexico’s $10 billion lawsuit | 12 April 2022 | Reuters

A U.S. judge on Tuesday questioned whether allowing Mexico to sue U.S. gun manufacturers for facilitating the trafficking of weapons to drug cartels would open the door to other countries suing them, including Russia over firearms used by Ukrainians in the ongoing war.

Lend-Lease for Ukraine: US revives WWII anti-Hitler policy to defeat Putin | 9 April 2022 | Atlantic Council

On April 7, the US Senate unanimously passed the “Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act of 2022,” a revival of FDR’s Lend-Lease policy enacted in March 1941 which helped win the Second World War.

US private companies send thousands of AR-15 style assault rifles to Ukraine | 6 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by Fox Business on April 4, 2022, private businesses across America are sending weapons directly into the war zone. Adams Arms, an American gun manufacturer, is sending 2,500 AR-15-style assault rifles to Kyiv:”We’re just a passionate group of people, and when liberty or freedom is in jeopardy, then, you know, we take that personally. For us to be able to help has just been an overwhelming feeling, and I’m proud of my team,” Adams Arms president Jason East said to Fox Business.

US to send additional $300m worth of military aid to Ukraine | 4 April 2022 | Army-Technology

The new package will include laser-guided rocket systems, uncrewed aerial systems, and machine guns, among others.

$100 Million in New U.S. Civilian Security Assistance for Ukraine | 26 March 2022 | U.S. Department of State

The United States intends to provide an additional $100 million in civilian security assistance to enhance the capacity of the Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs to provide essential border security, sustain civil law enforcement functions, and safeguard critical governmental infrastructure in the face of President Putin’s premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustified attack.

Mexico v. Smith & Wesson: Cross-Border Implications | 24 March 2022 | William Slomanson | ASIL Insights

In August 2021, Mexico filed suit against multiple gun-industry defendants, blaming U.S., Austrian, and Italian entities for their role in the killing and maiming of children, judges, journalists, police, and ordinary citizens throughout the country. Most of these defendants sell their guns, via a Boston-area wholesaler, for resale to gun dealers throughout the U.S.2 On this basis, Mexico filed its complaint in Boston’s Federal District Court…

Securing the rare earth supply chain is crucial for defence | 23 March 2022 | Army-Technology

Some of the most modern defence equipment relies on parts made of rare earth elements. The majority of the planet’s reserves, however, is found in China, making the US and other nations heavily dependent on imports. Norbert Neumann looks at the importance of rare earths and ways the US is trying to weaken reliance on Chinese imports.

Brazil Arms Traffickers Used Portable Technology to Manufacture Gun Parts | 18 March 2022 | Insight Crime

Brazilian authorities recently dismantled a criminal network trafficking weapons from the US to Brazil with a twist: The gang imported gun parts and then used a dedicated CNC mill to assemble the weapons on arrival. 

ASIA

Turkish FNSS MAV Zaha amphibious assault vehicle to be produced by Indonesian defense company PT Pindad | 29 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

PT Pindad President Abraham Mose and FNSS Country Manager Tolgo Sipahi signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 20 April 2022, witnessed by Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, Asia Pacific Defense Journal reports. The Zaha amphibious assault vehicle is intended to meet the Indonesian Navy’s requirement for new Amphibious Landing and Amphibious Recovery armored vehicles for the Indonesian Marine Corps (Marinirs).

Australia approves the sending of six M777 155mm towed howitzers to Ukraine | 28 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

On April 28, 2022, the government of Australia approves the sending of six M777 155mm lightweight towed howitzers as well as 155mm ammunition to Ukraine. The Australian government announced that it would continue to offer military aid to Ukraine’s armed forces.

China’s dominance of the rare earths supply chain is a geopolitical risk | 27 April 2022 | Army-Technology

The Western world must draw up its own strategic plan for rare earths; otherwise, China will be able to control the price of the metals simply by adjusting supply.

Illegal smuggling of US-made weapons from Afghanistan to Pakistan and its trade: a thriving business in Pakistan | 20 April 2022 | Newsday

As the US began to wind down its operation in they left much of the military equipment and weapons at the disposal of the Afghan forces which eventually fell into the hands of the Taliban.

Document reveals $14 billion backlog of US defense transfers to Taiwan | 14 April 2022 | AirForce Times | Yahoo

Pandemic-related acquisition issues have sparked a backlog in the U.S. delivering $14.2 billion worth of military equipment to Taiwan that the island has purchased since 2019.

US must push for transparency in UAE defence sector, experts urge | 14 April 2022 | Middle East Eye

UAE’s close collaboration with Russia, as well as its secret contracts tied to arms deals, have created concerns over corruption and money laundering

Qatar receives first NH90 NFH helos | 7 April 2022 | Janes

Qatar has received from Leonardo the first of 12 NHIndustries (NHI) NH90 NATO Frigate Helicopters (NFHs) ordered in 2018.

Indian Army inducts Russian Igla-S MANPADS air defense systems | 5 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

The Indian Army, which has for long been looking for new man-portable air defence systems, has inducted a small number of Igla-S systems recently bought from Russia under emergency procurement, Dinakar Peri reports in The Hindu. However, a much larger contract for Igla-S systems under the Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORAD) deal is still pending and under review by the Defence Ministry: “The contract was signed in December 2020 and the equipment was delivered by December 2021. This includes 24 launchers, 216 missiles and testing equipment,” one of the sources said.

India to procure 15 Light Combat Helicopters | 31 March 2022 | Janes

India’s Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved the procurement of 15 Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs) developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Pakistan unveils its new Chinese-made SH-15 155mm 6×6 howitzer during national day parade | 23 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a video published by the Pakistani armed forces on March 23, 2022, Pakistan presents for the first time to the public its new Chinese-made SH-15 6×6 155mm self-propelled howitzer during the national day military parade that was held on March 23, 2022.

US transfers Patriot air defense missile systems to Saudi Arabia to counter aerial attacks | 22 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by “The Wall Street Journal” website on March 21, 2022, the United States has transferred an undisclosed number of Patriot air defense missile systems to Saudi Arabia within the past month to counter aerial attacks.

