Early yesterday morning four Palestine Action supporters broke into an electronic systems manufacturer in High Wycombe. GRiD Defence Systems is a small company employing around 18 people, which supplies computers, processors and other equipment designed specifically for use in battlefield conditions.
Last week, Palestine Action paid another visit to a subsidiary of Israeli arms company Elbit Systems in Kent – Instro Precision. While there, they discovered equipment supplied by GRiD, which confirmed researchers’ belief that GRiD worked with Elbit, even though Elbit Systems is not mentioned on their client page. Further evidence of a link was found this morning while they occupied the building and discovered what they believe to be radio screens destined for Elbit.
GRiD also supplies equipment to Leonardo, who produce Apache helicopters for Israel, and Lockheed Martin, who manufacture F-35 fighter jets used in Gaza.
After several hours, the building was stormed by riot police and the four activists were arrested after causing substantial damage to the company.
Palestine Action have been disrupting the arms trade with Israel for several years. Watch the Real Media documentary of their origins.
UPDATE – the four arrestees were released by police the following day.