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Armor Express Secures Contract with U.S. Marshals Service to Outfit Officers with AMP-1 TP VPAM-certified Ballistic Helmets

Thursday, September 14th, 2017

CENTRAL LAKE, MI, September 13, 2017 – Central Lake Armor Express, Inc. (“Armor Express”), a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-performance body armor solutions, is proud to announce that the U.S. Marshals Service has awarded the Company a contract to outfit Officers in the Western District of Virginia with its latest helmet innovation, the Busch AMP-1 TP ballistic helmet certified to the VPAM standard.

The United States Marshals Service (USMS) is the primary federal agency charged with conducting fugitive investigations throughout the country. The agency regularly works in concert with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to seek out and arrest violent fugitives and sex offenders, and has established task forces throughout the nation to facilitate the apprehension of fugitives.

“We are honored to support this crucial branch of Federal Law Enforcement and stand ready to service their requirements,” stated David Jones, Director of Federal Sales. “We worked to ensure they have the most reliable, high-performance head gear. The Armor Express team understands the enormous danger that USMS officers face when dealing with the most violent fugitives and offenders, and having state-of-the-art protective equipment is of critical importance. We look forward to growing our partnership through the development and delivery of life-saving armor solutions that enable our men and women in uniform to do their job and return home safely.”

Introduced in early 2017, the Busch PROtective AMP-1 TP helmet is certified to VPAM (HVN-2009), the Gold Standard of ballistic testing within Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and brings first rate protection to tactical law enforcement, anti-terror and specialized police officers who may be exposed to close quarter combat and increased risk of being shot within the head region. The helmet is constructed of a multi-layered aramid composite, using a patented EBSP method – a unique production technique that creates elite ballistic capabilities previously attainable only in Titanium helmets.

Weighing an average of 3.6 pounds, the AMP-1 TP is able to stop ballistic threats as close as .78” from the edge and multiple shots on a small surface area. Its increased edge and multi-impact capabilities enhance the helmet’s protective area by up to 50%, compared to standard ballistic helmets. For the risk of taking multiple hits at close range, another key protective element is the helmet’s ability to transfer and dissipate energy around its shell, thereby reducing blunt force trauma. The helmet’s EBSP process counters this threat, thereby significantly reducing the energy transfer to the skull to less than 25 joules. VPAM’s extremely high testing requirements measure back-face deformation, ensuring when the helmet is hit by an incoming round, there is minimal energy transferred from the helmet shell to the user’s head. Further, the AMP-1 TP offers high fragmentation protection of more than 2,034 f/s, according to STANAG 2920.

The helmet comes with a unique rail-system with speed-connect system (SCS) technology, advanced protective padding system certified to the EN 397 (impact/shock attenuation standard), wheel dial for ultimate uni-sizing flexibility, and protective bag. The ‘uni-size’ feature is instrumental, helping departments with typical limited budgets to remove the cost of having to purchase multiple units based on individual fit. The special rail-system with speed-connect system (SCS) gives the wearer even more tactical and modular protective capability. The modular protective visors with varied protection levels (Blunt Impact, Fragmentation, or 9mm/44Mag) can be added/removed from the helmet within seconds, without ever having to take off the helmet – providing the benefit of always being protected. Additional accessories include the NVG 3-hole shroud, helmet cover (black or green color), helmet Velcro kit, helmet counter weight kit, visor protective cover and side-rail adaptor. The AMP-1 TP helmet comes in black, green and sand colors.

For more insights on the Busch AMP-1 TP helmet, along with all soft and hard armor solutions, visit the Armor Express website at www.armorexpress.com.

Tags: Armor Express
Posted in Contracts, Helmets, Press Release | 2 Comments »

Armor Express Awarded Major Contract with Florida’s Orange County Fire Rescue Department to Outfit Firefighters and EMS Officers with Personal Protection Equipment

Friday, June 9th, 2017

Hundreds of first responders to benefit from state-of-the-art body armor, including ballistic resistant vests and helmets certified to NIJ requirements and tested against special threats

CENTRAL LAKE, MI, June 8, 2017 – Central Lake Armor Express, Inc. (“Armor Express”), a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-performance body armor solutions, is pleased to announce today that the Company has been awarded a contract with the Orange County Fire Rescue Department (OCFRD) in Florida to outfit Officers with its advanced HardcoreTM SU carrier and QuantumTM Level IIIA armor featuring ballistic cummerbund inserts for full wrap-around protection. Additionally, Armor Express will provide OCFRD with its high-performance BUSCH AMP-1 E Level IIIA ballistic helmet, featuring uni-size capability.

