usman_1112
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Cluster munitions Economy of force weapon or Nightmare for humanity.
"These weapons are monstrous, and they cannot be controlled, A total ban is the only way to go. No exceptions, no excuses." "If US allies should not use these weapons, then why should US troop?"
UN Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW). The CCW as slow moving, ponderous, and lacking life.
The use of cluster munitions is currently not prohibited under international law or governed by international treaty. There are however, two major ongoing international initiatives to regulate cluster munitions. Cluster munitionsalso commonly referred to as cluster bombs or cluster weapons. Cluster munitions are delivered by artillery or aircraft.
In an effort to restrict or ban specific types of weapons used in armed conflicts, 51 states negotiated the CCW in 1980. When the treaty entered into force in December 1983, it applied only to incendiary weapons, mines and booby-traps, and weapons intended to cause casualties through very small fragments. Since then, some states parties have added provisions through additional protocols to address other types of weapons. Negotiations on cluster munitions are carried out under Protocol V on Explosive Remnants of War. The United States was originally against any CCW negotiations on cluster munitions, but dropped its opposition in June 2007.
On 23 February 2007, 46 states agreed in Oslo, Norway to conclude in 2008 a treaty prohibiting cluster munitions that cause unacceptable harm to civilians; 68 states participated in a treaty preparation meeting in Lima, Peru in May 2007; 138 states participated in another treaty preparation meeting in Vienna, Austria in December 2007; and 103 participated in Wellington, New Zealand in February 2008.
On May 28, 111 governments including all the Nordic countries adopted a new convention banning cluster munitions. This breakthrough took place at the end of two weeks of negotiations at the Diplomatic Conference on Cluster Munitions in Dublin, Ireland. The conference was the final event of a process initiated in late 2006 by the Norwegian Government, the Oslo Process on Cluster Munitions. Notably absent from the list of signatories was the US the largest cluster bomb manufacturer in the worldas well as military heavyweights Israel, Russia, China, India and Pakistan
Under article 1 of the recently adopted Convention on Cluster Munitions, state parties will undertake(s) never under any circumstances to: (a) use cluster munitions; (b) develop, produce, otherwise acquire, stockpile, retain or transfer to anyone, directly or indirectly, cluster munitions; (c) assist, encourage or induce anyone to engage in any activity prohibited to a state party under this convention.14 out of the 26 countries affected by cluster bombs. 38 out of the 78 countries that stockpile cluster bombs .17 out of the 34 countries that have produced cluster bombs 7 out of the 14 countries that have used cluster bombs.111 Countries who sign on Cluster Munitions banning treaty. 35 countries in Africa, 19 countries in the Americas, 19 countries in Asia and the Pacific, 5 countries in the Middle East and North Africa
According to a 2006 UN Disarmament Forum publication, 33 countries are known to have made over 200 different types of cluster munitions since World War II., 2008 globally, thirty-four countries are known to have produced over 210 different types of cluster munitions. At least 77 countries have stockpiles of more than 210 different types of cluster bombs have been used in at least 31 countries and disputed territories. According to available information, at least 13 countries have transferred over 50 types of cluster munitions to at least 60 other countries. Unexploded cluster sub-munitions pose a grave danger to civilian populations in more than 20 countries. Billions of submunitions are now stockpiled, ready to be used by some 77 countries.
These include artillery projectiles, aerially delivered bombs, and rockets or missiles that can be delivered by surface or aerial means. The countries that produce cluster munitions are: Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Netherlands, Pakistan, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia & Montenegro, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States.
At least 12 countries have exported them to 58 other countries. Based on available information, the US is the leading exporter, having shipped cluster munitions to 24 countries, including to Greece, Israel, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand. The UK appears to be the second largest producer/exporter. Other manufacturing countries that are known to have exported cluster munitions include Brazil, Chile, Egypt, France, Germany, Israel, Russia, South Africa, Pakistan and Sweden. The US government has a stockpile of up to 1 billion cluster sub-munitions.
The eighty-five companies have produced cluster munitions or their key components. Of these companies, fifty-nine are actively producing or marketing cluster munitions or submunitions. Nearly half of these active companies are based in Europe and another eight are located in the United States. Major well-known arms producing companies are among the producers of cluster munitions: BAE Systems, DaimlerChrysler Aerospace, European Aeronautic Defence and Space (EADS), Israel Military Industries, General Dynamics, Giat Industries, Lockheed Martin, Saab Bofors, and Thomson Dasa Armements. However, production is not limited to Europe and North America. For example, companies in Brazil, Chile, China, Egypt, Singapore, India, Pakistan and South Africa also currently manufacture and market cluster
Cluster munitions are air-dropped or ground-launched munitions that release a number of smaller sub munitions intended to kill enemy personnel or destroy vehicles. Cluster munitions were developed in World War II and are part of many nations weapons stockpiles
Cluster bombs were first used in World War II, and inclusive of their debut, cluster munitions have been used in at least 21 states by at least 33 different countries. Cluster bombs were first used in World War II by German and Soviet forces. During the 1970s, the USA used massive numbers of cluster bombs in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. More recently, cluster bombs were used extensively in the Gulf War, Chechnya, the former Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, in Lebanon in 2006 ,Georgia and Palestine in 2008 by Russia and Israel..
AFFECTED COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES Afghanistan, Albania, Angola, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cambodia, Chad, Chechnya, Croatia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Falklands/Malvinas, Georgia, Grenada, Iraq, Israel, Kosovo, Kuwait, Lao PDR, Lebanon, Montenegro, Nagorno-Karabakh, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Uganda, Vietnam, Western Sahara.
