Norway has foiled Iranian attempts to buy technology for weapons of mass destruction (WMD) that might be used to deliver a nuclear missile, Norway’s security chief has revealed.
Janne Kristiansen, general director of the Norwegian Police Security Service, told Reuters that Iran tried to circumvent the state-owned Kongsberg Defense firm by contacting smaller companies that sell dual-purpose components and technology which can be used for building or delivering nuclear missiles, as well as for civilian uses.
She declined to name the companies or state the specific products Iran has been seeking but stated that Iran did not succeed in obtaining sensitive technology despite “pushy behavior” by Iranians who initially inquired about harmless products.
Iran has consistently denied charges by Israel and Western leaders that it is trying to reach nuclear capability, with Israel in it sights. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has stated that Israel “should be wiped off the map.”
Kristiansen said the would-be buyers, after presenting their initial requests, added to their list more sensitive products and proposed financing and transportation to get around Norwegian export regulations.
"We have… seen how small companies with falling revenues and liquidity problems can become potential targets for procurement actors,” she said. “Such firms are in a vulnerable position and will potentially have a hard time saying no to lucrative contract offers."