M53A1 Front

Avon Rubber p.l.c. is pleased to announce that Avon Protection has been awarded a sole source contract to supply the U.S. Department of Defense ("DOD") with the M53A1 mask and powered air system and related accessories. The framework contract, which also covers additional Avon Protection products, including the ST54 self-contained breathing apparatus, has a maximum value of $246 million over a duration of up to 7 years, being a five-year base period plus two further one-year extension periods.

Avon Protection anticipates receiving the first order under this contract shortly, with deliveries expected to commence in the second half of the current 2019 financial year (ending 30 September 2019). As outlined in the Group’s 2018 final results announcement, the first order will contribute to our expected Military revenues for the 2019 financial year.

Commenting, Paul McDonald, Chief Executive Officer, said:

“This is another significant, multi-year contract for Avon Protection and demonstrates our ongoing focus on technological excellence and innovation leadership as we continue to deliver against our growth strategy.

“Together with the M69 aircrew mask contract announced at the beginning of the year, this underpins our medium term outlook and provides good visibility of revenues going forward.

“We continue to pursue a number of other identified opportunities with the DOD and Rest of World Military customers, which give us further confidence in the Group’s prospects.”