Cluster Munitions Stockpile in the Americas and Caribbean
In the Americas and Caribbean, Brazil and the United States (US) are producers of cluster munitions. Argentina and Chile have renounced future production. Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Peru, and the US stockpile cluster munitions. Argentina, Canada, and Honduras have destroyed their stockpiles or are in the process of destroying their stockpiles. Brazil, Chile, and the US have exported cluster munitions. At least five countries in the Americas and Caribbean are known to currently stockpile cluster
http://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/related_material/CMC Fact Sheet
(1)USA.The US is the worlds leading known user, producer, stockpiler, and exporter of cluster munitions.
(1)At least 26 million sub munitions were delivered in Cambodia by some 80,000 cluster munitions between 1969 and 1973; (2)At least 260 million submunitions were delivered in Laos by over 414,000 cluster bombs between 1965 and 1973; (3) Nearly 97 million submunitions were dropped in Vietnam by over 296,000 cluster munitions between 1965 and 1975.(4)Between October 2001 and early 2002, US aircraft dropped 1,228 cluster bombs containing 248,056 bomblets at locations throughout the country
(5) In Iraq, a minimum of 50 million sub-munitions have been used in U.S.-led operations between 1991 and 2006. About 3,000 casualties have been identified because of these weapons.(6) In 1982. In the other instance, US Navy aircraft dropped 21 Mk.-20 Rockeye bombs in close air support operations during the invasion of Grenada in November 1983.(7) Lebanon (1983),(8) Persian Gulf (Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia) in 1991, (9) in 1991, former Yugoslavia (Serbia, Montenegro, and Kosovo)
Eight companies in the United States that manufacture cluster munitions. These companies include: Aerojet (Sacramento, California), Alliant TechSystems (Edina, Minnesota), General Dynamics (Falls Church, Virginia), L-3 Communications (Providence, Rhode Island), Lockheed Martin (Bethesda, Maryland and London, UK), Northrup Grumman (Los Angeles, California), Raytheon (Waltham, Massachusetts), and Textron Defense Systems (Austin, Texas).
(2)Brazil Four companies produce cluster munitions in Brazil. Avribras Aeroespacial SA and Britainite Industrias Quimicas produce the ASTROS family of surface-to-surface rockets with submunition warheads. These weapons have been exported to Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. The ASTROS multiple launch rocket system was used by Saudi forces against Iraqi forces during the battle of Khafji in January 1991, leaving behind significant numbers of unexploded submunitions. The company Ares Aeroespacial e Defesa Ltda produces the FZ-100 70mm air-to-surface rockets, akin to the Hydra M261 multipurpose submunitions. Additionally, Target Engenharia et Comércio Ltda. produces two types of cluster bombs (BLG-120, BLG-252) for the Brazilian Air Force and reportedly for export.
(3)Chile. Chile has renounced future production as a matter of declaratory policy. Industrias Cardeon SA and Los Conquistadores 1700 produced at least eight types of air-dropped cluster bombs.7 PM-1 combined effects submunitions delivered by aircraft bombs produced in Chile have been used in Eritrea, Ethiopia, Iraq, and Sudan.
(4)Argentina In Argentina, the Centro de Investigaciones Técnicas y Científicas de las Fuerzas Armadas (CITEFA) developed a prototype 155mm artillery projectile which contained 63 Dual Purpose Improved Conventional Munition (DPICM) grenades equipped with a backup pyrotechnic self-destruct mechanism.
The Belgium Parliament has become the first in the world to approve a law forbidding investments in cluster munitions . A report by Netwerk Vlaanderen reveals that 68 international bank groups have invested a combined total of more than 13 billion in cluster munition producers.
Netwerk Vlaanderen - Home
There appears to be significant discrepancies among failure rate estimates. Some manufacturers claim a submunition failure rate of 2% to 5%, whereas mine clearance specialists have frequently reported failure rates of 10% to 30%.
Cluster Munitions producing Countries in Asia pacific region.
A total of seven countries in the Asia-Pacific region are known to produce cluster munitions. Aside from Europe, this is the largest regional concentration of producing countries. Most production is carried out by state-owned companies or entities
China, India, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Pakistan, and Singapore have produced cluster munitions. China, India, Indonesia, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Mongolia, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand stockpile cluster munitions. China and South Korea are known to have exported cluster munitions. Companies in India, Pakistan, and Singapore publicly advertise cluster munitions for sale.
(1)China Northern Industries Company (NORINCO) produces a full range of air-dropped and surface-launched cluster munitions. Export activity is not known, but Hezbollah fired over 100 Chinese Type-81 122mm rockets into northern Israel in July/August 2006. Type 83 projectile 2 Type 59 projectile, Type 62 projectile, Type 66 projectile, Type 2 bomb
(2) India .The India Ordnance Factories produce and advertise for export 130mm and 155mm artillery projectiles containing dual-purpose improved conventional munition (DPICM) submunitions, which are equipped with a self-destruct feature. These projectiles are the result of a transfer of production technology from Israel Military Industries and are produced at Khamaria Ordnance Factory near Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, the Defense Research and Development Organization of the Ministry of Defence has developed a cargo rocket for submunitions for the 214mm Picacha multi-barrel rocket system. The US announced in September 2008 that it is intending to transfer 510 CBU-105 air-dropped Sensor Fuzed Weapons to India in an arms deal valued at as much as $375 million.
(3)Japan In 2001, the US provided assistance and technical data to support Japans production of CBU-87 Combined Effects Munitions.
(4)South Korea .Two companies in South Korea, Poongsan and Hanwha, produce cluster munitions. South Korea stopped production of old types of cluster munitions, according to its Ministry of Defense, and cluster munitions currently in production have a high level of reliability and most are equipped with [self-destruct] mechanisms. Poongsan transferred DPICM production technology to Pakistan in November 2004. The US also concluded a licensing agreement with South Korea in 2001 for production of DPICM submunitions for Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) rockets.