China delivers 44 VT5 light tanks to Bangladesh in 2021 | 22 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to the SIPRI (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute ) arms trade database, in 2021, China has delivered 44 VT5 light tanks to Bangladesh.

Blood on their hands: the estimated £20bn value of UK-made arms that bomb Yemen | 22 March 2022 | The Canary

An estimate from the United Nations (UN) shows that by the end of 2021, 377,000 people will have been killed during the war in Yemen. Around 150,000 people have been killed from the conflict, and many more have died from disease and hunger caused by the humanitarian crisis Yemen now faces.

Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifles to be at last produced in India | 21 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

In a tweet posted on March 20, Indian Defense News writes that an Indian ambassador has stated a piece of information that has already been in the air for several months: Kalashnikov assault rifles will be produced in India.

China issues new rules on military equipment procurement contracts | 21 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Liu Xuanzun reports in Global Times that China put into effect new interim rules to regulate military equipment procurement contracts on Sunday, March 20, that aim to advance the quality and efficiency of equipment procurement, with analysts saying that the new regulations, together with several others that have taken effect since last year related to military equipment, will serve as vital steps to China’s pursuit of national defense modernization.

Taiwan army to receive first two M1A2T Abrams tanks in June | 16 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to Taiwan News, Taiwan is set to receive its first two U.S.-made M1A2T main battle tanks by June 30. The two newly-built tanks will be handed over in the U.S., where Taiwanese Army officers will learn to drive, fire, and maintain the vehicles. After training, they will return to Taiwan as instructors, the Liberty Times reported. Taiwan purchased 108 M1A2T tanks in 2021.

FNSS shipping platforms of serial production Kaplan MT Medium Tanks to Indonesia | 16 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Kaplan MT Medium Tank project was initiated with G2G Agreement between the Presidency of Defence Industries of Türkiye (SSB) and the Ministry of Defence of Indonesia. In 2015, a corporation agreement was signed between DG Defence Potential of Indonesia and SSB in order to develop two prototype vehicles. Within the scope of the project under the Kaplan MT (Tiger, or Harimau in the Indonesian language) Medium-Weight Class Tank Serial Production Long-Term Collaboration Agreement signed between FNSS Savunma Sistemleri A.Ş. and PT Pindad in 2019, FNSS completed the production of the first batch of vehicles with the serial production configuration.

Iraq has launched discussions to procure Rheinmetall KF41 tracked armored IFVs | 16 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “Tactical Report” website on March 15, 2022, Iraq has launched discussions with the German company Rheinmetall to procure KF41 Lynx tracked armored IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle).

EU firms still supplying Myanmar military despite arms embargo | 15 March 2022 | Mizzima

According to the campaign group Justice for Myanmar a private Myanmar military arms broker, Miya Win International, has procured parts for the Myanmar military’s Camcopter S-100 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) via Russia after last year’s coup.

South Korean Doosan Infracore delivers DV27K engine to power Turkish Altay MBT | 15 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to Daily Sabah, the engine for Turkey’s long-awaited indigenously developed Altay main battle tank (MBT) has arrived from South Korea, Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) head Ismail Demir said Sunday, March 13: “The tests of the engine’s power systems are currently underway. We are waiting for May. We will see the prototype of the tank with this engine,” he said while speaking to a group of journalists on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF).

Safran to supply portable optronics to Australian Defence Force | 14 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Safran Electronics & Defense Australasia has been awarded a contract by Collins Aerospace to provide its full suite of advanced portable optronics to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) as part of the Land 17 Phase 2 Digital Terminal Control Systems (DTCS) Capability Assurance Program. Safran will complete the delivery of this equipment by mid-2023.

Philippines to acquire Mi-17 transport helos | 11 March 2022 | Janes

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is expected to begin receiving the first tranche of 17 new Mil Mi-17 twin-engine multirole transport helicopters from Russia by the end of 2023, amid the continuing Ukrainian conflict.

Saudi Arabia signs 23 contracts worth $3.5bln at WDS | 10 March 2022 | Zawya

The Saudi Ministry of Defense (MoD) announced the closing of 23 deals worth more than SR13 billion ($3.46 billion) with local and international companies on the fourth day of the World Defense Show (WDS) 2022.

UAE Surprisingly Plans For Chinese Jet Trainer | 9 March 2022 | Aviation Week

In a surprise move, the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) defense ministry announced Feb. 23 it was planning to contract with China’s National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corp. (CATIC) to purchase 12 L-15 advanced jet trainers, with options for 36 more.

Saudi, Chinese firms sign deal on space technologies, satellites, AI cooperation | 9 March 2022 | Xinhua

Three tech firms from Saudi Arabia and China on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of innovative space technologies, satellites, artificial intelligence (AI) and geospatial products.

ERAF and Navistar sign an agreement to assemble MAXXPRO MRAPs in Saudi Arabia | 9 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Saudi company ERAF and American company NAVISTAR have signed an agreement on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, during the World Defense Show 2022 that takes place in Riyadh to assemble the MAXXPRO MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle) in a new facility in Saudi Arabia.

Turkish T129 helos arrive in the Philippines, half a year behind initial schedule | 9 March 2022 | DefenseNews

The first T129B attack helicopters arrived in the Philippines on Wednesday, six months later than originally expected.

Chinese and Saudi firms create joint venture to make military drones in the kingdom | 9 March 2022 | DefenseNews

Advanced Communications and Electronics Systems Co. signed an agreement with China Electronics Technology Group Corp., with the two companies announcing their tie-up during the World Defense Show in Riyadh.

France and Indonesia sign MOU for medium and large calibre munitions | 8 March 2022 | Janes

France’s Nexter Munitions and Mecar (both subsidiaries of Nexter Group) and Indonesia’s PT Pindad signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) related to Medium Calibre Munitions and Large Calibre Munitions.

