KNDS: No Misconduct Found in 2013 Qatar Defense Transaction Investigation
Investigation into 2013 Qatar Defense Transaction
Background of the Investigation
BERLIN, April 29 (Reuters) - Franco-German tank maker KNDS said on Wednesday it had launched an investigation into a legacy transaction with the Qatar armed forces dating back to 2013, which is being conducted by external legal counsel and advisory firms and includes an assessment of a previous review.
Current Findings and Company Statement
"Based on the current findings of the ongoing investigation, which is well advanced but remains subject to completion, there is no evidence which would warrant the conclusion that any KNDS employees (past or present) involved in the transaction engaged in criminal misconduct," the company said in a statement.
Details of the Contracts
Procurement and Equipment
The contracts in question, originally signed by KNDS predecessor Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, covered the procurement of 24 PzH 2000 artillery systems, 62 Leopard 2 tanks, further defense equipment, related services as well as training and simulation equipment, KNDS said.
Additional Information
(Reporting by Thomas SeythalEditing by Madeline Chambers)