(5) Pakistan .Pakistan Ordnance Factories produces and offers for export M483A1 155mm artillery projectiles containing 88 M42/M46 DPICM grenades. The South Korean company Poongsan entered into a licensed production agreement with Pakistan Ordnance Factories in November 2004 to co-produce K-310 155mm extended-range DPICM projectiles in Pakistan at Wah Cantonment.12 The Army took delivery of the first production lots in April 2008.
Jane‟s Information Group credits the Pakistan Air Weapons Center with the production of the Programmable Submunitions Dispenser (PSD-1), which is reported to be similar to the Rockeye cluster bomb and dispenses 225 anti-armor bomblets. It states that the Pakistan National Development Complex produces and markets the Hijara Top-Attack Submunitions Dispenser (TSD-1) cluster bomb. Sri Lanka has purchased cluster bombs,from Pakistan cluster munitions and other explosive remnants of war pose a threat to the daily lives of numerous families.
(6)Singapore. The company Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd (ST Kinetics) produces two types of 155mm DPICM artillery projectiles (containing 63 or 49 grenades) equipped with electro-mechanical self-destruct fuzes with an advertised dud rate of 3 percent.16 The company also produces a 120mm mortar bomb which delivers 25 DPICM grenades.
Middle East-North Africa region Stockpiling of Cluster Munitions by States
In the Middle East-North Africa region, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, and Israel have produced cluster munitions. Egypt and Israel have exported cluster munitions. At least fifteen states in the region have stockpiles of the weapon. Cluster munitions have been used in Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and the Western Sahara. A total of four states from the Middle East-North Africa region-Bahrain, Lebanon, Morocco, and Qatar- agreed to adopt the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) in Dublin on May 30, 2008
(1)Israel . Israel is a major producer and exporter of cluster munitions, primarily artillery projectiles and rockets containing the M85 DPICM submunition equipped with a back-up pyrotechnic self-destruct fuze. Israel Military Industries (IMI) produces, license-produces, and exports cluster munitions including artillery projectiles (105mm, 122mm, 130mm, 152mm, 155mm, 175mm, 203mm), mortar bombs (120mm), and rockets (EXTRA, GRADLAR, LAR-160).
IMI has reportedly produced over 60 million M85 DPICM submunitions. IMI concluded licensing agreements in 2004 with companies in India (Indian Ordnance Factories) and the United States (Alliant Techsystems) to produce DPICMs. Companies in Argentina (CITEFA), Germany (Rheinmetall), Romania (Romtechnica), and Switzerland (RAUG) have also assembled or produced these submunitions under license.
Israel transferred four GRADLAR 122mm/160mm rocket launchers to Georgia in 2007. Georgia has acknowledged using the launchers with 160mm Mk.-4 rockets, each containing 104 M85 DPICM submunitions, during its August 2008 conflict with Russia.7 Israel has also produced several types of air-dropped cluster munitions. The Rafael Corporation is credited with producing the ATAP-300, ATAP-500, ATAP-1000 RAM, TAL-1, and TAL-2 cluster bombs, as well as the BARAD Helicopter Submunition Dispenser.8 Israel has imported a variety of cluster munitions from the US, including M26 rockets for its MLRS launchers.
Cluster bombs were the focus of international attention again during the war in Lebanon last year. In the last 72 hours of that conflict, the Israeli defence forces used about four million cluster sub-munitions
(2) Egypt. The Helipolis Company for Chemical Industries in Egypt produces projectiles for 122mm,130mm, and 152mm caliber artillery pieces which contain M42D DPICM submunitions. The SAKR Factory for Developed Industries produced 122mm surface-launched rockets containing 72 submunitions, some of which were exported to Iraq. Egypt is also a significant recipient of exports of cluster munitions, primarily from the United States, which include artillery projectiles, aircraft bombs, and surface-fired multiple launch rockets.
(3) Iran. Media reports indicate that in November 2006 Iran tested a version of the Shahab-2 missile capable of delivering 1,400 bomblets. KMG U- Dispenser ,Prosab-250 bombs,BL-755 Bombs.
(4)Iraq. Prior to 2003, Iraq produced and imported cluster munitions. This included joint development with Yugoslavia of the M87 Orkan (known in Iraq as Ababil) surface-to-surface rocket with submunitions.3 Iraq also produced two types of cluster bombs called the NAAMAN-250 and NAAMAN-500. It acquired ASTROS ground rockets from Brazil.
Seven countries have received cluster munitions of Soviet or Russian manufacture: Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Kuwait, Libya, Syria, and Yemen. The US is a major supplier of cluster munitions to MENA countries. It has exported the weapon to eight countries, including Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Other countries that have transferred cluster munitions to countries in the MENA region include Brazil, Chile, South Africa, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. In a recent transfer in 2006-2007, Turkey sold the UAE 3,020 TRK-122 rockets, each containing 56 M85 DPICM submunitions.
Stockpiling of Cluster Munitions by States in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia .
At least 20 states in the area are known to stockpile cluster munitions. This number has grown as more states have become engaged in the Oslo Process and new information has become available. Montenegro pledged to destroy its stockpile during the Belgrade Conference of Countries Affected by Cluster Munitions in October 2007.
Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, and Slovakia are among the 34 countries known to have produced cluster munitions. Bulgaria, previously identified as a producer, claims to have never produced any type of cluster munition. Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Russia and Slovakia are among the at least 77 countries that have stockpiled cluster munitions.
(1)Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan Submunition contamination has been identified in at least 162 locations in Nagorno-Karabakh. Submunition types cleared by deminers include PTAB-1, ShOAB-0.5, and AO-2.5. There are also reports of contamination in other parts of occupied Azerbaijan, adjacent to Nagorno-Karabakh.