China unveils new PLZ45A4 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer for Saudi Arabia | 7 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Chinese Defense Company NORINCO unveils the PLZ45A4, the latest version of its PLZ45 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer at World Defense Show 2022 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Amidst Ukraine War, Rosoboronexport to Participate in Saudi Arabia’s First Ever Defense Exhibition | 5 March 2022 | DefenseWorld

Russia’s arms exporter Rosoboronexport said it will present selections provided by 20 Russian defense industry enterprises at the debut exhibition World Defense Show 2022 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on March 6-9, the company’s press service told the media on Saturday.

Arms broker linked to Belarus, Germany and Russia supplied arms to junta since coup | 2 March 2022 | Mizzima

A major Myanmar military arms trader, Dynasty International, also known as the Dynasty Group of Companies, has procured equipment for the Myanmar military after its illegal attempted coup, according to the rights group Justice for Myanmar.

U.A.E. to Purchase 12 Chinese L-15 Light Combat-Trainer Aircraft | 23 February 2022 | DefenseWorld

The U.A.E. Ministry of Defense will soon sign a contract with Chinese company CATIC for 12 L-15 Light Combat-Trainer aircraft, with an option to add 36 aircraft of the same model in the future.

EUROPE

Denmark plans to donate its Piranha III wheeled armored vehicles to Ukraine | 30 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Danish media website “OLFI” on April 29, 2022, Denmark plans to donate Piranha III 8×8 wheeled APCs (Armored Personnel Carrier) vehicles to Ukraine.

SNP ministers spend £3.6m of public cash on arms firms | 30 April 2022 | The Herald (Scotland)

Scottish ministers have handed out more than £3.6 million in taxpayers’ cash to multinational arms firms, in a move that has led to questions about their commitment to human rights. 

Denmark approves delivery of M113 tracked armored vehicles and ammunition to Ukraine | 29 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “EURACTIV” website on April 29, 2022, Denmark agrees to the delivery of M113 tracked Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) vehicles, anti-tank mines, and mortar shells to Ukraine.

Poland provides Ukraine with more than 200 T-72 main battle tanks | 29 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “PolskieRadio” website on April 29, 2022, Poland provides Ukraine with more than 200 T-72 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) to equip two armor brigades. The tanks will come from the military inventory of the Polish armed forces.

Pictures from Internet confirm sending of US M777 155mm towed howitzers to Ukraine | 28 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to pictures released on Internet, we can confirm that the United States will supply M777 155mm lightweight towed howitzers to Ukraine. On April 23, 2022, several M777s were loaded into American C-17 Globemaster III military transport aircraft from U.S. Force.

Rheinmetall from Germany requests the delivery of Leopard 1A5 tanks to Ukraine | 28 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the German newspaper “Die Welt” website “on April 25, 2022, the company Rheinmetall from Germany has requested the German Government to deliver 88 Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks to Ukraine.

Germany considers the supply of Wiesel tracked airborne armored vehicles to Ukraine | 28 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

After the announcement by the German company Rheinmetall to supply Leopard 1A5 main battle tank to Ukraine, the newspaper website “Focus.de” has published information that Germany might consider the supply of Wiesel 1 and Wiesel 2 tracked airborne armored vehicles to Ukraine.

Is Switzerland right to prevent the delivery of ammunition to Ukraine? | 26 April 2022 | DW

Switzerland has turned down two requests by Germany to reexport Swiss-made ammunition to Ukraine. The move has triggered a debate about Switzerland’s principle of neutrality.

UK to provide additional military aid to Ukraine | 25 April 2022 | Army-Technology

The assistance will include protected mobility vehicles, drones, and anti-tank weapons.

Czech Republic started delivery of 2S1 122mm self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine | 24 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Czech website “Echo24” on April 22, 2022, the Czech Republic started the delivery of 2S1 122mm tracked self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine.

United Kingdom to provide AS90 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine | 24 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the website “Express” on April 24, 2022, the United Kingdom will send AS90 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzers and 45,000 artillery ammunition to Ukraine. The howitzers will come from artillery units of the British army.

Spain has shipped armored vehicles – trucks – ammunition to Ukraine | 23 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

During a visit to Kyiv on April 21, 2022, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced that Spain has shipped 200 tons of military equipment to Ukraine including 30 military trucks, 20 4×4 armored vehicles, and ammunition.

Belgium to send anti-tank weapons and maybe artillery systems to Ukraine | 23 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by local newspapers on April 22, 2022, Belgium will send new weapons to Ukraine including anti-tank weapons, and thinks about the possibility to provide M109 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzers.

Denmark has delivered AT4CS man-portable anti-tank weapons to Ukraine | 23 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a picture released on the Twitter account of Hans Tino Hansen, Denmark has delivered an undisclosed number of AT4CS man-portable anti-structure tandem rocket weapons to the Ukrainian armed forces.

Hungary purchases Aero L-39 next-gen trainer and light combat aircraft | 23 April 2022 | BulgarianMilitary

Hungarian Government Commissioner Gaspar Marot informed the national media about the purchase from Budapest of L-39NG training aircraft manufactured by the Czech company Aero Vodochody, BulgarianMilitary.com has learned, citing Defence 24.

UK plans to provide Challenger 2 tanks to Poland that could give its T-72 tanks to Ukraine | 22 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by newspapers websites “The Times” and “The Sun”, the British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that the United Kingdom and Poland are in negotiations to acquire British Challenger 2 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) so they can hand in their own Soviet-made T-72 tanks to the Ukrainian army.

Lithuanian army to get more Vilkas IFV Infantry Fighting Vehicles | 22 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

As announced on its website by the Lithuanian MoD, on April 19, Vice Minister of National Defence Vilius Semeška and his delegation met with representatives of the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation (OCCAR), ARTEC consortium, Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Rheinmetall in Munich to discuss further prospects of supplying Lithuania with Boxer Infantry Fighting Vehicles.

France agrees to deliver French-made CAESAR 155mm wheeled howitzers to Ukraine | 22 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the French newspaper website “Le Figaro”, on April 22, 2022, the French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled that France will deliver state-of-the-art CAESAR 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine.

Ukrainian troops being trained by British instructors in UK and Poland | 22 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

As reported by Matthew Loh in Business Insider, dozens of Ukrainian soldiers are being trained in the UK, where they will be taught to use armored vehicles donated by the British government, said UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson: “I can say that we are currently training Ukrainians in Poland in the use of anti-aircraft defence, and actually in the UK in the use of armored vehicles”, Johnson said while on his trip to India, The Guardian reported on April 21.

