Avon to supply next-generation helmets to US Army

Avon Protection plc has been awarded a contract to supply the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency with the second generation of its advanced combat helmet.

The contract has a maximum value of $204 million over a five-year duration, being a one-year base period with a maximum value of $46 million plus four further one-year extension options, Avon said Feb. 8.

The United Kingdom-based manufacturer expects initial revenues in its 2024 financial year, starting October 2023. First article testing is expected to be completed in 2023.

"This is another significant, multi-year helmet contract for Avon Protection, following the award for the U.S. Army next-generation integrated head protection system," said CEO Paul McDonald.

The new generation of helmets combine Ceradyne's composite helmet shell molding capabilities, acquired from 3M in 2019, and Team Wendy's helmet liner and retention system technologies, which Avon bought in November 2020.

With the new technology, McDonald said Avon has "further enhanced our leadership position in helmet technology and broadened our portfolio, increasing our competitiveness in mid-specification ballistic helmets."