(2) Bosnia & Herzegovina Forces of Yugoslavia and Non-State Armed Groups (NSAG) used cluster munitions during the 1992-1995 conflict. NATO aircraft dropped two CBU-87 bombs.
(3) Tajikistan 1992-1997 civil war.
(4) Chechnya Russian forces used cluster munitions against NSAG in 1994-1996.
(5) Croatia An NSAG used Orkan M-87 multiple rocket launchers to attack Zagreb on 2-3 May 1995. Additionally, the Croatian government claimed that Serb forces used BL-755 bombs in Sisak, Kutina, and along the Kupa River.
(6) Albania Yugoslav forces used rocket-delivered cluster munitions in disputed border areas in 1998-1999, and NATO forces carried out six aerial cluster munition strikes.
(7) Yugoslavia (including Serbia, Montenegro, and Kosovo)
(1)Russia, and historically the USSR, is a major producer and exporter of cluster munitions. It is thought to have a massive stockpile of cluster munitions containing hundreds of millions of submunitions. Cluster munitions of Russian/Soviet origin are reported to be in the stockpiles of at least 29 other countries. The following Russian companies are associated with the production of cluster munitions: Bazalt State Research and Production Enterprise (air-dropped bombs), Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (120mm, 152mm, 203mm artillery projectiles), and Splav State Research and Production Enterprise (122mm, 220mm, 300mm rockets).
Russia Cluster munitions were used by the Soviets in Afghanistan, Soviet forces used air-dropped and rocket-delivered cluster munitions during their invasion and occupation of Afghanistan from 1979 to 1989. A non-state armed group (NSAG) used rocket-delivered cluster munitions on a smaller scale during the subsequent civil war in the 1990s. Chechnya Russian forces used cluster munitions against NSAG in 1994-1996.
Georgia Russian aircraft dropped cluster bombs containing PTAB-2.5M submunitions during attacks on the village of Ruisi and the town of Gori on 12 August 2008. Georgia used GRADLAR 160 multiple launch rocket system with MK4 rockets with M85 submunitions to attack Russian forces at the Roki tunnel. Other types of submunitions identified in Georgia include the air-dropped AO-2.5RTM and a rocket delivered type.
(2)Bosnia & Herzegovina .State owned factories in Bosnia & Herzegovina inherited the capacity to produce cluster munitions during the breakup of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, including the capacity to produce KB-series submunitions and integrate them into carrier munitions like artillery projectiles and rockets. While it has agreed to adopt the CCM and has a unilateral moratorium on the use of cluster munitions in place, the current disposition of existing production capacity and components in Bosnia & Herzegovina is unclear.
(3)Bulgaria. the Vazov Engineering Plants in Bulgaria were associated with the production of 122mm rockets, which includes a variant that contains submunitions (with 15 DPICM grenades) There are limited amounts of cluster munitions of the type RBK-250 and RBK-500 which are currently held by the Bulgarian Armed Forces. On 13 February 2008, the Bulgarian Council of Ministers adopted a decision imposing a moratorium on the use of cluster munitions currently held by the Bulgarian Armed Forces.
(4) Moldova .In 2003, Moldova reported that it possessed 11 220mm Uragan multiple launch rocket systems. It reported the transfer of 860 missiles for this launch system with a submunition warhead (each containing 30 high-explosive submunitions) to Guinea in 2000. It also exported 13 Uragan launch systems to Yemen in 1994.
(5)Polands land forces are equipped with domestically produced 122mm artillery rockets for BM-21 and RM-70/85 multiple launch rocket systems. Each rocket contains 42 GKO DPICM submunitions. Land forces also possess 98mm mortar bombs, each containing 12 GKO DPICM submunitions. The GKO DPICM submunition is equipped with a backup self-destruct fuze.9 The Polish company Tlocznia Metali Pressta Spolka Akcynjna manufactures 122mm rockets. Additionally, the company Dezamet produced the ZK-300 Kisajno cluster bomb containing 315 LBOk-1 fragmentation bomblets.
(6) Romania.In Romania, the company Romarm produces two types of 152mm DPICM artillery projectiles called the CG-540 and CG-540 ER, which contain GAA-001 bomblets. This is reported to be a joint production and marketing venture with Israel Military Industries. The GAA-001 bomblet is described as identical to the Israeli M85 and is produced by the Romanian company Aerotech SA.Another company, Aerostar SA, produces the LAR-160 multiple launch rocket system, which uses the MK4 rocket that contains 104 M85 submunitions. The company ROMAIR is reported to have developed and produced the CL-250 cluster bomb, which is described as similar in appearance to the RBK-250. It is reported to carry BAAT-10 antitank bomblets and BF-10T antipersonnel bomblets.
(7)Serbia also inherited the production and marketing capabilities of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The company Yugoimport SDPR is associated with the production of 122mm and 155mm DPICM artillery projectiles and Orkan surface-to-surface rockets. The types of submunitions carried in these cluster munitions are the KB-1 and KB-2 DPICM. Yugoslavia was the first non-Western country to produce and export DPICM.According to the Janes Information Group,
At the 1991 Paris Air Show it became known that the Yugoslav Air Force was in possession of several bomblets of various types and at least one cluster bomb and cluster bomb unit. Some bombs were thought to have been bought direct from the USSR, and it is believed that others were manufactured under license or even designed by the Federal Directorate of Supply and Procurement (SDPR) in Belgrade, now Serbia. The designations of the cluster bombs are RAB-120 and KPT-150.
(8) Slovakia.The company Konstrukta Defense in Slovakia produces 152mm artillery projectiles and 122mm surface-to-surface rockets with DPICM submunition payloads.
Part 2nd will be published Types of Cluster Munitions in Global Stockpiles Africa and Europe cluster munitions production and stockpile.