Romania to donate T-72 main battle tanks and spare parts to Ukraine | 22 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Romanian Ministry of Defense, on April 19, 2022, Romania could donate T-72 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) and spare parts to Ukraine.

Slovenia to provide its fleet of M-84 main battle tanks to Ukraine | 21 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the German News agency DPA, Slovenia will provide M-84 main battle tanks (MBTs) to Ukraine and in exchange Germany could deliver Leopard Main Battle Tank (MBT) or Marder tracked armored IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicles).

Norway provides Mistral MANPADS surface-to-air defense missile systems to Ukraine | 20 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a statement published by the Norwegian Ministry of Defense on April 20, 2022, Norway provides Mistral air defense missile systems to Ukraine. The Mistral is a surface-to-air defense missile weapon system that is being used by the Norwegian Navy.

Netherlands provided PzH 2000 155mm howitzers to Ukraine and Germany training and ammunition | 20 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the International press agency Bloomberg on April 20, 2002, the Netherlands would have sent PzH 2000 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine and Germany will provide Ukraine with ammunition and training for these artillery systems.

UK to supply Stormer Starstreak missile air defense armored vehicles to Ukraine | 19 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “Daily Mail” website on April 19, 2022, the United Kingdom is ready to supply Alvis Stormer Starstreak missile anti-aircraft tracked armored vehicles to Ukraine, to increase its air defense capabilities.

British SAS special forces training Ukrainians to use Saab NLAW anti-tank missiles | 19 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to Catherine Philp in The Times, and Natasha Kumar in TheTimesHub.in, for the first time since the outbreak of a full-scale war with Russia on February 24, British SAS are training Ukrainian soldiers in Kyiv on how to use the British-supplied NLAW anti-tank missile launchers. Officers from two battalions stationed in and around Kyiv said they had received military training by British Special Forces, one last week and the other the week before.

US troops to train Ukrainian soldiers how to operate American 155mm towed howitzer | 19 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Following the press briefing of the Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby published on April 18, 2022, and after the announcement by the United States of the delivery of 155mm towed howitzers to Ukraine, U.S. troops will train Ukrainian soldiers on how to operate this artillery weapon.

Ukraine requests US to acquire MQ-9 Reaper Unmanned Aerial Vehicles | 16 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the press agency Forbes on April 13, 2022, Ukraine has requested the purchase of American-made MQ-9 Reaper UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) manufactured by the California-based company General Atomics.

Poland sends T-72 tanks and BWP-1 tracked armored IFVs to Ukraine | 15 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to pictures published on the “Ukraine Weapons Tracker” Twitter account, April 13, 2022, it is now confirmed that Poland should provide to Ukraine 100 T-72 main battle tanks including T-72M1 and T-72M1R as well as BWP-1, a Polish version of the Soviet-made BMP-1.

Czech Republic has donated DANA 152mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine | 15 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a video released on the Twitter account of “Ukraine Weapons Tracker” on April 13, 2022, the Czech DANA, a 152mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer is now used by the Ukrainian armed forces. The Czech Republic would have delivered an undisclosed number of these artillery vehicles to the Ukrainian army.

Ukrainian soldiers train in US to use Switchblade loitering munition also called suicide drone | 14 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

The United States has confirmed the supply of Switchblade loitering munitions to Ukraine. Washington is also training Ukrainian servicemen to operate the kamikaze drones. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said US specialists had trained a small group of Ukrainian soldiers who arrived at the US back in autumn to operate the drones, adding that they will be able to return home and train other Ukrainian soldiers.

Hensoldt to deliver TRS-4D radars on German Navy F126 frigates | 14 April 2022 | Janes

Hensoldt has signed a contract worth more than EUR100 million (USD109 million) with mission combat system integrator Thales to supply its TRS-4D naval radar on the German Navy F126 future multi-purpose frigates, Hensoldt announced on 13 April.

List and details of new military equipment donated by United States to Ukraine | 14 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a statement published by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) on April 13, 2022, Ukraine will receive new military equipment from the United States including towed howitzers, artillery radars, Switchblade munitions, Javelin anti-tank missiles, tracked APCs (Armored Personnel Carrier), medical equipment, body armor, and helmets.

UK Arms Trade and Risk Assessment: Who Decides? | 12 April 2022 | Australian Institute of International Affairs

In the United Kingdom, one of the major arms-exporting states in the world, the norms regulating the state’s control over the export of arms require the government to assess the presence of a “clear risk” of violations of international law, including international humanitarian law (IHL), by the recipient state. These norms have allowed international civil society to challenge the British government and its procedure to issue arms export licences and assess the risk of international law violations before competent courts, among other fora.

Rheinmetall from Germany is ready to supply 50 Leopard 1 main battle tanks to Ukraine | 12 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the German newspaper website “Handelsblatt” on April 11, 2022, the German company Rheinmetall is ready to supply 50 Leopard 1 main battle tanks to Ukraine.

China delivers FK-3 medium range air defense missiles to Serbia | 12 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

First picture of Serbian army FK-3 Chinese air defense missile system published on Internet | 29 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to Mike Yeo in Defense News, China has delivered anti-aircraft missile systems to Serbia as part of a contract this country signed with China that also included drones. The Chinese used an air bridge with Y-20 heavy-lift aircraft to transport the FK-3 missiles and presumably other equipment, to Serbia on April 9, 2022.

Germany offers Ukraine Marder IFVs + Milan ATGM and 155mm PzH-2000 | 11 April 2022 | BulgarianMilitary.com

German military equipment manufacturer Rheinmetall is offering Ukraine to buy Marder infantry fighting vehicles, BulgarianMilitary.com has learned, citing German sources and the online portal mil.in.ua. According to journalists, the concern plans to build 35 units for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine by the end of 2022.

Slovakia supplies S-300 air defence system to Ukraine | 11 April 2022 | Army-Technology

Slovakia has supplied the S-300 air defence system to Ukraine as several nations commit to increasing military aid to the embattled country.