“We are very excited by this incredible opportunity with Orange County Fire Rescue and our vital partnership to ensure that their firefighting, rescue and medical emergency officers have the most reliable personal protective equipment required,” stated Rex McGrath, Armor Express’ Channel Manager for Fire/EMS. “As the largest fire and rescue agency in Central Florida, serving roughly 1,000,000 citizens and visitors and responding to more than 119,000 service calls annually, we’re honored to support OCFRD with advanced body armor solutions. We’re committed to addressing the unique needs of their first responders, who often don’t know what level of threat they’re responding to. These men and women put their lives on the line every day when there’s a crisis and they ensure our communities are safe. In turn, we stand ready to safeguard them.”

Under the terms of the contract, Orange County Fire Rescue purchased 350 ballistic armor systems and helmets respectively, along with 160 carry bags for proper equipment storage. The award is sponsored in part by the County and by a grant from the Office of the Medical Director.

“Given the extensive history of fire and EMS response to active shooter events, from 1999 at Columbine High School to the Pulse nightclub tragedy last year, and ongoing events throughout the nation and the world, Orange County Fire Rescue is ensuring our first responders are properly equipped and prepared to safely respond and render care to those impacted by violent incidents in our community,” said Chief Otto Drozd III. “All positions on field response units are now equipped with ballistic vests and helmets. Crew members are authorized to deploy the vests and helmets any time they determine there is a risk of violence or explosive threats. When crews are dispatched to a Potentially Violent Situation (PVS), our new procedures require they don the vests and helmets prior to response.”

The equipment has been issued department-wide, and it has already been put to use. First responders from Orange County Fire Rescue recently arrived on scene in ballistic equipment to a deadly workplace shooting. “With the equipment deployed on responding crews, we were prepared to provide victims with the best chance of survival,” continued Chief Drozd.

OCFRD selected Armor Express’ HardcoreTM SU carrier which accommodates soft concealable body armor, while external plate pockets give the first responder the option of adding hard armor protection at any time. It is intended for use as an external garment—worn visibly over a uniform, for example, and consists of two primary components—the BALLISTIC PANELS and the TACTICAL CARRIER or “outer shell”. The Hardcore SU has a lightweight, low profile design with fully adjustable shoulders and waist; it is designed not to hamper the movements required while rendering first aid and extraction. The Dynamic Cummerbund System allows the user to breathe and move much more efficiently. The shoulder strap geometry offers enhanced ergonomics and the liner shell material uses 3D spacer mesh for improved heat, moisture and debris dissipation. The plate pocket offers MOLLE webbing for modularity and optional attachments.

Paired with the Hardcore SU carrier, Armor Express’ QuantumTM Level IIIA ballistic package will provide OCFRD officers with the kind of robust protection leveraged by numerous federal law enforcement agencies. The armor is ideal for firefighters and EMTs in need of a light, flexible, yet sturdy solution. Viewed as a workhorse in the industry, the Quantum is capable of stopping special threats such as the 5.7 x 28 Sporting Round (both Level II and IIIA) and the 5.7 x 28 Lead Free. It is also uniquely certified to the Department of Defense’s standards for fragmentation protection.

Additionally, OCFRD personnel will benefit from the BUSCH AMP-1 E Level IIIA helmet. This ACH/MICH-shaped helmet is made of aramid fibers in a composite matrix. It features fragmentation protection and is tested to V50 > 2130 f/s (650 m/s) 17gr. Another significant feature of the BUSCH AMP-1 E helmet from Armor Express is its uni-size capability, which will enable OCFRD to address the multiple sizing needs of its broad staff in a single solution – making it an extremely affordable option.

In related news, Chief Drozd’s proposal to establish a clear, concise, operational standard to guide fire and emergency service response to active shooter events and other violent incidents was accepted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards Council. The new Technical Committee for Cross Functional Emergency Preparedness and Response begins meeting this month. The committee will establish criteria for all components of emergency response, including ballistic equipment.