Usman karim Based in Lahore Pakistan, lmno25@hotmail.com
"These weapons are monstrous, and they cannot be controlled, A total ban is the only way to go. No exceptions, no excuses." "If US allies should not use these weapons, then why should US troop?"
UN Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW). The CCW as slow moving, ponderous, and lacking life.
The use of cluster munitions is currently not prohibited under international law or governed by international treaty. There are however, two major ongoing international initiatives to regulate cluster munitions. Cluster munitionsalso commonly referred to as cluster bombs or cluster weapons. Cluster munitions are delivered by artillery or aircraft.
In an effort to restrict or ban specific types of weapons used in armed conflicts, 51 states negotiated the CCW in 1980. When the treaty entered into force in December 1983, it applied only to incendiary weapons, mines and booby-traps, and weapons intended to cause casualties through very small fragments. Since then, some states parties have added provisions through additional protocols to address other types of weapons. Negotiations on cluster munitions are carried out under Protocol V on Explosive Remnants of War. The United States was originally against any CCW negotiations on cluster munitions, but dropped its opposition in June 2007.
On 23 February 2007, 46 states agreed in Oslo, Norway to conclude in 2008 a treaty prohibiting cluster munitions that cause unacceptable harm to civilians; 68 states participated in a treaty preparation meeting in Lima, Peru in May 2007; 138 states participated in another treaty preparation meeting in Vienna, Austria in December 2007; and 103 participated in Wellington, New Zealand in February 2008.
On May 28, 111 governments including all the Nordic countries adopted a new convention banning cluster munitions. This breakthrough took place at the end of two weeks of negotiations at the Diplomatic Conference on Cluster Munitions in Dublin, Ireland. The conference was the final event of a process initiated in late 2006 by the Norwegian Government, the Oslo Process on Cluster Munitions. Notably absent from the list of signatories was the US the largest cluster bomb manufacturer in the worldas well as military heavyweights Israel, Russia, China, India and Pakistan
Under article 1 of the recently adopted Convention on Cluster Munitions, state parties will undertake(s) never under any circumstances to: (a) use cluster munitions; (b) develop, produce, otherwise acquire, stockpile, retain or transfer to anyone, directly or indirectly, cluster munitions; (c) assist, encourage or induce anyone to engage in any activity prohibited to a state party under this convention.14 out of the 26 countries affected by cluster bombs. 38 out of the 78 countries that stockpile cluster bombs .17 out of the 34 countries that have produced cluster bombs 7 out of the 14 countries that have used cluster bombs.111 Countries who sign on Cluster Munitions banning treaty. 35 countries in Africa, 19 countries in the Americas, 19 countries in Asia and the Pacific, 5 countries in the Middle East and North Africa
According to a 2006 UN Disarmament Forum publication, 33 countries are known to have made over 200 different types of cluster munitions since World War II., 2008 globally, thirty-four countries are known to have produced over 210 different types of cluster munitions. At least 77 countries have stockpiles of more than 210 different types of cluster bombs have been used in at least 31 countries and disputed territories. According to available information, at least 13 countries have transferred over 50 types of cluster munitions to at least 60 other countries. Unexploded cluster sub-munitions pose a grave danger to civilian populations in more than 20 countries. Billions of submunitions are now stockpiled, ready to be used by some 77 countries.
These include artillery projectiles, aerially delivered bombs, and rockets or missiles that can be delivered by surface or aerial means. The countries that produce cluster munitions are: Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Netherlands, Pakistan, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia & Montenegro, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States.
At least 12 countries have exported them to 58 other countries. Based on available information, the US is the leading exporter, having shipped cluster munitions to 24 countries, including to Greece, Israel, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand. The UK appears to be the second largest producer/exporter. Other manufacturing countries that are known to have exported cluster munitions include Brazil, Chile, Egypt, France, Germany, Israel, Russia, South Africa, Pakistan and Sweden. The US government has a stockpile of up to 1 billion cluster sub-munitions.
The eighty-five companies have produced cluster munitions or their key components. Of these companies, fifty-nine are actively producing or marketing cluster munitions or submunitions. Nearly half of these active companies are based in Europe and another eight are located in the United States. Major well-known arms producing companies are among the producers of cluster munitions: BAE Systems, DaimlerChrysler Aerospace, European Aeronautic Defence and Space (EADS), Israel Military Industries, General Dynamics, Giat Industries, Lockheed Martin, Saab Bofors, and Thomson Dasa Armements. However, production is not limited to Europe and North America. For example, companies in Brazil, Chile, China, Egypt, Singapore, India, Pakistan and South Africa also currently manufacture and market cluster
Cluster munitions are air-dropped or ground-launched munitions that release a number of smaller sub munitions intended to kill enemy personnel or destroy vehicles. Cluster munitions were developed in World War II and are part of many nations weapons stockpiles
Cluster bombs were first used in World War II, and inclusive of their debut, cluster munitions have been used in at least 21 states by at least 33 different countries. Cluster bombs were first used in World War II by German and Soviet forces. During the 1970s, the USA used massive numbers of cluster bombs in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. More recently, cluster bombs were used extensively in the Gulf War, Chechnya, the former Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, in Lebanon in 2006 ,Georgia and Palestine in 2008 by Russia and Israel..
AFFECTED COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES Afghanistan, Albania, Angola, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cambodia, Chad, Chechnya, Croatia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Falklands/Malvinas, Georgia, Grenada, Iraq, Israel, Kosovo, Kuwait, Lao PDR, Lebanon, Montenegro, Nagorno-Karabakh, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Uganda, Vietnam, Western Sahara.
