On Wednesday, the Department of Defense announced its second sizable body armor order in three days, bringing the total amount of money spent on "tactical vests" to more than $157 million (so far) this week.
Wednesday's award went to British defense contractor BAE Systems (BAES.Y 2.65%) and was valued at $78.3 million. In it, the Pentagon ordered BAE to supply "improved outer tactical vests and individual repair kits" (i.e., body armor) for use by the U.S. Army and Air Force.
This followed a Monday announcement, in which the Pentagon awarded a similar "contract modification" to privately held Protective Products Enterprises, directing that company to supply $79.5 million worth of improved outer tactical vests and "components" -- again, body armor and, again, for use by the U.S. Army and Air Force.
Both contracts are expected to be completed by Feb. 27, 2014.