McGrath concluded, “Our work with the Orange County Fire Rescue team is a big step in Armor Express’ commitment to working more closely with the Fire & EMS markets and expanding product and service reach to agencies that are depending on personal protection more than ever before. First responders are facing increasingly dangerous environments with the rise of active shooter/mass casualty incidents. On June 12, we will be reminded of the Pulse nightclub attack and remember all those who were lost. We will also acknowledge the important lessons learned and re-affirm Armor Express’ pledge to supporting communities and the first responders who answer the calls for help. Through our continued investment in next-gen armor systems and protection technologies, we will continue to bring the peace of mind they deserve.”

www.armorexpress.com

Tags: Armor Express
Posted in Armor, Contracts, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Armor Express Launches Next-Generation Protective Solutions for the Global Fire and EMS Markets

Monday, May 22nd, 2017

Armor Express launched its comprehensive offerings for first responders at the 2017 Fire Department Instructor’s Conference

CENTRAL LAKE, MI, May 22, 2017 – Central Lake Armor Express, Inc. (“Armor Express”), a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-performance body armor solutions, announced the expansion of its advanced ballistic systems, carriers, helmets, rifle plates and other related accessories to support the growing need for personal protection by Fire and EMS officers.

“This is a significant step in our commitment to broaden product and service reach to key sectors that rely on innovative body armor solutions certified to meet the most demanding requirements. Among these sectors are Fire and EMS where now, more than ever, firefighting, rescue and medical emergency personnel are facing increasingly dangerous environments and finding themselves in harm’s way,” stated Rex McGrath, Armor Express’ Channel Manager for Fire/EMS. “Building on our successes and lessons learned in Law Enforcement, we are actively investing in R&D and next-gen systems and technologies to bring to market the highest-performing, most versatile and comfortable ballistic armor that safeguard all first responders.”

Firefighters and EMTs have long been taught to operate at a safe distance from potentially violent incidents and await word from law enforcement that the area is secured. That paradigm is now shifting with the rise of active shooter/mass casualty incidents (AS/MCI), as seen with the Columbine High, Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook Elementary, San Bernardino Inland Regional Center and Orlando nightclub attacks, as well as the World Trade Center and Boston Marathon bombings. Sadly, we are all too aware of the headlines highlighting how much our emergency officers are at risk (Firefighter Shot, Killed in Maryland; Another Seriously Wounded; New York EMT Shot and Killed by Patient). With the entry into unsecured areas known as warm zones, more departments are looking closely at body armor to protect their officers. They recognize the growing need to provide the proper equipment and training to first responders who may face ballistic or explosive threats while needing to quickly triage, treat and extricate the wounded.

Armor Express is focusing its resources on U.S.-made solutions that offer the highest level of flexibility, mobility and stopping power that today’s firefighters and EMTs need. Considering that most jurisdictions do not supply all of their first responders with armor and that budgets are limited for purchasing equipment, the Company is collaborating closely with departments to meet their core requirements. Using guidelines like that of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Armor Express has developed packaged solutions for the head and body, including Level IIIA ballistic vests, special outer carriers, Level IV hard armor plates that are capable of withstanding rifle rounds (used in more than 25 percent of active shooter incidents), and Level IIIA ballistic helmets.

Multi-compliant Ballistic Armor Protects First Responders in the Line of Fire

Among the latest products demonstrated at FDIC this year Armor Express’ advanced ballistic systems certified to the most stringent standards, including the NIJ Standard-0101.06, FBI and DEA protocols, and special threats testing.

• The FMS™ IIIA is a strong choice for any first responder. This universal and cost-effective package is designed to be robust, offering extreme stopping power in an active shooter scenario. At the same time, the armor’s lightweight construction makes it comfortable for wearers.
• The Quantum™ IIIA is another strong ballistic system utilized by numerous federal law enforcement agencies and is ideal for firefighters and EMTs in need of a light, flexible, yet sturdy solution. It is uniquely certified to the Department of Defense’s standards for frag protection.
• The Vortex™ IIIA combines strength, comfort, and performance in a single package at an incredible value. This soft ballistic can stop some of the most advanced rounds. Flexible and pliable features balanced with lightweight qualities, make it great for both concealed and tactical usage.

