ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., April 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems has been awarded a $3 million contract by the U.S. Marine Corps System Command (MARCORSYSCOM) for a technology demonstration (TD) and evaluation of a new hardware's ability to meet the program requirements for the Mission Payload Module -- Non-Lethal Weapon System (MPM-NLWS).  A full-and-open competition will follow the initial technology demonstration phase of this program.

Called the Medusa Weapon System, the new system -- developed by General Dynamics with its subcontractor and partner, ATK Aerospace Systems -- will adapt advanced 66mm grenade and launcher technology to provide improved counter-personnel and non-lethal capabilities that temporarily incapacitate targets through intense light, sound and pressure stimuli.

The Medusa's articulated launcher and fire control system fires a new non-lethal grenade munition with electronic, in-tube, range-programmable fuzing that provides precision placement of the non-lethal effect. The system will provide longer range, greater area coverage, extended duration, lower risk of permanent injury and better scalability of effects over current non-lethal weapon systems. The Medusa system is also capable of launching the current inventory of 66mm non-lethal and obscuration-effect grenades and will be integrated onto the Marine Corps Transparent Armor Gun Shield (MCTAGS), ballistic-glass shields which are used to protect service members in close urban environments.

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), is a world leader in the manufacture of large-, medium- and small-caliber direct and indirect-fire munitions, shaped charge warheads and propellants.  It also manufactures precision metal components; and aerostructures in support of the tactical missile industry. More information on General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical is available online at www.gd-ots.com.

General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 91,200 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.generaldynamics.com.

SOURCE General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems

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