Rheinmetall to possibly supply Lynx KF41 and Marder 1A3 IFVs to Greek Army | 11 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

In addition to the modernization of the Greek Leopard tanks, Rheinmetall is interested in the future program of new Toma for the Greek army. As DefenseReview.gr reported on August 19, 2021, the German proposal for the supply of Lynx KF41 and used Marder 1A3 IFVs has raised high interest in Greece.

Lithuania to resume training Ukrainian military in operating Western weaponry | 11 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Lithuania plans to organize training for Ukrainian servicemen in the near future to help them prepare for operating Western military equipment. This was reported by Delfi with reference to the commander of the Lithuanian Army, General Valdemaras Rupsis, according to Ukrinform. No further detail is provided regarding the types of weapons that might be concerned.

UK to send more weapons to Ukraine including 800 NLAW anti-tank missiles | 11 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a statement published by the British Ministry of Defense on April 8, 2022, the UK will boost the support of Ukraine with new military equipment and weapons including NLAW and Javelin anti-tank missiles, loitering munitions, and Starstreak surface-to-air missiles.

British Army to receive 100 additional Boxer vehicles | 11 April 2022 | Army-Technology

The UK has expanded the Boxer armoured vehicle programme to provide the British Army with 100 extra vehicles.

Ukraine’s Zelenskiy seeks military aid from South Korea | 11 April 2022 | Reuters

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday asked Seoul for any military aid it could provide as he said Russia could only be forced to make peace.

KMW from Germany offers Ukraine to purchase 100 PzH 2000 155mm howitzers | 10 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “Welt” German newspaper website on April 9, 2022, the German company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) offers to Ukraine to purchase 100 Panzerhaubitze PzH 2000 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzers.

Slovakia offers to sell Zuzana 2 155mm 8×8 howitzers to Ukraine | 9 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “DennikN” website on April 7, 2022, the Government of Slovakia offers to sell Zuzana 2 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine.

Slovakia donates its S-300 air defense missile systems to Ukraine | 8 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

On April 8, the Ministry of Defence officially confirms that the Slovak Republic provided Ukraine with S-300 PMU air defense systems. This comes in reaction to the request of Ukraine for assistance in its exercise of self-defense in line with Article 51 of the UN Charter as a direct consequence of the armed aggression by Russia. The Slovak donation is the first known case of a country sending such a powerful air defense system to Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion on February 24.

Ukrainian officials discuss future armament requirements with UK | 8 April 2022 | Army-Technology

A Ukrainian government delegation held talks with British ministers on future armament requirements, and other forms of military aid, in a bid to step up defences against the ongoing Russian invasion.

Australian Army delivers first Bushmaster armored vehicles to Ukrainian Army | 8 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

The first batch of three Thales Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles was loaded onto a C-17A Globemaster III at RAAF Base Amberley on April 7 for delivery to Ukraine.

Russian Invasion of Ukraine Triggers a Rise in Military Spending in Europe | 7 April 2022 | Indepth News

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is forcing most European countries to increase defence spending, boost military capabilities and secure their territorial borders.

Poland signs $4.75bn deal to procure 250 Abrams tanks | 6 April 2022 | Army-Technology

Poland has signed an agreement to procure 250 Abrams tanks from the US in a bid to strengthen its armed forces, as hostilities rage on in neighbouring Ukraine.

Ukraine Looking Into Private Arms Deals in Israel | 6 April 2022 | Haaretz

The inquiries come from a Ukrainian delegation, which has been in Israel for about a week, although the government is unlikely to approve any such deals after it declined to provide military assistance to Kyiv.

Czeck Republic sends T-72A MBTs tanks and BVP-1 IFVs tracked armored to Ukraine | 6 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Following the request from the U.S., the Czech Republic has sent T-72A main battle tanks and BVP-1 infantry fighting vehicles, Soviet-made BMP-1 produced under license in the Czech Republic, to Ukraine, according to pictures published on the Twitter account of OSINTDefender on April 5, 2022: Czech Television initially reported the shipment, showing footage on Twitter of a train loaded with five tanks and five IFVs. It said the shipment was a gift agreed upon with NATO allies, Reuters report.

US asks Cyprus to transfer T-80U tanks BMP-3 IFVs S-300 and Tor-M1 air defense missiles to Ukraine | 5 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the “Ekathimerini” website on April 4, 2022, the United States has asked Cyprus government if it would be possible to transfer Russian-made weapons and combat vehicles in services with the Cyprus armed forces including TOR-M1 and S-300 air defense missile systems, T-80U main battle tank, BMP-3 tracked armored IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle) and Mi-35 attack helicopter.

Rheinmetall Denel Munition awarded Spanish 40 mm grenade contract | 4 April 2022 | DefenceWeb

Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) has been awarded a contract to supply 40 mm grenade ammunition to the Spanish military.

Belgian army to get new Multicam camouflaged combat uniforms | 4 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

The Belgian army is abandoning its four-five-tone Woodland camouflage used for twenty years, Defence.be reports: it has officially adopted a new multi-colored Multicam combat dress which will enter service from late 2022, the Minister of Defense and the concerned manufacturers announced on April 1 in Brussels.

Germany approves delivery of 58 Pbv 501 ex-East German Army BMP-1 IFVs to Ukraine | 3 April 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Newspaper website “Welt.de” on April 1, 2022, Germany has approved the delivery of 58 Pbv 501 tracked armored IFVs (Infantry Fighting Vehicles to Ukraine. The Pbv 501 is a Swedish upgrade of ex-East German Army BMP-1 IFVs (Infantry Fighting Vehicle) that were delivered to Sweden from 1998 2001 to mechanize the Swedish Army infantry brigades.

Arms exports: A business without an EU policy | 1 April 2022 | Investigate Europe

Arms export is a billion-euro business for EU countries. Member states seem to sell arms with little regard for common rules that are meant to stop the export of weapons that might provoke or prolong conflict. Investigate Europe has crunched the data.

