Avon Technologies unveils multi-million pound defence renewal contract with Thales

Wiltshire-based Avon Technologies said it had renewed a multi-million pound contract with Thales UK to support a critical UK defence programme.

The deal was with the Melksham-based firm's unit Avon Protection - the respiratory and integrated protection systems business.

Avon has supplied this capability to Thales for over a decade and under the new multi-year contract renewal valued at up to £10 million Avon Protection will continue to supply vital capability for the defence of the UK over the next six years.

Steve Elwell, president of Avon Protection, said the award was "strategically important".

"It demonstrates our contribution to the overall health and resilience of the UK defence industrial base.

"We look forward to continuing to provide the UK with a world-leading sovereign capability from our facility in Melksham, whilst continuing to work on new and innovative technologies that defend our nation."

Avon Protection CEO Jos Sclater added: "This contract renewal recognises the important role that Avon Protection together with other primes and SMEs provide in delivering vital capability to defend our nation."

Avon Technologies makes military helmets, gas masks and respiratory protection for fire, military and law enforcement.

It trades through two business units - Avon Protection - the respiratory and integrated protection systems business and Team Wendy - the helmet systems business.