Versatile Carriers Meet the Demands of Today’s Volatile Environments

Armor Express launched new and enhanced outer carriers

• The Outer Carrier System – Unified Violent Incident Response (OCS-UVIR) for Fire/EMS uses alpha sizing, making it adjustable to fit multiple officers. The UVIR offers 360-degree coverage with Level II or IIIA soft ballistic armor.
• For the first responder who never really knows what threat they might face, the Hardcore FE Carrier is ideal. The external carrier’s ‘one-size-fits-most’ feature keeps purchasing costs at bay and provides soft and hard armor options in a single shell. It enables more efficient movement for triage and victim extraction.
• The redesigned Med Vest is a comfortable external vest created specifically for emergency officers. This low-profile, side-opening solution includes high-vis reflective bands for safety in low light situations and can accommodate concealable armor panels. It also features an internal front plate pocket for hard armor protection.

Additionally, AE included a Rapid Base Plate Carrier which offers a simple and modular solution for any active shooter scenario, as well as the lightweight Laser Cut Plate Carrier (LCPC), designed to fit most hard armor plates for certified to low visibility special threats.

New Hard Armor Accessories Deliver Unparalleled Lightweight Protection

Armor Express has several innovative hard armor plates and helmets (both ballistic and non-ballistic), which bring an entirely new benchmark in protection of the head and body. These will be showcased at FDIC as well.

Plates:
Notably, the Company’s Harrier III+ SA Single Curve Plate is ideal for emergency officers who require modularity, protection and size options in one package. First responders can rapidly up-armor with this plate if there’s a rifle threat while remaining agile due to its low weight. A full line of other protective rifle plates is also available.

Helmets:
A helmet will complete the ballistic protective equipment kit, including the AEX10 PASGT and AEX25 ACH helmets which provide Level IIIA protection against handgun rounds. The AMP-1 E RTF helmet is also certified to protect against fragmentation and handgun Level IIIA threats while offering the flexibility, performance and comfort options for retention and padding that reinforce end-user confidence. In addition, the AMH-2 SAR (non-ballistic) helmet offers multi-impact protection for search and rescue applications.

For more information on Armor Express’ protective solutions for the FIRE and EMS markets, please visit bit.ly/AE_Fire_EMS.

McGrath continued, “We were very excited to debut Armor Express’ cutting-edge protective wear for the Fire/EMS community at FDIC 2017. Our team looks forward to engaging with customers and distribution partners to drive greater innovation in soft and hard armor systems that save lives. We have an incredible product lineup which features our strongest and lightest ballistic packages; most adaptable carriers; and hard armor solutions that deliver critical protection, performance and comfort benefits that agencies need and can afford. The public expects our firefighters and EMTs to help in a crucial time of need; the appropriate training with law enforcement as well as wearing body armor will help emergency responders to meet this expectation.”

About Armor Express
Armor Express is a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-performance body armor systems. Founded in 2005, the Company has grown to become one of the largest providers of soft and hard armor products and accessories, serving the domestic and Federal law enforcement market, U.S Military and America’s allies around the world. Through its strategic partnerships with technology innovators and its unwavering commitment to advance research & development, the Company’s customers benefit from state-of-the-art protective solutions and best-in-class service. For more information, please visit www.armorexpress.com.

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Posted in Armor, Industry, Press Release | 1 Comment »

VPAM-Certified Ballistic Helmets Now Available from Armor Express via Strategic Partnership with Busch PROtective

Wednesday, February 8th, 2017

New helmets represent the ultimate breakthrough in ballistic science and design, exceeding requirements for law enforcement, anti-terror and special ops units across the Americas

CENTRAL LAKE, MI, February 6, 2017 – Central Lake Armor Express, Inc. (“Armor Express”), a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-performance body armor solutions, announced today that the Company has entered an exclusive distribution agreement with Germany’s Busch PROtective, to market its revolutionary ballistic helmets certified to the VPAM standard. Building on Armor Express’ strong heritage in innovation, these latest ballistic helmets are now commercially available to law enforcement officers across the Americas (North, South and Central America), who stand to benefit from an unprecedented level of protection.

