Main headlines from this issue

Bahrain launches formal offset policy, copies UAE

Bahrain has established formal offset guidelines for the first time. The guidelines are almost entirely a replica of the policy published by the UAE. Large parts of the document are copy-pasted, with the words “Bahrain” and “BDF” (Bahrain Defence Force) replacing “UAE” and “Tawazun.” The quotas, multipliers, penalties, project categories and performance periods are identical. Bahrain has set a lower threshold...

Pakistan is preparing another offset policy – but will anyone take any notice?

Pakistan’s Ministry of Defence Production is formulating a defence offset policy. According to the ministry’s biennial performance report, a draft of the policy is already in circulation to “all concerned” for input before approval. The meaning of “all concerned” is not clear. A new policy for defence production is also under way.

Poland: PGZ President explains hard stance on offset negotiations with U.S. primes

The President of Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ), Andrzej Kensbok, has rejected accusations that his company is trying “to change the rules of the game” in its negotiations for offsets with U.S. primes. He only wants “detailed arrangements,” he said.

Lockheed’s Polish subsidiary offers IP to Romania’s Romaero

Lockheed Martin’s Polish subsidiary, PZL Mielec, will establish an MRO facility for civil and military Black Hawk helicopters in Romania. PZL Mielec will provide highly skilled jobs, technology-based educational programs, research and development opportunities, and benefits to wider Romanian industry, the company said.

Malaysia: Appointment of new TDA chief still ongoing

Malaysia’s Technology Depository Agency (TDA) expects to complete the process of acquiring a new CEO by October. The search began in June, a senior official told CTO, but was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.