RESPONSE TO BLUE LANTERN CABLE

UNCLAS BAGHDAD 002684 SIPDIS PM/DDTC FOR JUDD STITZIEL E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ETTC KOMC IZ SUBJECT: RESPONSE TO BLUE LANTERN CABLE REF: STATE 066583 ¶1. (SBU) SUMMARY: Based on apparent deficiencies in the accounting for night vision devices (NVDs) provided to Iraqi Security Forces (ISF),the Multi-National Security Transition Command in Iraq (MNSTC-I) is currently conducting a comprehensive field inventory of NVDs. The intent of this inventory is to establish a baseline for the implementation of proper end-use monitoring of NVDs and to assess the current state of affairs with regard to accountability. MNSTC-I will engage MOD to ensure continued end-use monitoring of sensitive items. Embassy Baghdad Pol-Mil will report results of the inventory and continue to coordinate with MNSTC-I on behalf of the Blue Lantern program. END SUMMARY. ¶2. (SBU) On August 12, Pol-Mil Officers attended a meeting of the Multi-National Security Transition Command in Iraq (MNSTC-I) to discuss ongoing end-use monitoring efforts, pursuant to reftel request. Based on IG recommendations from inspections conducted in September 2007 and May 2008, MNSTC-I developed a compliance plan to implement requirements for end-use monitoring of sensitive items, e.g. NVDs, provided to ISF. An end-use monitoring SOP has since been incorporated into the MNSTC-I Logistics SOP. A follow-up IG inspection is scheduled for October 12, to evaluate proposed and recently implemented end-use monitoring procedures. ¶3. (SBU) Additionally, MNSTC-I has developed comprehensive internal procedures for the tracking and inventory of sensitive items to ensure accountability of all on-hand sensitive items requiring end-use monitoring prior to issuance to ISF. MNSTC-I is currently conducting a comprehensive field audit of NVDs provided to ISF in an effort to provide one hundred percent accountability of NVDs. The audit is scheduled for completion by September 15. The audit will establish a baseline for future inventory control procedures and will allow for timely and accurate compliance with the auditing of sensitive items requested by reftel. ¶4. (SBU) MNSTC-I will engage with MOD to ensure continued compliance with end-use monitoring regulations. In addition, MNSTC-I will draft a letter to MOD reiterating end-use monitoring procedures, outlined in a memorandum of agreement signed on November 18, 2005, and drawing attention to potential consequences of future non-compliance ) including, potentially, State,s withholding of end-user licenses. MNSTC-I will also provide guidance and training to responsible ISF personnel on inventory procedures and aid in development of a suitable system of accountability of NVDs. ¶5. (SBU) Upon completion of the ongoing inventory, Pol-Mil Officers will reconcile items noted in reftel with on hand inventory and report results. CROCKER