07:26 GMT, April 13, 2009 PHOENIX | BAE Systems has received a $35.3 million award to produce and deliver 75,000 Outer Tactical Vests (OTVs) from the Defense Logistics Agency. Contract requirements will be carried out at BAE Systems facilities in Jefferson City and Grainger County, Tennessee.

“BAE Systems' Tennessee operations produce products like the OTV, as well as deliver the latest technology in Improved Outer Tactical Vests to our Armed Forces around the globe,” said Joe Coltman, vice president of Personnel Protection Systems for BAE Systems.

Production for this contract includes the OTV carrier, ballistic inserts, yoke collar, throat protector and groin protector. The OTV, when combined with Small Arms Protective Insert (SAPI) plates, provides advanced protection against fragments from mines, grenades, mortar shells, artillery fire and rifle projectiles.

“The new BAE Systems contract will maintain tactical vest production at its Jefferson City and Grainger County facilities and allow Tennessee's strong work force to continue to help protect our soldiers,” said Congressman Zach Wamp.

BAE Systems' Personnel Protection Systems has manufactured more than 330,000 OTVs since the product's inception in 2003. Over 155,000 Improved Outer Tactical Vests, an advanced version of the OTV fielded to the U.S. Army, have been manufactured by BAE Systems to date. Deliveries for the OTV are scheduled for completion within 2009.

BAE Systems employs nearly 700 employees at its soft armor facilities, part of BAE Systems' Security & Survivability Systems line of business, a technology leader in protective, survivability and security products.