DeLauro Language Cracking Down On Russian Arms Exporter Included In DOD Funding Legislation

Press Release

Language authored by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) that would continue the strong ban on Defense Department (DOD) contracts with Rosoboronexport was approved by the House of Representatives Appropriations Committee today. The provision was included in legislation funding the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2016.

DeLauro has led congressional opposition to DOD's relationship with Rosoboronexport, the Russian state arms dealer. That opposition led to the Pentagon canceling a planned future purchase of helicopters from Rosoboronexport.

"Between 2011 and 2014, the Defense Department has awarded Russia's arms exporter, Rosoboronexport, more than $1 billion in no-bid contracts to buy 63 Russian helicopters for the Afghan National Security Forces that the Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction reported the Afghan do not have the capability to operate or maintain. We cannot support Russian jobs and the Russian interest at the expense of America's interest and workers."

The language continues to prevent the Pentagon from contracting for helicopters or other weapons with Rosoboronexport. If the Secretary of Defense waives the ban, he must certify the firm is no longer delivering weapons to Syria and Russia is no longer destabilizing Ukraine. He must also certify there are no alternative contracting options to meet mission requirements. The Pentagon's Inspector General is required to investigate any waiver use.

Identical language was contained in legislation passed by Congress last December that funds the federal government through September 30, the end of the current fiscal year. The bill passed by the Appropriations Committee today would extend the strengthened ban through the next fiscal year.

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