Rheinmetall Denel Munition to supply artillery rounds as part of massive Hungarian ammunition order | 31 March 2022 | DefenceWeb

Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) will manufacture and supply artillery ammunition for the Hungarian military as part of a comprehensive ammunition deal awarded to Germany’s Rheinmetall Group that is worth several hundred million euros.

Dockers against arms: Fighting weapons trade in Europe’s ports | 30 March 2022 | Investigate Europe

Dockers in Italy are protesting against the loading and unloading of ships that transport weapons and ammunition to Saudi Arabia. Their struggle is popular in the public eye. But the workers face mighty political and economical interests — and criminal charges. In Spain, Germany and France, protests are led by social movements and NGOs.

NATO NSPA delivers last refurbished PzH 2000 155mm self-propelled howitzers to Lithuania | 25 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency on March 22, 2022, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has delivered the last refurbished PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers to the Lithuanian Armed Forces this month.

Swiss arms sales down by almost a fifth | 25 March 2022 | SwissInfo

Swiss companies exported CHF742.8 million ($801 million) worth of war materiel to 67 countries in 2021, down 18% on the previous year, the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) said on Friday.

German minister says further Strela missiles are on way to Ukraine | 23 March 2022 | Reuters

Germany delivers Strela-2M MANPADS air defense missile systems and MG3 machine guns to Ukraine | 27 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said on Wednesday that after delays in deliveries, further supplies of Strela missiles, which had been in the inventories of the former Communist East German army, were on the way to Ukraine.

Sweden to provide Ukraine with 5,000 more anti-tank weapons | 23 March 2022 | Reuters

Sweden will provide Ukraine with an additional 5,000 anti-tank weapons, TT news agency quoted the Swedish Defence Minister saying on Wednesday.

The weapons and military aid the world is giving Ukraine | 22 March 2022 | Politico

More than 25 countries have joined in delivering support to Ukraine’s war effort. Here’s what we know.

Slovakia starts receiving Patriot missile defence systems | 21 March 2022 | Army-Technology

Nato-member Slovakia has started receiving components of Patriot missile defence systems from partner countries, reported Reuters.

Three Killed in Explosion at Ammunition Factory in Greece | 21 March 2022 | Greek Reporter

Three people were killed after a powerful explosion on Monday morning destroyed an ammunitions factory near the city of Grevena, northern Greece.

Nurol Makina delivers Gidran 4×4 MRAP vehicles made in Hungary for the Hungarian army | 21 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Turkish company Nurol Makina plant delivered a first batch of locally-made Gidran 4×4 MRAP personnel carriers to the Hungarian army on Sunday, March 20, in a first delivery following the opening of a Turkish production plant in the country, the pro-govt Daily Sabah reported, echoed by Ahval. 300 Gidrans are planned to be delivered to the Hungarian army.

US sent Soviet-made air defense missile systems to Ukraine secretly acquired in the past | 21 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by “The Wall Street Journal” on March 21, 2022, the United States sent Soviet-made air defense missile systems to Ukraine including 9K33 Osa NATO designation SA-8 Gecko that were secretly acquired by the U.S. in the past to study the technology of Russian military equipment.

Belarus probably purchased armored vehicles from Nigerian company Proforce | 21 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to AutoJosh, Belarus might have purchased armored vehicles from Nigerian-based defense company Proforce which has already had orders from the Nigerian Government, the United Nations and some African countries, including Chad.

Elbit Systems to provide 120mm ammunition for Swedish army Stridsvagn 122 MBTs | 21 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Elbit Systems announced on March 21 that it was awarded a contract in the amount of approximately $27 million by the Swedish Defence Material Administration, to provide the Swedish Armed Forces with M339 rounds, 120mm ammunition, and Data Setting Units, for its Stridsvagn 122 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). The contract will be performed over a period of ten months.

US in talks with Slovakia and Bulgaria to provide S-300 air defense missile systems to Ukraine | 20 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by several international press agencies, on March 19, 2022, the United States is in talks with Slovakia and Bulgaria to provide Soviet-made S-300 air defense missile systems which are in service in these two countries to help Ukraine in the fight against the Russian army.

American gunmakers help Ukrainians fight back against Putin | 18 March 2022 | ABC News

Adrian Kellgren’s family-owned gun company in Florida was left holding a $200,000 shipment of semi-automatic rifles after a longtime customer in Ukraine suddenly went silent during Vladimir Putin’s invasion of the country.

Arms and Influence in Ukraine | 17 March 2022 | PRIO Blogs

The supply of weapons and other military equipment has been one of two main responses by Western States to the invasion of Ukraine (the other being economic sanctions).

UK to provide Starstreak man-portable air defense missile systems to Ukraine | 17 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

During the NATO Defence Ministers that was held on March 16, 2022, in Brussels, the British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has announced that the United Kingdom (UK) will continue to supply military equipment and weapons to Ukraine. The British Defence Secretary highlighted that the UK would be providing Starstreak, a high-velocity anti-aircraft missile system, that complements the other military aid provided by the UK Armed Forces, including over 4,000 anti-tank missiles.

Slovakia agrees to provide its S-300 air defense missile systems to Ukraine | 17 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Slovakia will send Ukraine S-300 air defenses ‘immediately’ if NATO backfills its weapons | 17 March 2022 | Washington Post

According to information published by CNN on March 16, 2022, Slovakia has preliminarily agreed to provide Ukraine with Soviet-era air defense missile system S-300 to help defend against Russian airstrikes. Slovakia is one of the three NATO allies that have S-300 in its military inventory.

US to transfer additional $800m worth of military equipment to Ukraine | 17 March 2022 | Army-Technology

Fact Sheet on U.S. Security Assistance for Ukraine | 16 March 2022 | The White House

The military aid will include 800 Stinger anti-aircraft systems, and 100 tactical unmanned aerial systems and munition, among others.

US and NATO allies to send SA-8 SA-10 SA-12 SA-14 air defense missiles to Ukraine | 16 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a Tweet published by Jim Sciutto on March 16, 2022, the United States and NATO allies are sending several surface-to-air missiles systems to Ukraine. Citing, a senior US official, the missiles sent to Ukraine include Soviet-era SA-8, SA-10, SA-12, and SA-14 mobile air defense systems.

