The federal army is constantly losing weapons and ammunition, including as a result of theft. Most incidents are due to ‘carelessness’, as Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner confirms. The Greens see a significant need for improvement, especially in the area of handling weapons and ammunition.
Two StG77 assault rifles were stolen last year, according to Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner’s (ÖVP) answer to a parliamentary question from the Greens. However, according to the ministry, the majority of the incidents were due to “misconduct” and “carelessness”.
An assault rifle is still missing
In June, two StG77 assault rifles were stolen from the army non-commissioned officer academy at the Towarek school barracks in Enns (Upper Austria). One of these rifles was found again by the Carinthian state police, the other remained missing. A flare gun 57 was also stolen during the incident, which is also still missing.
In all incidents, internal investigations were initiated by the Federal Ministry of Defense (BMLV) and law enforcement agencies were also involved. The suspected perpetrators have been reported. Activities in security-sensitive areas were restricted for those affected unless they were dismissed or fired as a result of the crime.
The investigation into the stolen StG77 is still ongoing. The theft of weapon parts for the assault rifle on June 19, 2024 by the 1st Engineer Battalion in the Villach garrison remains unexplained. Another Glock P80 pistol, which was stolen during a 2023 burglary at the Vienna military headquarters, has now been recovered.
Stögmüller: “Worrying and worrying”
Not only weapons but also ammunition belonging to the armed forces were repeatedly stolen. In July 2024, approximately six 5.56 mm cartridges were found at the home address of an army employee. In 2023, 400 9-millimeter cartridges were found at a soldier’s home.
David Stögmüller, defense spokesman for the Green Party, expressed concern: “Any loss of a weapon is worrying and worrying – every stolen weapon is one too many.” a huge risk to public safety Stögmüller criticized the lack of transparency and called for improvements in the handling of weapons and ammunition, especially in foreign missions and during exercises.
Source: Krone
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