Rheinmetall Defence Tightens Up U.S. Business Structure

STAFFORD, Va., Feb. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Rheinmetall Defence is pleased to announce the legal transference of the Mk281 green training ammunition contract from Rheinmetall Waffe Muntion GmbH in Germany (RWM) to American Rheinmetall Munitions (ARM) in the United States.  The U.S. Marine Corps will award future Mk281 contracts directly to ARM.  This action will bring about an accurate perception of ARM's advanced munitions business structure and the breadth of U.S. manufacturing capabilities.

With headquarters in Stafford, Virginia, ARM currently oversees the manufacturing of 40mm training cartridges at Rheinmetall's new facility in Camden, Arkansas.  The facility was planned through the Ouachita Partnership for Economic Development and the Arkansas Department of Economic Development to protect and stimulate surrounding communities.

Adhering to the Department of Defense's (DoD) economic directive to protect and stimulate the U.S. industrial base, ARM has also demonstrated sensitivity towards small businesses.  Contract awards for Mk281 components went to Greystone Corporation in Rhode Island and AK Stamping Company, Inc. in New Jersey.  Teaming partners include Cyalume Technologies in Massachusetts and Spectra Technologies, Llc. in Arkansas.  Other small business awards are expected with the M1110, which will also be manufactured in Camden.

On a federal level, 40mm "green ammo" addresses the DoD and Environmental Protection Agency's overlapping missions to resolve costly and dangerous Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) and perchlorate leaching, while providing War-fighters with the best technology industry can offer.

Mk281 and M1110 contain a non-toxic chemiluscent mixture opposed to a toxic potassium perchlorate flash-bang mixture.  Fired projectiles can be stepped on, rolled over, picked up or excavated without the risk of bodily harm.  The Non-Dud-Producing solution also enables 24/7 training in dry weather to mimic realistic battle scenarios.  The Mk281 is a 40mm high-velocity training cartridge for the MK19 and MK47 grenade machine guns.  The low-velocity 40mm M1110 is for the M203, MK13, M79 and XM320 grenade launchers.  Both cartridges are also easier on the ears.

American Rheinmetall Munitions (ARM), Inc. headquarters is located in Stafford, Virginia.  The production facility is located in Camden, Arkansas.  ARM is committed to continued growth by means of strategic teaming, exceptional supply-chain management, advanced production techniques, and alignment with Department of Defense's initiatives to provide the best for War-fighters.

SOURCE American Rheinmetall Munitions