SANTA CLARA, Calif. – BAE Systems has been awarded a $32 million contract for add-on-armor kits and Transparent Armored Gun Shields (TAGS) from the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM).

“We’re seeing examples where the M113 up-armor suites are enhancing soldier survivability,” said Paul Para, program manager for BAE Systems. “These add-on armor packages, combined with our transparent armor, provide an enhanced level of protection for troops against the threats faced in urban environments.”

The contract calls for TAGS, as well as applique, bar armor and mine protection to be installed on M113 vehicles currently in service in Iraq. Production began in February and theater installation will end in August 2006.

The contract follows an earlier award from August 2005 for the delivery of 320 armor suites for installation on M113A3 vehicles, which began in December and completes in April 2006.

BAE Systems’ TAGS units have been configured for a wide range of vehicles, including Bradley, M1 Abrams, M113, HMMWV, and for the Stryker Common Ballistic Shield. TAGS units are particularly effective in close-combat urban environments.

BAE Systems
09.03.2006