Munich Prosecutors Probe KNDS Over 2013 Qatar Tank Deal
Munich prosecutors open preliminary inquiry into KNDS over alleged bribery in 2013 Qatar arms deal; company says internal review found no wrongdoing.
German-French defence manufacturer KNDS has confirmed that Munich prosecutors have initiated a preliminary inquiry into a 2013 arms contract with Qatar, following allegations that commission payments may have constituted disguised bribes.
The deal in question involved the supply of 62 Leopard 2 main battle tanks and 24 Panzerhaubitze 2000 self-propelled howitzers to the Gulf state, valued at approximately €1.89 billion (around $2.19 billion).
KNDS stated that it had engaged external experts earlier this year to scrutinise the transaction after concerns emerged that millions of euros paid to a Qatari consulting firm could have been intended as illicit payments. The company said this review is now at an advanced stage and has so far uncovered no indications that its employees engaged in criminal conduct.
The Munich public prosecutor's office has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter. The inquiry remains at a preliminary stage, meaning formal charges have not been filed.