BLUE LANTERN (DTC CASE 05-1007717) -- EXPORT OF

UNCLAS PRAGUE 001420 SIPDIS SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR PM/DTCC-BLUE LANTERN COORDINATOR E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ETTC KOMC LH UK EZ SUBJECT: BLUE LANTERN (DTC CASE 05-1007717) -- EXPORT OF NIGHT VISION GOGGLE PARTS REF: STATE 170863 ¶1. (U) Poloff contacted Aviation Service on November 16 and spoke to General Manager Josef Eifler about the equipment referenced in reftel. According to Mr. Eifler, the equipment is helicopter "navigation and communications equipment," which was manufactured and modified by Honeywell for use with night vision goggles (reftel identified the equipment as "night vision goggle parts"). Mr. Eifler offered to provide the list of the parts involved in the transaction upon request. ¶2. (U) Poloff asked Mr. Eiffler the following questions specified in reftel. Q: When was Aviation Service established? A: 1991. Mr. Eifler noted that Aviation Service is a licensed Honeywell dealer. Q: Who are Aviation Service's typical customers? A: Central European Ministries of Defense, police, border guards, general aviation operators, and private aircraft operators. Q: Can Aviation Service confirm the order for NVG parts from the British MOD? How long has Aviation Service done business with the British MOD? A: Mr. Eifler explained that Aviation Service is the reseller of the equipment, and does not have direct business dealings with the British MOD. Helisota, Aviation's partner in the transaction, has the sales contract with the British MOD. Mr. Eifler confirmed that it is his understanding that the British MOD is the end user of the equipment. ¶3. (U) Post has previously investigated a Aviation Service in connection with a transation with the Czech police involving night vision goggle equipment (DTC case 05-991215) and is satisfied the company is a legitimate company. ¶4. (U) For more information, contact Political Officer Brian Greaney (420-257-022-306),or Political Officer Sarah Peck (420-257-022-312). GRABER