“The new VPAM-certified ballistic helmets surpass current NIJ helmet testing levels of performance, creating an entirely new benchmark in head protection for today’s officers,” stated Steve Murphy, Tactical Channel Manager, Armor Express. “Working with the Busch PROtective team, we have determined the very best ballistic material and capabilities typically utilized by the most elite police and military allies around the world, were also the very best solutions for our law enforcement officers here in the U.S. We’re extremely excited about this partnership, being the first licensed distributor in North America to deliver these cutting-edge helmets to the men and women who deserve the highest-performing head protection on the market. In addition to VPAM-certification, the helmets have been independently tested against NIJ .06 Level IIIA threats, as well as special threats, surpassing some of the most stringent requirements of the NIJ Standard.”

Certified to VPAM, the Gold Standard of ballistic testing within Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the advanced helmets bring first rate protection to tactical law enforcement, anti-terror and specialized police officers who may be exposed to close quarter combat and increased risk of being shot within the head region. The AMP-1TP specifically, is the lightest and first composite (non-metal) helmet to achieve the certification through independent testing labs both in Europe and the U.S. The helmet is constructed of a multi-layered aramid composite, using a patented EBSP method – a unique production technique that creates elite ballistic capabilities previously attainable only in Titanium helmets.

Weighing an average of 3.6 pounds, the AMP-1TP is capable of stopping ballistic threats as close as .78” from the edge and multiple shots on a small surface area. The increased edge and multi-impact capabilities enhance the helmet’s protective area by up to 50%, compared to standard ballistic helmets. For officers at risk of taking multiple hits at close range, another key protective element is the helmet’s ability to transfer and dissipate energy around the helmet’s shell, thereby reducing back-face deformation/blunt force trauma. VPAM’s extremely high testing requirements measure back-face deformation, ensuring when the helmet is hit by an incoming round, there is minimal energy transferred from the helmet shell to the user’s head.

Further, the AMP-1TP offers high fragmentation protection of more than 2,034 f/s, in accordance with STANAG 2920, the NATO testing standards for military ballistics protection and armor.

Commenting on today’s news, Matt Davis, President and Chief Executive Officer, Armor Express, stated, “We believe this is a disruptive technology in the marketplace that will transform the way the industry has addressed protection of officers in one of the most critical areas of their body – the head – particularly when this region comes under greater threat in certain hostile environments. It’s not only about stopping bullets; we looked extensively to find the right solution that safeguards against trauma to the head, and with Busch helmets, we believe we have found the best helmet technology the industry has seen.”

See how the VPAM-certified AMP-1TP helmet with patented EBSP technology (right) stacks up against a standard IIIA style ballistic helmet (left). Watch the comparison of three helmets on bullet impact by visiting www.armorexpress.com/busch.

Compared to other test standards, the VPAM protocol uses a more realistic ballistic testing aspect for close quarter combat threats. Unfortunately, most helmets used today by law enforcement and first response teams are more suited for military operations.

“We are thrilled to have Armor Express as our partner, as they have one of the strongest distribution networks throughout North America. Most importantly, they are a leader in innovation and have earned the trust of the law enforcement community,” stated Shammass Khan, International Sales Director, Busch PROtective. Together, I believe we will do great things and provide the most essential head protection that officers deserve.”

All helmets come with a unique rail-system with speed-system technology, advanced protective padding system certified to the EN 397 (impact/shock attenuation standard), wheel dial for ultimate uni-sizing flexibility, and protective bag. The ‘uni-size’ feature is especially instrumental, helping LE departments with typical limited budgets to remove the cost of having to purchase multiple units based on individual fit.

The unique rail-system and its speed-system connector point (SSCP) gives the user even more tactical and modular protective capability. The modular protective visors (Impact, Fragmentation, 9mm/44Mag) can be added/removed from the helmet within seconds, without ever having to take off the helmet – providing the benefit of always being protected. Additional accessories include the NVG 3-hole shroud, helmet cover (black or green color), helmet Velcro kit, helmet counter weight kit, visor protective cover, and side-rail adaptor. The AMP-1TP helmet comes in black, green and sand colors.

www.armorexpress.com/busch

Tags: Armor Express, Busch PROtective, VPAM
Posted in Helmets, International, Press Release | 5 Comments »

Armor Express Announces Two Executive Appointments in Support of the Company’s Federal Law Enforcement Market Expansion Initiatives

