BAE Completes Purchase of Armor Holdings

Defense Daily, August 1, 2007

BAE SYSTEMS yesterday said it has completed its $4.5 billion acquisition of Armor Holdings, significantly expanding its presence in the tactical vehicle market in the United States as well as in force and personnel armor protection.

"Armor Holdings" expertise in automotive design and lean, high-volume manufacturing technologies in combination with BAE's expertise in combat vehicle design, rapid prototyping and survivability systems, will strengthen our ability to provide the armed forces with tactical wheeled vehicles with increased survivability," Walt Havenstein, president and CEO of the United States-based operations of BAE, said in a statement.

Armor Holdings will be integrated into BAE's Land and Armaments division, which is also based in the United States. The deal also significantly expands United Kingdom-based BAE's business in the United States. Armor Holdings had about $2.4 billion in sales last year.

Current tactical wheeled vehicle programs that Armor Holdings is either the prime contractor for or provides significant content on include the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles, Up-Armored Humvees, and the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle.

BAE said that it will be able to provide Armor Holdings with a global marketing presence to offer its tactical wheeled vehicles in overseas markets. BAE also said it will be able to enhance Armor Holdings' logistics and support capabilities.

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