In its statement, Leonardo emphasized that it has never engaged in the sale of OTO Melara 76/62 guns to the Myanmar Armed Forces, either directly or indirectly through third parties. This includes the period prior to the implementation of the 1996 arms embargo and the establishment of the ‘Legge 185/90’ Italian arms export law.
“Leonardo categorically denies these rumors. The company has never sold or delivered the 76/62 gun to Myanmar’s armed forces, either before or after the embargo,” said a company spokesperson. The statement also highlighted that Leonardo’s arms sales are governed by strict regulations under Italy's arms export control laws, which require End User Certificates from the relevant government authorities.The company further clarified its relationship with BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited), which holds a license agreement for the production of the OTO Melara 76/62 gun. Under this agreement, BHEL is prohibited from exporting the weapon without prior authorization from both Leonardo and Italian authorities. In response to the rumors, BHEL confirmed on 9 January 2025 that it has never supplied the 76/62 gun to Myanmar.
Leonardo also confirmed that Myanmar is included on its list of sensitive countries, meaning no transactions involving Myanmar—whether military or civilian goods—can occur without a thorough and careful assessment. The company assured that its Trade Compliance policies are in place to ensure full adherence to all applicable export control laws and sanctions regimes.The company further stated that it reserves the right to take appropriate legal action to defend its reputation against the baseless reports and will pursue necessary measures in the appropriate forums.