US sanctions companies involved in Pakistan ballistic missile program

The U.S. Department of State has announced sections against four companies for their alleged involvement in Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, including its long-range missile capabilities.

The sanctions were imposed under Executive Order 13382, which targets proliferators of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems, said the state department in a statement.

The companies are Xi’an Longde Technology Development, Tianjin Creative Source International Trade and Granpect Co. Ltd from China and Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant from Belarus.

Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (Belarus) provided specialized vehicle chassis used as launch support equipment for Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missiles.

Xi’an Longde Technology Development Company Limited allegedly supplied missile-related equipment, including a filament winding machine, potentially used in producing rocket motor cases.

Tianjin Creative Source International Trade Co Ltd is sanctioned for providing equipment like stir welding machines and a linear accelerator system, potentially used in manufacturing propellant tanks and inspecting solid rocket motors.

And Granpect Company Limited is alleged to collaborate with Pakistan’s space agency and missile development complex to supply equipment for testing large-diameter rocket motors.

These entities “have engaged in activities or transactions that have materially contributed to, or pose a risk of materially contributing to, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or their means of delivery, including any efforts to manufacture, acquire, possess, develop, transport, transfer or use such items, by Pakistan,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Friday.

These sanctions freeze any assets these entities may have within U.S. jurisdiction and prohibit U.S. individuals and companies from engaging in transactions with them.