Background information and explanations

Before accessing the database, users are asked to familiarise themselves with the information provided on the different outputs the database can generate. Users are particularly advised to consult the page explaining the TIV Tables before using the TIV data generated by the database.

The database is constantly being revised and updated as new information becomes available. For this reason, information previously extracted from the database, or contained in previous editions of the SIPRI Yearbook, may now be incorrect. If you wish to use information from the database it is therefore best to access data here as and when you need it. All information from the database is available for use free of charge on condition that the 'User rules' are abided by.

Both the size of the database and the difficulty of obtaining reliable information on arms transfers mean that errors are innevitable. We would appreciate it if users report such errors. We would also welcome users alerting us to publicly available sources containing information that may improve the content of the database.