Kanjorski Announces $7.4 Million Defense Contract for Scranton-Area Company

WASHINGTON-Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski (PA-11) today announced that Specialty Defense Systems in Dunmore was awarded a $7.4 million contract to produce 24,090 helmets for the U.S. Army.

"In this time of war, I am glad a company in my district is able to provide these life-saving items to the men and women serving in our armed forces," Congressman Kanjorski said. "The fact that this is the second contract awarded to this company within a month is a credit to the quality of products manufactured there."

The Scranton-area manufacturing plant was awarded a $6.1 million contract last month for military backpacks.

SDS Executive Vice President Sean Martin described the Warrior Helmets as "the new ballistic helmet for the U.S. Army combat soldier."

Mr. Martin was excited that the U.S. Army chose to purchase the initial number of helmets.

"This contract repositions our company as a major supplier of helmets for ground troops," Mr. Martin said.

The helmets will be manufactured in the local plant and are expected to be finished by Nov. 12, 2004.

The announcement comes 13 months after Congressman Kanjorski toured Specialty Defense Systems. The plant, which employs 80 people, was founded in 1969.

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