Thursday, December 1st, 2016

CENTRAL LAKE, Mich., Nov. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — Central Lake Armor Express, Inc. (“Armor Express”), a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-performance body armor solutions, announced today two strategic hires as the Company continues to expand its presence in the Federal Law Enforcement market. These hires follow the Armor Express’ previously announced $94 million Indefinite Delivery / Indefinite Quantity contract award with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Joining Armor Express as the new Director of Federal Sales is industry veteran David Jones. He has been brought onboard to lead the Company’s Federal Sales initiatives, which include sales strategy, client management and overall market expansion programs. Mr. Jones joins the Company after a distinguished 20-year career, having most recently served as Sales Director for Saxon Security, Inc. In this position, he was responsible for product marketing and sales, client service and channel management, working with prestigious customers including the U.S. Secret Service, FBI SWAT, FBI Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF), Amtrak Police Special Operations, HIDTA (U.S. Federal Drug Task Force), and numerous police departments. Previously, Mr. Jones held the position of Sales Manager, Law Enforcement at Hesco Group, where he oversaw sales of hard armor products to both U.S. and Canadian Law Enforcement. Earlier in his career, he was the Business Development Manager at ALM Tech Corporation, responsible for setting sales and distribution strategies and securing strategic partnerships in support of the Company’s Federal, domestic law enforcement and Special Forces business units. Mr. Jones is a graduate of Penn State University, with a B.S. in Finance.

Additionally, the Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Jake Hayes as Federal Sales Manager. He will be responsible for developing and servicing Federal agency contracts and working with the team to expand the Company’s reach. Before assuming this role, Mr. Hayes served as Sales Specialist for the Federal Government market at Code 3, Inc., where he oversaw Government Services Agency (GSA) contracts and worked with procurement agents from various agencies, including the FBI, CIA, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Marshals, DEA, National Park Service, NASA, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and U.S. Air Force. He also held sales management positions with Blue Eagle Investigations, One Call Care Management and Northstar Alarm Services. Mr. Hayes received his B.S. in Marketing from Eastern Illinois University.
Commenting on these appointments and the Company’s continued growth initiatives, Scott Wyatt, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, stated, “On behalf of our team, I would like to welcome both David and Jake to Armor Express. They both bring extensive experience servicing and protecting the Federal law enforcement community and have deep-seated relationships that will serve our Company and our customers well. These hires are especially meaningful given the timing, as we have recently expanded our customer base and are currently developing new body armor systems designed specifically for Federal officers. Knowing agency requirements and being in position to develop solutions that address their specific needs is paramount to our product development initiatives and positions us well for future opportunities.”
As federal agencies across the country seek to advance their capabilities, Armor Express has directed its resources to developing new and enhanced ballistic packages, carrier designs, hard armor plates, and accessories. This incorporates the most innovative technologies and industry best standards to better protect and enable officers to perform their jobs at the most optimal level. Thousands of federal agents nationwide have depended on Armor Express’ solutions, including those from the U.S. Marshals, Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA), U.S. Capitol Police (USCP), Office of Inspector General (OIG), U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. National Park Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

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Armor Express Awarded Prestigious $93.8 Million ID/IQ Contract with the Department of Homeland Security

Wednesday, November 23rd, 2016

Thousands of officers from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, TSA, Federal Protective Service, U.S. Coast Guard, and FEMA to benefit from the most advanced body armor solutions

CENTRAL LAKE, Mich., Nov. 17, 2016/PRNewswire/ — Central Lake Armor Express, Inc. (“Armor Express”), a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-performance body armor solutions, is proud to announce that the Company has been awarded a seven-year, $93.8 million Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Under the terms of the contract (Solicitation #: HSBP1016R0004), Armor Express will provide its cutting-edge Razor™ Level IIIA ballistic system, along with four carriers specifically designed to support DHS requirements. Over 90,000 officers from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Federal Protective Service, U.S. Coast Guard, and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) stand to benefit from this latest DHS award.

“This is a major win for Armor Express and we are truly honored to serve one of the finest and most comprehensive federal departments in the world,” stated Matt Davis, President and Chief Executive Officer of Armor Express. “We have collaborated with a number of federal agencies over the years, providing a range of concealable and tactical armor solutions to officers who require high-performance and flexible coverage to do their jobs effectively and in the safest way. This latest award is another testament to the quality of our products and the DHS’ trust in our industry-proven solutions.”

