US continues to dominate arms exports, benefits greatly from Europe

(CLO) According to the latest report of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the US will maintain its position as the world's largest arms exporter during the 2020-2024 period.

The US share of global arms exports rose to 43%, almost as much as the next eight leading exporters combined. US arms companies supplied weapons to 107 countries during this period, asserting their absolute dominance in the sector.

One of the key factors contributing to the increase in US arms exports is the strong demand from Europe. Arms imports from this region increased by 155% in the period 2020 - 2024 compared to the period 2015 - 2019. The main reason is the Russia - Ukraine conflict from 2022, causing many European countries to rush to strengthen their defense capabilities.

Weapons like this US artillery rocket were being sent to Ukraine, until President Donald Trump stopped all deliveries. Photo: US Army

Notably, Ukraine became the world’s largest arms importer during the same period, accounting for 8.8% of total global arms imports. The US played an important role in supplying nearly half of Ukraine’s weapons, before suspending military aid under President Donald Trump.

Europe’s dependence on US arms continues to be evident, with more than 50% of the region’s arms imports coming from the US. The UK, the Netherlands and Norway are the biggest buyers. However, European countries are gradually reducing their dependence on the US by strengthening their domestic defence industries.

While the US consolidates its lead, Russia faces a serious decline in arms exports. Russia's arms exports will fall to 7.8% of the global market share in 2020-2024, compared to 21% in the previous four years. The main reasons are international sanctions related to the war in Ukraine and increased domestic demand for weapons.

Hoai Phuong (according to SIPRI, DW, Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/my-tiep-tuc-thong-tri-xuat-khau-vu-khi-huong-loi-lon-tu-chau-au-post337812.html