A Guardian investigation has revealed that European missile giant MBDA is supplying key components for bombs used by Israel in Gaza, with evidence linking these weapons to attacks that killed hundreds of civilians, including children. Profits from the sales flow through MBDA’s UK division to major European defense companies.

Europe’s largest missile manufacturer, MBDA, has been exposed for selling vital components for the US-made GBU-39 bombs used in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza. The components, manufactured by MBDA’s US subsidiary in Alabama, include “Diamond Back” wings that guide the bombs to their targets.

Despite Britain’s decision to suspend some arms sales to Israel in 2024 over fears of “serious violations” of international law, these restrictions do not apply to MBDA’s US arm. Revenues from MBDA Inc flow through MBDA UK and are distributed to shareholders: BAE Systems, Airbus, and Leonardo.

Verified Civilian Casualties from GBU-39 Bombs

The Guardian, alongside independent outlets Disclose and Follow the Money, verified 24 separate Israeli airstrikes involving GBU-39s where civilians, including children, were killed. Sites included schools, tent camps, and homes where displaced families sheltered. At least 500 civilians died, with over 100 children among them.

One of the most notorious incidents occurred on May 26, 2024, when Israeli jets bombed the Fahmi al-Jarjawi school in Gaza City. The attack killed 36 people, half of them children. Survivors like five-year-old Hanin al-Wadie suffered severe burns and trauma. Amnesty International and the UN have flagged several such incidents as potential war crimes.

Profits Flow Despite Export Bans

MBDA confirmed its contractual ties to Boeing for supplying the bomb components but defended its compliance with national and international laws. Campaigners argue the UK’s suspension of some arms licenses is inadequate, as MBDA’s US arm remains unaffected and continues supplying Israel.

MBDA paid out nearly £350 million in dividends to its European shareholders in 2024. The company’s UK division alone contributes 40% of its revenues.

Allegations of Complicity in War Crimes

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, criticized the use of GBU-39 bombs in densely populated civilian areas, warning that such actions may constitute war crimes. Donatella Rovera of Amnesty stressed the legal obligation to avoid civilian harm and condemned Israel’s repeated targeting of shelters.

Weapons experts identified MBDA’s components in the debris of multiple strikes. The attacks took place without warnings to civilians, violating international humanitarian norms.

The investigation highlights how European defense companies profit from the Gaza conflict despite mounting evidence of civilian harm and legal breaches. UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese described corporate profits as fueling Israel’s actions and called for accountability under the UN’s business and human rights principles.

Critics demand stronger measures, including sanctions and divestments, to prevent companies like MBDA from profiting from conflicts where war crimes are alleged.