General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems and Smith & Wesson Holding Corp. Partner on Modular Handgun System

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Nov. 24, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems and Smith & Wesson Holding Corp. are partnering to pursue the U.S. Army's Modular Handgun System (MHS) solicitation to replace the M9 standard Army sidearm.

The strategic partnership's Modular Handgun System will be based on the Smith & Wesson M&P Polymer Pistol platform. Designed with a reinforced polymer chassis, superior ergonomics, ambidextrous controls, and proven safety features, the M&P is used by U.S. and law enforcement agencies worldwide.  The M&P's features make it well suited for the MHS requirement by providing sidearms that exceed the military's expectations for a future modular handgun in terms of performance, reliability and durability. The M&P pistol has been in production since 2005.

"This partnership combines General Dynamics' proven legacy in manufacturing military armaments with Smith & Wesson's extensive experience in designing and manufacturing firearms for commercial applications," said Tim McAuliffe, vice president and general manager of medium caliber ammunition and weapons for General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems. "General Dynamics' extensive background in winning and managing military contracts brings proven leadership to the venture and by joining together, we will use our combined knowledge and expertise to bring this unique capability to the U.S. military to better equip the warfighter."

Smith & Wesson President and CEO, James Debney, said, "The strategic partnership between our two companies provides us with a tremendous opportunity to support our military with a state-of-the-art sidearm, namely our M&P pistol. General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems brings us a wealth of experience and resource in federal government contracting and that capability is an ideal match with our knowledge in handgun manufacturing technology.  We look forward to working together to pursue this exciting opportunity to support our military."

The Army's draft MHS solicitation identifies design and performance requirements for a new modular handgun system that can be easily adjusted to fit all hand sizes and is optimized for improved gun, ammunition and magazine performance. The Army's stated plan is to commence the competition in January 2015, with delivery of the first new handgun systems in 2017.

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems manufactures large-, medium- and small-caliber direct and indirect-fire munitions; and is a leader in the development and production of lightweight tactical vehicles, weapons and armament systems. The company designs and produces shaped charge and penetrator warheads; and manufactures precision metal components for missiles, rockets and composite structures for the commercial, aerospace and defense markets. The company also produces propellants and non-lethal and force-protection products. More information about General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), is available at www.gd-ots.com.

Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of quality firearms, related products and training to the consumer, law enforcement, and military markets. The company's brands include Smith & Wesson®, M&P® and Thompson/Center Arms™. Smith & Wesson facilities are located in Massachusetts and Maine.  For more information on Smith & Wesson, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com.

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SOURCE General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems

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