Withdrawal of call for tenders for the supply of firearms to Frontex

20.9.2021

Question for written answer  E-004294/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Özlem Demirel (The Left)

Frontex is seeking to equip its Category 1 standing corps officers with 2 500 firearms and 3.6 million rounds of ammunition. However, the call for tenders issued accordingly has now been withdrawn due to ‘discontinuity’. In fact, the Frontex Regulation does not provide for the acquisition of weapons. The issuing of Frontex officers with weapons and ammunition would for the first time provide the EU with its own armed force.

• 1.What has prompted Frontex to withdraw the call for tenders for the supply of firearms and ammunition on grounds of ‘discontinuity’ and how does it now intend to obtain them?
• 2.What are the legal bases for the acquisition, storage and transport of firearms and ammunition by Frontex and what requirements are contained therein?
• 3.With which EU Member States or third countries has Frontex concluded agreements for the loan of firearms and ammunition and what are the terms of these agreements?