Cluster Munitions Stockpile in the Americas and Caribbean
In the Americas and Caribbean, Brazil and the United States (US) are producers of cluster munitions. Argentina and Chile have renounced future production. Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Peru, and the US stockpile cluster munitions. Argentina, Canada, and Honduras have destroyed their stockpiles or are in the process of destroying their stockpiles. Brazil, Chile, and the US have exported cluster munitions. At least five countries in the Americas and Caribbean are known to currently stockpile cluster
http://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/related_material/CMC Fact Sheet
(1)USA.The US is the worlds leading known user, producer, stockpiler, and exporter of cluster munitions.
(1)At least 26 million sub munitions were delivered in Cambodia by some 80,000 cluster munitions between 1969 and 1973; (2)At least 260 million submunitions were delivered in Laos by over 414,000 cluster bombs between 1965 and 1973; (3) Nearly 97 million submunitions were dropped in Vietnam by over 296,000 cluster munitions between 1965 and 1975.(4)Between October 2001 and early 2002, US aircraft dropped 1,228 cluster bombs containing 248,056 bomblets at locations throughout the country
(5) In Iraq, a minimum of 50 million sub-munitions have been used in U.S.-led operations between 1991 and 2006. About 3,000 casualties have been identified because of these weapons.(6) In 1982. In the other instance, US Navy aircraft dropped 21 Mk.-20 Rockeye bombs in close air support operations during the invasion of Grenada in November 1983.(7) Lebanon (1983),(8) Persian Gulf (Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia) in 1991, (9) in 1991, former Yugoslavia (Serbia, Montenegro, and Kosovo)
Eight companies in the United States that manufacture cluster munitions. These companies include: Aerojet (Sacramento, California), Alliant TechSystems (Edina, Minnesota), General Dynamics (Falls Church, Virginia), L-3 Communications (Providence, Rhode Island), Lockheed Martin (Bethesda, Maryland and London, UK), Northrup Grumman (Los Angeles, California), Raytheon (Waltham, Massachusetts), and Textron Defense Systems (Austin, Texas).
(2)Brazil Four companies produce cluster munitions in Brazil. Avribras Aeroespacial SA and Britainite Industrias Quimicas produce the ASTROS family of surface-to-surface rockets with submunition warheads. These weapons have been exported to Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. The ASTROS multiple launch rocket system was used by Saudi forces against Iraqi forces during the battle of Khafji in January 1991, leaving behind significant numbers of unexploded submunitions. The company Ares Aeroespacial e Defesa Ltda produces the FZ-100 70mm air-to-surface rockets, akin to the Hydra M261 multipurpose submunitions. Additionally, Target Engenharia et Comércio Ltda. produces two types of cluster bombs (BLG-120, BLG-252) for the Brazilian Air Force and reportedly for export.
(3)Chile. Chile has renounced future production as a matter of declaratory policy. Industrias Cardeon SA and Los Conquistadores 1700 produced at least eight types of air-dropped cluster bombs.7 PM-1 combined effects submunitions delivered by aircraft bombs produced in Chile have been used in Eritrea, Ethiopia, Iraq, and Sudan.
(4)Argentina In Argentina, the Centro de Investigaciones Técnicas y Científicas de las Fuerzas Armadas (CITEFA) developed a prototype 155mm artillery projectile which contained 63 Dual Purpose Improved Conventional Munition (DPICM) grenades equipped with a backup pyrotechnic self-destruct mechanism.
The Belgium Parliament has become the first in the world to approve a law forbidding investments in cluster munitions . A report by Netwerk Vlaanderen reveals that 68 international bank groups have invested a combined total of more than 13 billion in cluster munition producers.
Netwerk Vlaanderen - Home
There appears to be significant discrepancies among failure rate estimates. Some manufacturers claim a submunition failure rate of 2% to 5%, whereas mine clearance specialists have frequently reported failure rates of 10% to 30%.
Cluster Munitions producing Countries in Asia pacific region.
A total of seven countries in the Asia-Pacific region are known to produce cluster munitions. Aside from Europe, this is the largest regional concentration of producing countries. Most production is carried out by state-owned companies or entities
China, India, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Pakistan, and Singapore have produced cluster munitions. China, India, Indonesia, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Mongolia, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand stockpile cluster munitions. China and South Korea are known to have exported cluster munitions. Companies in India, Pakistan, and Singapore publicly advertise cluster munitions for sale.
(1)China Northern Industries Company (NORINCO) produces a full range of air-dropped and surface-launched cluster munitions. Export activity is not known, but Hezbollah fired over 100 Chinese Type-81 122mm rockets into northern Israel in July/August 2006. Type 83 projectile 2 Type 59 projectile, Type 62 projectile, Type 66 projectile, Type 2 bomb
(2) India .The India Ordnance Factories produce and advertise for export 130mm and 155mm artillery projectiles containing dual-purpose improved conventional munition (DPICM) submunitions, which are equipped with a self-destruct feature. These projectiles are the result of a transfer of production technology from Israel Military Industries and are produced at Khamaria Ordnance Factory near Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, the Defense Research and Development Organization of the Ministry of Defence has developed a cargo rocket for submunitions for the 214mm Picacha multi-barrel rocket system. The US announced in September 2008 that it is intending to transfer 510 CBU-105 air-dropped Sensor Fuzed Weapons to India in an arms deal valued at as much as $375 million.
(3)Japan In 2001, the US provided assistance and technical data to support Japans production of CBU-87 Combined Effects Munitions.
(4)South Korea .Two companies in South Korea, Poongsan and Hanwha, produce cluster munitions. South Korea stopped production of old types of cluster munitions, according to its Ministry of Defense, and cluster munitions currently in production have a high level of reliability and most are equipped with [self-destruct] mechanisms. Poongsan transferred DPICM production technology to Pakistan in November 2004. The US also concluded a licensing agreement with South Korea in 2001 for production of DPICM submunitions for Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) rockets.
