A study commissioned by the European Parliament into the implementation of the Defence Procurement Directive 2009/81/EC has found that EU member states continue to use offsets in the European Union despite their prohibition. The study suggests that the European Commission is backing away from further prosecution in its dispute with the Netherlands and Denmark, and calls for greater enforcement.
An audit by the Australian National Audit Office (NAO) of the SEA 1180 Phase 1 Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) program has found that the Australian Industry Capability (AIC) program achieved industry content targets. There is evidence that the OPV program is contributing to the wider naval shipbuilding enterprise, with the effective transfer of shipbuilding expertise.
Representatives of the Industrial Participation Association of Canada (IPAC) responded well to arcane questions on Canada’s highly structured industrial participation regulations. They also evaded candid replies to questions whose answers might have upset Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED).
The South African Department of Trade, Industry and Competition has accused white-owned South African companies of “fronting and misrepresentation” in their use of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) status. Obligors are said to have used non-compliant entities aided by consultants or advisors.
Foreign contractors are forming partnerships with U.S.-based companies in preparation for bids for the U.S. Army’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV) competition. Rheinmetall has partnered with Textron Systems, and BAE Systems has teamed up with Elbit Systems of America....