Main headlines from this issue

EC threatens action plan to end all offsets

The European Commission has issued a communication that will bring further consternation to member states who wish to challenge the restriction on offsets under the defence directive. In an unambiguous statement of intent the Commission says that it will ensure the rapid phasing out of offsets.....

South Africa’s Seriti Commission produces witness list

The Seriti Commission has decided to call former president Thabo Mbeki and members of his cabinet to testify in the country’s arms deal inquiry. A list has been released with only the names of those to be called in the first phase of the inquiry, which began on August 5th. … President Zuma has accepted the resignation of judge Francis Legodi.

Indian IT firms face $10bn in lost business from MOD’S ‘service’ ban

A memorandum published by India’s MoD in June warning that services such as software development would no longer qualify for offset credits was confirmed last month. The ban is now in force. Only ‘products’ may be offered under the offset clause.

Italy downplays F-35 spat – assembly has begun

Italian firms have won about $1bn of orders under the F-35 programme, equivalent to about 76 percent of Italy’s estimated investment in the programme. Fuselage components and wing parts have already been loaded and prepared for alignment.

Patria grants Poland ten year export license

Poland has agreed terms with Patria that will permit the WZM Military Mechanical Plant in Siemianowice licensed production of Rosomak AMV armoured vehicles and to promote their sale to global export markets.