Article Posted on : - Apr 27, 2012

The Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (ESAPI) plates. Photo: BAE Systems.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA (BNS): BAE Systems has received a $75 million order from the US Defence Logistics Agency (DLA) to produce and deliver hard armour inserts used to protect soldiers and other men and women in combat.

The ESAPI plate protects against multiple hits from small arms threats. These hard armour inserts help to save lives on the battlefield, Don Dutton, vice president and general manager of Protection Systems at BAE Systems Support Solutions, said in the company statement.

The Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (ESAPI) plates are worn in soft armour vests, such as the Improved Outer Tactical Vest, to protect against a variety of ballistic threats.

The $75 million order is part of a new, three-year contract from DLA Troop Support. The total value of contract orders could reach approximately $236 million over the next three years.

ESAPI plates are manufactured at the BAE Systems Phoenix, Arizona. facility, and deliveries are expected to begin this September and continue through August 2013.