LADSON, S.C.--Leading armored vehicle manufacturer Force Protection, Inc., supporting U.S. armed forces against explosive threats in Iraq, announced it has shipped the first Cougar Joint Explosive Ordnance Disposal Rapid Response Vehicle (JERRV) under a joint-services contract awarded by the Department of Defense on May 15, 2005.

Marine Corps Systems Command administers the JERRV program, which is funded by the Joint IED Defeat Task Force. Under an accelerated production schedule, a total of 122 vehicles will be completed and delivered to Iraq by the end of February 2006 where they will be used to support troops in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines who are engaged in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

"Today's shipment is indicative of Force Protection's commitment and ability to deliver critically-needed equipment to our soldiers in conflict," said CEO Gordon McGilton. "We are delivering the world's most advanced ballistic protection technology at an unprecedented rate, and will continue to do everything necessary to ensure that all branches of the military receive these vehicles as we fulfill the terms of this joint contract."

As part of the contract, Force Protection will also provide spare parts, operator and maintenance training and in-country field service representatives to assist in the rapid deployment of the vehicles.

"The Cougar JERRV vehicle is a vitally important component of U.S. operations in Iraq," said Force Protection Industries, Inc. President Ted McQuinn. "This effort is also a clear example of our federal government's new acquisition strategy: the Department of Defense rapidly gathered new vehicle requirements from field commanders; the acquisition community documented those requirements to industry suppliers; and Force Protection has now partnered aggressively with our subcontractors to deliver this first vehicle as specified, on time."

Force Protection, Inc.
25.08.2005