Defence manufacturer Avon Protection has secured its second multi-million pound deal in as many weeks with an order from US military chiefs for its state-of-the-art helmets.
The Melksham-based group, which specialises in protective gear, masks and breathing equipment for the military and first-responder markets, is to supply the US Defense Logistics Agency with another batch of its second-generation Advanced Combat Helmet, pictured, in an order worth $14.2m (£11.2m).
The additional delivery is under a framework contract announced in February 2022 worth $204m over five years and which made Avon Protection as the leading helmet supplier to the US defense department.
The helmet design combines world-leading technology acquired by Avon Protection in two separate US takeovers in 2020.
The shell moulding capabilities come from Ceradyne and the helmet liner and retention system technologies from Team Wendy.
Under a separate order, Avon Protection is also supplying the US Army with its next-generation Integrated Head Protection System.
The helmet order follows hot on the heels of a multi-million euro order to sell specialist breathing gear for divers to the German navy.
Under that deal, precise details of which have not been disclosed, the Avon Protection will supply its multi-role rebreathers and ongoing technical support.
The group, which changed its name in 2021 from Avon Rubber, employs more than 1,000 people in seven locations.
Much of last year was spent recovering from a tough period during which its shares lost around 70% of their value as it struggled to overcome damaging delays in military orders from the US.
However, last October the group said its order book was recovering while a strategic move to more profitable product lines was beginning to pay off.