US to possibly give Switchblade antitank and antipersonnel kamikaze drones to Ukraine | 16 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

U.S. President Joe Biden considers giving devastating Aerovironment Switchblade loitering munition (‘kamikaze’ drones) to the Ukrainians as part of a new $800Mn arms package he unveiled on March 16 as Zelensky pleaded with the U.S. Congress the same day for more weapons to defend his country against the Russian invaders.

Slovakia preliminarily agrees to send key air defense system to Ukraine | 16 March 2022 | CNN

Slovakia has preliminarily agreed to provide Ukraine with a key Soviet-era air defense system to help defend against Russian airstrikes, according to three sources familiar with the matter, but the US and NATO are still grappling with how to backfill that country’s own defensive capabilities, and the transfer is not yet assured.

US general suggests Greece to send its S-300 air defense missiles to Ukraine | 15 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to Tasos Kokkinidis in Greek Reporter, Keith Kellogg, a U.S. retired general, has advised Ukraine on Monday, March 14, to ask Greece, Bulgaria and Slovakia to offer their Russian-made S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to help defend against the Russian invasion.

La France livrerait des équipements militaires à la Russie depuis 2015 | 15 March 2022 | TF1

La France mise à mal. Si celle-ci se défend de tout manquement, elle aurait livré des équipements militaires à la Russie entre 2015 et 2020, en dépit de l’embargo européen sur les armes ayant suivi l’annexion de la Crimée par la Russie en 2014, selon le média en ligne français Disclose.

Ukraine Needs More Military Aid from NATO—And Fast | 14 March 2022 | Time

As the Russian ground advance in Ukraine begins to gain a bit more momentum and encircle Kyiv, the West must consider its options. Despite the heroic efforts of the Ukrainians, facilitated by a deluge of weapons from NATO countries, “quantity has a quality all its own,” and the Russians continue to throw massive levels of bombing, long range missiles, and troops at the Ukrainian military and civilian population.

Latvia Confirms Interest in Acquiring Turkey’s Bayraktar TB2 Drones | 14 March 2022 | DefenseWorld

Latvian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Artis Pabriks has confirmed the country’s interest in buying Bayraktar TB2 combat drones from Turkey, which have been used on battlefields in Syria, Libya, Azerbaijan, Ethiopia, Iraq; and now in Ukraine.

Putin and Lukashenko agree on supply of modern military equipment to Belarus | 14 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to Interfax, at the talks in Moscow, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, whom the EU and the United States do not consider legally elected, and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to supply modern military equipment to Belarus. This was announced by the press secretary of Lukashenko, quoted by the state agency BelTA.

Russia requests military assistance from China | 11 March 2022 | Army-Technology

Beijing Rejects U.S. Claims of Russia using Chinese Military Aid for Ukraine Op | 14 March 2022 | DefenseWorld

Russia has sought military assistance from China to support its ongoing ‘military operation’ in Ukraine, The Financial Times reported, citing US officials.

US Senate approves funding bill, including $13.6bn in aid for Ukraine | 11 March 2022 | Army-Technology

The US Senate has approved a $1.5tn government funding bill, that includes approximately $13.6bn in aid for Ukraine.

French army received 10,000 HK416F assault rifles this week | 11 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a tweet from Hervé Grandjean, Spokesperson for the French Ministry of the Armed Forces, 10,000 new Heckler & Koch HK416F assault rifles were delivered this week. The French army has now exceeded the milestone of 50% of weapons delivered as part of the Infantry Weapon of the Future program.

Foreign company to Donate 6 AN-158 aircraft to Ukrainian Air Force | 11 March 2022 | DefenseWorld.net

A foreign company has approached Ukraine’s state-owned Ukroboronprom to provide the country’s Air Force with six Antonov AN-158 twin-engine passenger aircraft. The company and country to which it belongs has not been identified.

Russia to Hand Over Western Weapons seized in Ukraine to Donetsk and Lugansk Militias | 11 March 2022 | DefenseWorld.net

Russian President Vladimir Putin has okayed handing over Western-made weapons such as Javelin and Stinger ant-tank missiles seized from the Ukrainian Army to the militias of the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics.

China Joins Western Sanctions on Russia, Refuses to Supply Aircraft Parts | 10 March 2022 | DefenseWorld.net

China has joined western sanctions against Russia by denying to supply parts for its commercial aircraft.

Lithuanian Army receives Javelin anti-tank system from US | 10 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense on March 10, 2022, Lithuania received the Javelin anti-tank system from the US for a total cost of 40 million USD.

United Kingdom plans to send Starstreak man-portable surface-to-air missile to Ukraine | 9 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by “The Guardian” on March 9, 2022, the United Kingdom plans to send Starstreak short-range surface-to-air defense missile system to Ukraine in support of Ukraine following the Russian invasion.

French company Dassault Systemes suspends new business in Russia and Belarus | 9 March 2022 | Reuters

French technology company Dassault Systemes said it had decided to suspend its new business in Russia and Belarus in protest over Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, joining a raft of companies who are suspending business in Russia.

Swiss state-owned small arms producer sold to Italy | 9 March 2022 | SwissInfo

Switzerland’s state-owned Ruag International company has sold its small-caliber ammunition division to the Italian firearm manufacturer, Beretta.

Ukroboronprom’s Zhytomyr Armour Plant destroyed | 8 March 2022 | Janes

Ukroboronprom’s Zhytomyr Armour Plant was destroyed and three people were killed, according to media reports on 6 March. CNN said it had authenticated a geolocated video posted on Telegram showing the levelled plant to support Russian claims of ‘demilitarising’ Ukraine.

Helicopter OEMs Suspend Russian Activities | 7 March 2022 | AIN Online

Western helicopter manufacturers are pausing their business in Russia due to the Ukraine conflict. “In response to the Russian Federation’s further invasion of Ukraine, the Bureau of Industry and Security has issued a final rule, ‘Implementation of Sanctions Against Russia Under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR),’ which implements new Russia license requirements and licensing policies to protect U.S. national security and foreign policy interests,” Robinson Helicopter advised in a notice to dealers and service centers in Russia and Ukraine last week.

