Ceradyne, Inc., a 3M company, has been awarded a $92.7 million body armor contract by Defense Logistics Agency for delivery of 177,000 pieces. The plates reportedly are designed to meet stringent performance requirements outlined by the U.S. Department of Defense. Worn by U.S. soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, the lightweight enhanced small arms protective inserts are inserted into outer, modular tactical vests to provide torso protection against small arms fire. Production and deliveries are expected to begin in 2016. 

“3M is pleased to win this contract, and we are honored to provide body armor for the U.S. military," said Cheryl Ingstad, business manager, Advanced Ceramics Platform: Defense. “We continue to make it our mission to leverage innovation in advanced materials science and the manufacturing process to deliver highly engineered body armor that meets the exacting quality standards of the U.S. Department of Defense. We never forget that the primary purpose of every body armor plate is to save the life of the military member who wears it.” 

Ceradyne reportedly has fielded over two million body armor inserts and 100,000 enhanced combat helmets to the U.S. Armed Forces. 3M has deep expertise in safety products used by the military, such as Peltor tactical communications systems, and head, eye, hearing and respiratory protection. Ceradyne body armor will be on display along with other 3M soldier-protection solutions at SOFIC, May 24-26 in Tampa, Fla., at 3M booth 525. 

For more information, visit www.3M.com.