(5) Pakistan .Pakistan Ordnance Factories produces and offers for export M483A1 155mm artillery projectiles containing 88 M42/M46 DPICM grenades. The South Korean company Poongsan entered into a licensed production agreement with Pakistan Ordnance Factories in November 2004 to co-produce K-310 155mm extended-range DPICM projectiles in Pakistan at Wah Cantonment.12 The Army took delivery of the first production lots in April 2008.
Jane‟s Information Group credits the Pakistan Air Weapons Center with the production of the Programmable Submunitions Dispenser (PSD-1), which is reported to be similar to the Rockeye cluster bomb and dispenses 225 anti-armor bomblets. It states that the Pakistan National Development Complex produces and markets the Hijara Top-Attack Submunitions Dispenser (TSD-1) cluster bomb. Sri Lanka has purchased cluster bombs,from Pakistan cluster munitions and other explosive remnants of war pose a threat to the daily lives of numerous families.
(6)Singapore. The company Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd (ST Kinetics) produces two types of 155mm DPICM artillery projectiles (containing 63 or 49 grenades) equipped with electro-mechanical self-destruct fuzes with an advertised dud rate of 3 percent.16 The company also produces a 120mm mortar bomb which delivers 25 DPICM grenades.
Middle East-North Africa region Stockpiling of Cluster Munitions by States
In the Middle East-North Africa region, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, and Israel have produced cluster munitions. Egypt and Israel have exported cluster munitions. At least fifteen states in the region have stockpiles of the weapon. Cluster munitions have been used in Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and the Western Sahara. A total of four states from the Middle East-North Africa region-Bahrain, Lebanon, Morocco, and Qatar- agreed to adopt the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) in Dublin on May 30, 2008
(1)Israel . Israel is a major producer and exporter of cluster munitions, primarily artillery projectiles and rockets containing the M85 DPICM submunition equipped with a back-up pyrotechnic self-destruct fuze. Israel Military Industries (IMI) produces, license-produces, and exports cluster munitions including artillery projectiles (105mm, 122mm, 130mm, 152mm, 155mm, 175mm, 203mm), mortar bombs (120mm), and rockets (EXTRA, GRADLAR, LAR-160).
IMI has reportedly produced over 60 million M85 DPICM submunitions. IMI concluded licensing agreements in 2004 with companies in India (Indian Ordnance Factories) and the United States (Alliant Techsystems) to produce DPICMs. Companies in Argentina (CITEFA), Germany (Rheinmetall), Romania (Romtechnica), and Switzerland (RAUG) have also assembled or produced these submunitions under license.
Israel transferred four GRADLAR 122mm/160mm rocket launchers to Georgia in 2007. Georgia has acknowledged using the launchers with 160mm Mk.-4 rockets, each containing 104 M85 DPICM submunitions, during its August 2008 conflict with Russia.7 Israel has also produced several types of air-dropped cluster munitions. The Rafael Corporation is credited with producing the ATAP-300, ATAP-500, ATAP-1000 RAM, TAL-1, and TAL-2 cluster bombs, as well as the BARAD Helicopter Submunition Dispenser.8 Israel has imported a variety of cluster munitions from the US, including M26 rockets for its MLRS launchers.
Cluster bombs were the focus of international attention again during the war in Lebanon last year. In the last 72 hours of that conflict, the Israeli defence forces used about four million cluster sub-munitions
(2) Egypt. The Helipolis Company for Chemical Industries in Egypt produces projectiles for 122mm,130mm, and 152mm caliber artillery pieces which contain M42D DPICM submunitions. The SAKR Factory for Developed Industries produced 122mm surface-launched rockets containing 72 submunitions, some of which were exported to Iraq. Egypt is also a significant recipient of exports of cluster munitions, primarily from the United States, which include artillery projectiles, aircraft bombs, and surface-fired multiple launch rockets.
(3) Iran. Media reports indicate that in November 2006 Iran tested a version of the Shahab-2 missile capable of delivering 1,400 bomblets. KMG U- Dispenser ,Prosab-250 bombs,BL-755 Bombs.
(4)Iraq. Prior to 2003, Iraq produced and imported cluster munitions. This included joint development with Yugoslavia of the M87 Orkan (known in Iraq as Ababil) surface-to-surface rocket with submunitions.3 Iraq also produced two types of cluster bombs called the NAAMAN-250 and NAAMAN-500. It acquired ASTROS ground rockets from Brazil.
Seven countries have received cluster munitions of Soviet or Russian manufacture: Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Kuwait, Libya, Syria, and Yemen. The US is a major supplier of cluster munitions to MENA countries. It has exported the weapon to eight countries, including Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Other countries that have transferred cluster munitions to countries in the MENA region include Brazil, Chile, South Africa, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. In a recent transfer in 2006-2007, Turkey sold the UAE 3,020 TRK-122 rockets, each containing 56 M85 DPICM submunitions.
Stockpiling of Cluster Munitions by States in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia .
At least 20 states in the area are known to stockpile cluster munitions. This number has grown as more states have become engaged in the Oslo Process and new information has become available. Montenegro pledged to destroy its stockpile during the Belgrade Conference of Countries Affected by Cluster Munitions in October 2007.
Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, and Slovakia are among the 34 countries known to have produced cluster munitions. Bulgaria, previously identified as a producer, claims to have never produced any type of cluster munition. Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Russia and Slovakia are among the at least 77 countries that have stockpiled cluster munitions.
(1)Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan Submunition contamination has been identified in at least 162 locations in Nagorno-Karabakh. Submunition types cleared by deminers include PTAB-1, ShOAB-0.5, and AO-2.5. There are also reports of contamination in other parts of occupied Azerbaijan, adjacent to Nagorno-Karabakh.
