India recently seized two dual-use technology items, which have applications in both civil and nuclear domains, from a Malta-flagged vessel. The vessel had sailed from China and was reportedly en route to Pakistan.
Overview
The seized items, identified as advanced Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinery manufactured by GKD in Italy, offer a level of efficiency, consistency, and accuracy that is unattainable through manual methods. It is believed that these advanced CNC machines were being diverted to Pakistan through China, with potential applications in manufacturing critical components for Pakistan’s missile development program.
The consignment, shipped on 9 January via the Malta-flagged merchant vessel CMA CGM Attila from Shekou Port, China, was destined for Karachi Port. Cosmos Engineering, a Pakistani defense supplier, was identified as the consignee.
However, during the vessel’s voyage, it unexpectedly made a port call at Nhava Sheva Port (JNPT) in Mumbai on 22 January. Indian customs officials then seized the consignment for potential proliferation concerns involving its neighbours.
🔊 Statement by the Spokesperson Regarding Indian Seizure of Commercial Equipment Destined for Pakistan
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) March 2, 2024
🔗 ⬇️ https://t.co/r1sCWdOCZA pic.twitter.com/Pq6xFdEvmA
Watchlisted Company
Speaking anonymously, customs officials revealed that Cosmos Engineering had been on a watchlist since March 2022.
The company had been watchlisted after Pakistan attempted to procure thermo-electric instruments from an Italian firm, with Cosmos Engineering listed as the consignee. The consignment was intercepted at JNPT on 23 March 2022 to prevent any potential proliferation activities through Indian ports.
Previous Instances
This is not the first instance underlining concerns about technology transfers with implications for missile development. In February 2020, there were reports of China supplying an autoclave, a device crucial in the launch process of ballistic missiles, while inaccurately declaring it as an industrial dryer.
The autoclave was found concealed in the bottom cargo of a ship transiting through Kandla, Gujarat. The incident heightened concerns about Pakistan’s potential involvement in illicit trade related to missiles, potentially violating the Missile Technology Control Regime.
International Checks
The international community, particularly Western nations, has become increasingly vigilant about the unchecked trading of missile technologies. In a June 2023 report, the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) sanctioned three Chinese companies — General Technology Limited (autoclave supplier to Pakistan), Beijing Luo Luo Technology Development, and Changzhou Utek Composite Company — for their involvement in the supply of missile-applicable items to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.
Such incidents highlight the challenges posed by ‘bypass countries’ that may facilitate the movement of proliferation-sensitive items.