STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. -- General Dynamics Land Systems today was awarded a $1.5 billion multi-year contract to deliver 580 M1A2 Abrams upgrade tanks. The contract also includes an option for 20 additional tanks which can be exercised by April 2001. The period of performance is October 1996 through July 2001. This is a follow-on award to the Phase I, $417 million, 206 vehicle contract awarded September 1994 which is complete in September of this year.

This contract secures a production rate of 120 tanks per year that is critical to protecting America's tank industrial base. This work will be performed by existing General Dynamics employees at plants in Lima, Ohio; Scranton, Pennsylvania; Sterling Heights, Warren, and Muskegon, Michigan; Tallahassee, Florida; and Anniston, Alabama.

General Dynamics Land Systems is a world leader in the development, production, integration, and support of armor vehicles and electronic systems. Land Systems builds main battle tanks, amphibious assault vehicles, bridge launchers, reconnaissance vehicles, engines, and radio systems for military forces worldwide. It is the only U.S. military contractor currently providing command, control, and communications systems developed for and integrated on armored combat vehicles.

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LS-96-13

7-12-96