Created in response to the September 11 attacks, the Department of Homeland Security’s primary responsibility is safeguarding the nation from the many threats it faces. As the third largest Cabinet department, after the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, the DHS requires the dedication of more than 240,000 officers in roles that range from anti-terrorism to aviation and border security, immigration and customs, cybersecurity, and disaster prevention and management.

The DHS was looking to outfit its federal officers with customized concealable and tactical carriers, integrated with NIJ 0101.06 certified, Level IIIA ballistics to create the most advanced, comfortable and flexible system to meet agency requirements. Armor Express was selected as one of three body armor suppliers to fulfill the needs of the DHS-specified carrier design. Based on extensive and stringent criteria, the Company was chosen for its ballistic performance, design and engineering specifications, overall reliability, and past performance.

The Razor™ Ballistic System has been tested to the most strenuous requirements, including the NIJ 0101.06 certification, FBI Protocol, DEA Frag Standards, as well as numerous critical special threats. It is designed around revolutionary fiber technology including FMT Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene from DSM Dyneema® and TWARON Microfilament® Aramid from Teijin. The carrier, which is available in both male and female versions, provides the ultimate in concealability and flexibility, offering a lightweight ballistic package for officers and agents who require incredible protection under the most extreme environments.

Thousands of federal law enforcement officers across the country rely on Armor Express’ solutions, many of them from the largest and most prestigious agencies in the world. Federal departments Armor Express has served include the U.S. Marshals, U.S. Capitol Police (USCP), Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA), Office of Inspector General (OIG), U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. National Park Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, among others.

Mr. Davis continued, “We are extremely proud to serve the courageous officers and first responders at the Department of Homeland Security, and at large. Our entire team remains committed to advancing protective solutions, whether soft or hard armor, as the products we make, save lives. Our technology partners, including DSM and Teijin have been instrumental in advancing ballistic science and we commend them for their continued commitment to officer safety. As we move forward, we see significant opportunities to continue to drive innovation and further expand our offerings and reach. Providing end-users with peace-of-mind and bringing them home safe to their families remains our #1 priority.”

www.armorexpress.com

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Armor Express Hosts Saves Retreat at Northern Michigan Headquarters

Sunday, August 21st, 2016

CENTRAL LAKE, MI – Six Police Officers and their families, which credit Armor Express body armor for saving their lives from death or serious injury, have descended upon Central Lake, Michigan to partake in a company sponsored Saves Retreat.

The Saves Retreat kicked off Thursday at the company’s global headquarters, announced Matt Davis, CEO and President of Armor Express. “We view our Saves as the true life-blood of our company,” explained Matt. “This retreat gives us the opportunity to give a little back to these heroes that sacrifice so much to protect everyday citizens.”

The company has a formal Saves Program which tracks those Officers who have been positively impacted by the protective qualities of their products. Heading up the program is Armor Express Save Lt. Brian Murphy, who was the first responding Officer to the 2012 Sikh Temple massacre in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. Brian was shot 15 times during the altercation with the assailant. His body armor absorbed 3 of the rounds.

“Only these Officers and their families know exactly what they have gone through. By bringing them together we want them to know that they aren’t alone. They form life long bonds and friendships which are part of the healing process,” noted Brian.

“What these families go through is all too often taken for granted. These guys are true heroes but little focus is given to their own personal healing. We try to foster an environment where that healing can take place,” added Davis.

During the retreat the families have an opportunity to tour the Armor Express facilities, meet the employees, and share their life saving stories. Following the tour the company is hosted a picnic for all the Save Families and employees as a gesture of gratitude.

Davis continued, “The Saves wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the hard work of our employees. They take a lot of pride in what they do and they deserve a lot of thanks.”

After that, the group moved to a home on Torch Lake which was donated for their use by a generous family from Central Lake. For the next three days they have the opportunity to relax, build relationships and enjoy some camaraderie.

www.armorexpress.com

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SHOT Show – Armor Express

Monday, January 26th, 2015

As I meandered through the halls of SHOT Show 2015, the aesthetic of the Raven carrier from Armor Express caught my eye. The refer to the PALS compatible triangle-shaped laser cuts as Trilogrid. It also features a built-in kangaroo pocket as well as ambidextrous horizontal knife sleeve. The padded shoulders are nonskid and incorporate utility ports for comms. Additionally, the best is lined with 3d spacer mesh.

www.armorexpress.com

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Posted in Armor, SHOT Show | 6 Comments »