Suspected Nuclear Cargo: Indian Authorities Intercept Suspected Dual-Use Shipment to Pakistan

Security agencies halted a Karachi-bound ship from China at the Nhava Sheva port, suspecting it carried a consignment with potential dual-use for Pakistan’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. The Malta-flagged merchant ship, CMA CGM Attila, was detained on January 23 based on intelligence input, with customs officials inspecting a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine, originally from an Italian manufacturer.

What is a CNC machine?

CNC machines, operated by computers, offer high efficiency and precision, making them valuable for various applications, including missile development. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) verified the machine’s potential utility for Pakistan’s nuclear endeavors.

Under the Wassenaar Arrangement, CNC machines are regulated to prevent their proliferation for military purposes. Indian authorities, alerted by port officials, seized the consignment, highlighting concerns about potential proliferation by Pakistan and China.

Also read: Tripartite Agreement Signed in Delhi by Centre, Tripura Government, and TIPRA Motha

Ongoing probe:

Further investigation revealed discrepancies in the consignment’s documentation, indicating the involvement of entities beyond those initially listed. Similar incidents have occurred previously, with Indian authorities intercepting restricted items en route from China to Pakistan.

The ongoing probe seeks to uncover whether Pakistani entities, including Cosmos Engineering, are funneling dual-use items to bolster Pakistan’s defense capabilities, potentially violating international conventions such as the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).

Despite international scrutiny and sanctions on Chinese companies involved in such activities, covert cooperation between China and Pakistan persists, undermining global non-proliferation efforts. The interception underscores the need for heightened vigilance to curb illicit trade in sensitive technologies.