(2) Bosnia & Herzegovina Forces of Yugoslavia and Non-State Armed Groups (NSAG) used cluster munitions during the 1992-1995 conflict. NATO aircraft dropped two CBU-87 bombs.
(3) Tajikistan 1992-1997 civil war.
(4) Chechnya Russian forces used cluster munitions against NSAG in 1994-1996.
(5) Croatia An NSAG used Orkan M-87 multiple rocket launchers to attack Zagreb on 2-3 May 1995. Additionally, the Croatian government claimed that Serb forces used BL-755 bombs in Sisak, Kutina, and along the Kupa River.
(6) Albania Yugoslav forces used rocket-delivered cluster munitions in disputed border areas in 1998-1999, and NATO forces carried out six aerial cluster munition strikes.
(7) Yugoslavia (including Serbia, Montenegro, and Kosovo)
(1)Russia, and historically the USSR, is a major producer and exporter of cluster munitions. It is thought to have a massive stockpile of cluster munitions containing hundreds of millions of submunitions. Cluster munitions of Russian/Soviet origin are reported to be in the stockpiles of at least 29 other countries. The following Russian companies are associated with the production of cluster munitions: Bazalt State Research and Production Enterprise (air-dropped bombs), Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (120mm, 152mm, 203mm artillery projectiles), and Splav State Research and Production Enterprise (122mm, 220mm, 300mm rockets).
Russia Cluster munitions were used by the Soviets in Afghanistan, Soviet forces used air-dropped and rocket-delivered cluster munitions during their invasion and occupation of Afghanistan from 1979 to 1989. A non-state armed group (NSAG) used rocket-delivered cluster munitions on a smaller scale during the subsequent civil war in the 1990s. Chechnya Russian forces used cluster munitions against NSAG in 1994-1996.
Georgia Russian aircraft dropped cluster bombs containing PTAB-2.5M submunitions during attacks on the village of Ruisi and the town of Gori on 12 August 2008. Georgia used GRADLAR 160 multiple launch rocket system with MK4 rockets with M85 submunitions to attack Russian forces at the Roki tunnel. Other types of submunitions identified in Georgia include the air-dropped AO-2.5RTM and a rocket delivered type.
(2)Bosnia & Herzegovina .State owned factories in Bosnia & Herzegovina inherited the capacity to produce cluster munitions during the breakup of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, including the capacity to produce KB-series submunitions and integrate them into carrier munitions like artillery projectiles and rockets. While it has agreed to adopt the CCM and has a unilateral moratorium on the use of cluster munitions in place, the current disposition of existing production capacity and components in Bosnia & Herzegovina is unclear.
(3)Bulgaria. the Vazov Engineering Plants in Bulgaria were associated with the production of 122mm rockets, which includes a variant that contains submunitions (with 15 DPICM grenades) There are limited amounts of cluster munitions of the type RBK-250 and RBK-500 which are currently held by the Bulgarian Armed Forces. On 13 February 2008, the Bulgarian Council of Ministers adopted a decision imposing a moratorium on the use of cluster munitions currently held by the Bulgarian Armed Forces.
(4) Moldova .In 2003, Moldova reported that it possessed 11 220mm Uragan multiple launch rocket systems. It reported the transfer of 860 missiles for this launch system with a submunition warhead (each containing 30 high-explosive submunitions) to Guinea in 2000. It also exported 13 Uragan launch systems to Yemen in 1994.
(5)Polands land forces are equipped with domestically produced 122mm artillery rockets for BM-21 and RM-70/85 multiple launch rocket systems. Each rocket contains 42 GKO DPICM submunitions. Land forces also possess 98mm mortar bombs, each containing 12 GKO DPICM submunitions. The GKO DPICM submunition is equipped with a backup self-destruct fuze.9 The Polish company Tlocznia Metali Pressta Spolka Akcynjna manufactures 122mm rockets. Additionally, the company Dezamet produced the ZK-300 Kisajno cluster bomb containing 315 LBOk-1 fragmentation bomblets.
(6) Romania.In Romania, the company Romarm produces two types of 152mm DPICM artillery projectiles called the CG-540 and CG-540 ER, which contain GAA-001 bomblets. This is reported to be a joint production and marketing venture with Israel Military Industries. The GAA-001 bomblet is described as identical to the Israeli M85 and is produced by the Romanian company Aerotech SA.Another company, Aerostar SA, produces the LAR-160 multiple launch rocket system, which uses the MK4 rocket that contains 104 M85 submunitions. The company ROMAIR is reported to have developed and produced the CL-250 cluster bomb, which is described as similar in appearance to the RBK-250. It is reported to carry BAAT-10 antitank bomblets and BF-10T antipersonnel bomblets.
(7)Serbia also inherited the production and marketing capabilities of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The company Yugoimport SDPR is associated with the production of 122mm and 155mm DPICM artillery projectiles and Orkan surface-to-surface rockets. The types of submunitions carried in these cluster munitions are the KB-1 and KB-2 DPICM. Yugoslavia was the first non-Western country to produce and export DPICM.According to the Janes Information Group,
At the 1991 Paris Air Show it became known that the Yugoslav Air Force was in possession of several bomblets of various types and at least one cluster bomb and cluster bomb unit. Some bombs were thought to have been bought direct from the USSR, and it is believed that others were manufactured under license or even designed by the Federal Directorate of Supply and Procurement (SDPR) in Belgrade, now Serbia. The designations of the cluster bombs are RAB-120 and KPT-150.
(8) Slovakia.The company Konstrukta Defense in Slovakia produces 152mm artillery projectiles and 122mm surface-to-surface rockets with DPICM submunition payloads.
Part 2nd will be published Types of Cluster Munitions in Global Stockpiles Africa and Europe cluster munitions production and stockpile.
Usman karim Based in Lahore Pakistan, lmno25@hotmail.com
