Avon Protection has received an order for 166,623 M50 respiratory protection mask systems from the US Department of Defense (DoD).
With over 1,500,000 Avon M50 mask systems delivered to date to US military personnel, Avon is the dominant supplier of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) respiratory protection masks to the US military.
“We are proud that the US DoD continues to choose Avon to provide the best CBRN protective equipment for their troops," Gary Dunn VP Business Development at Avon Protection said.
"The M50 mask system delivers protection against the changing threat environment we now have – from battlefield concentrations of CB agents, through to toxic industrial materials, toxic chemicals and particulate matter.”
“The streamlined design offers a high degree of flexibility and comfort for extended use. The unique twin low-profile filters reduce breathing resistance and improve weapon sighting and weight distribution, all of which enable the troops to perform optimally in their roles," Dunn said.
The M50 mask is part of the 50 series family of masks that includes the C50 and FM53. The FM53 is in service with the ADF and many Australian Police tactical groups and the C50 is widely in service with Police and Corrections. The NZDF is also a user of the FM53. Owen International provides servicing and through life support in Australia.
50 series masks are offered as part of the GHD bid for Land 2110. GHD are priming an integrated project team of Australian owned companies, providing established long term CBRN supply and support capabilities.
Lockheed Martin Australia and Saab Australia are thought to be the other bidders seeking to be prime contractor for Land 2110. The program is sub-divided into five pillars covering: Personel Protective Equipment (PPE); Protection and Monitoring; Medical; Decontamination; and Warning and Reporting software systems.
The downselect is expected imminently.