Ukraine receives AT4 anti-tank weapons from Sweden | 7 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by Republic World on March 6, 2022, the Swedish AT4 anti-tank weapons have arrived in Ukraine amid the war. Indeed some visuals of Ukrainian soldiers with AT4 anti-tank weapons have been released.

U.S. Provided More Than $1 Billion in Security Assistance to Ukraine in Past Year | 5 March 2022 | DefenseWorld

The U.S. has provided more than $1 billion in security assistance to Ukraine only in the past one year. Contents of the most recent security assistance package approved for Ukraine — valued at $350 million dollars — is currently on its way now and is billed as “the largest presidential drawdown package in history,” a senior defense official said during a briefing today at the Pentagon.

Ukraine requests more military equipment and combat vehicles to Germany | 4 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the German Newspaper website “SPIEGEL” on March 4, 2022, Ukraine has requested more military equipment and combat vehicles to Germany in support of the fight against Russia.

Canada to supply 4,500 M72 LAW anti-tank rocket launchers to Ukraine | 4 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a statement published by the Canadian Ministry of Defense on March 3, 2022, Canada will supply up to 4,500 M72 LAW rocket launchers and up to 7500 hand grenades to Ukraine.

Tutte le armi che l’Italia invia all’Ucraina | 4 March 2022 | Today (IT)

Nel consiglio dei ministri di lunedì 28 febbraio, il governo italiano ha approvato un decreto legge con le “ulteriori misure urgenti per la crisi in Ucraina”, anche per autorizzare l’invio di armi, mezzi ed equipaggiamenti militari all’esercito di Kiev, per aiutare le truppe a difendersi dagli attacchi della Russia. Si tratta di una decisione che segue provvedimenti analoghi deliberati in questi giorni da molti paesi dell’Unione europea, Germania compresa. Di che armi si tratta e come verranno consegnate?

German anti-tank Panzerfaust 3 and Stinger missiles now in Ukrainian hands | 3 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to a tweet from Felix Woessner, the weapon delivery from Germany via The Netherlands has arrived in Ukraine. 1000 anti-tank ‘Panzerfaust 3’ and 500 FIM-92 Stinger air defense missiles are now in Ukrainian hands.

Canada to send body armor, anti-tank weapons, night vision goggles and more to Ukraine | 3 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

Canada announced on February 28 that it will send anti-tank weapons, ammunition and money to Ukraine as it continued to condemn Russian aggression against the beleaguered country: “We announced that we would be sending new shipments of military supplies, including body armor, helmets, gas masks and night vision goggles,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said at a press conference carried live by Canadian news websites. “Today we are announcing that we will be supplying Ukraine with anti-tank weapons systems and upgraded ammunition.”

Ukraine continues to receive military aid | 3 March 2022 | Army-Technology

Several nations and NATO members have pledged to provide both lethal and logistical military assistance to the Ukrainian government. Here is a brief assessment of the numerous foreign military support packages the Ukrainian Military received.

Germany approves the delivery of ex-DDR SA-7 Grail Strela-2 air defense missile weapons to Ukraine | 3 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information published by the German Government on March 3, 2022, Germany has approved the delivery to Ukraine of 2,700 SA-7 Grail 9K32 Strela-2 portable air defense missile systems (MANPADS) dating back from the armed forces of former East Germany.

Latvia allocates 1.2 million euros for Ukrainian army | 2 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

As reported by LSM public broadcasting of Latvia, the Latvian government on March 1 approved allocating EUR 1.2 million from the state budget’s contingency funds to support the Ukrainian armed forces. The Foreign Ministry says that, in reaction to the unprovoked Russian invasion of Ukraine, an extraordinary informal meeting of the European Union’s Foreign Affairs Council was convened on February 27 to reach a political agreement on giving EUR 500 million to the Ukrainian military from the European Peace Facility.

Swedish army orders more Grkpbv 90 armored mortar carriers from Hägglund Bofors | 2 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

The Swedish Armed Forces Materiel Administration has placed an order at Hägglund Bofors Utveckling for twenty additional Granatkastaranscarband 90 (Grkpbv 90) armored mobile mortars. The order value is approximately SEK 500 million and delivery to the Armed Forces is planned for 2023 to 2025.

Fresh Supply of Bayraktar TB2 Drones Arrives in Ukraine | 2 March 2022 | DefenseWorld

The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine announced that new Bayraktar TB2 combat drones have arrived from Turkey and are being deployed in the field. The delivery comes amidst the Russian invasion into Ukrainian borders. These new drones add onto the 12 Bayraktar TB2s in Ukraine’s inventory being used in the air and naval forces.

Spanish company Instalaza to supply 6,000 C-90 anti-tank rocket launchers to Estonia | 2 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to Infodefensa, the Spanish company Instalaza has signed a contract with the Estonian Center for Defense Investment (ECDI) to supply the Armed Forces of this Baltic country with a batch of 5,942 C-90-CR-RB anti-tank rocket launchers. This contract, together with previous orders for the C90 – the dual-purpose version CR-AM (M3.5) -, is part of an ongoing framework agreement.

Australia commits $51m to fund lethal defensive weapons for Ukraine | 2 March 2022 | Army-Technology

The Government of Australia has committed approximately $51m (A$70m) in lethal military assistance for Ukraine.

Finland plans to deliver arms and anti-tank weapons to Ukraine | 1 March 2022 | Army-Technology

Finland has announced that it will send arms, rifles and anti-tank weapons to Ukraine to help the country resist the Russian invasion.

Norway to donate 2,000 M72 LAW man-portable anti-tank rocket weapons to Ukraine | 1 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to information released by the Norwegian Ministry of Defense on February 28, 2022, Norway will give 2,000 M72 LAW man-portable anti-tank weapons to Ukraine as part of international aid to fight the Russian invasion of Ukrainian territory.

Luxembourg to send 4×4 vehicles and NLAW anti-tank weapons to Ukraine | 1 March 2022 | ArmyRecognition

According to Luxembourg Times echoed by Ukrinform on February 28, Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg will send anti-tank weapons, vehicles and other supplies to Ukraine.