items of interest

with contributions from Steven Lee Myers, Derrick Henry, David G. Myers, Joy Duckett Cain

Although there are no major wars in the world and the cold war appears to be over, arms manufacturing is not declining but growing. A recent report by the Congressional Research Service indicates that international arms sales have reached the highest level since 1996. United States contractors lead the pack, having sold almost $11.8 billion in weapons last year—slightly over a third of the total sales in the world.

Russia and Germany are next in line with $4 billion or more in sales. China, which sold nearly $2 billion, is also emerging as a major source.

Reported by Steven Lee Myers
"Global Arms Sales Swell
to $30 Billion"
The New York Times
August 21, 2000